In short
- Tour tickets start from around $135 AUD for self-drive options.
- Tours with hotel transfers cost up to $179 AUD.
- An additional $20 to $30 AUD river levy is payable on the day.
In this article
Barron River rafting prices depend on your transport choice. You can save money by driving to the meeting point, or pay extra for the convenience of hotel transfers.
How much does a Barron River rafting tour cost?
Tour prices generally range from $135 to $179 AUD per person.
Prices vary based on your chosen transport options. These are starting prices and they change depending on the booking platform.
What is the mandatory river levy?
You must pay an Environmental Management Charge or river levy of $20 to $30 AUD per person.
This fee is paid directly to the operator on the day of your tour. Bring money or a card to cover this cost. It is never included in your base ticket price.


Is it cheaper to self-drive?
Yes, self-drive tours are usually cheaper, ranging from $135 to $158 AUD.
You will drive yourself to the Lake Placid meeting point in Caravonica. Parking at Lake Placid is free. From there, you board the operator's bus to enter the gorge.
How much are tours with hotel transfers?
Tours including hotel transfers cost around $179 AUD.
These tours pick you up from Cairns or the Northern Beaches. The drive takes 20 to 30 minutes. It offers a convenient option if you do not have a rental car.

Are combo tickets available?
Yes, combo tours package rafting with other activities for a single price.
For example, you can combine morning rainforest river tubing with afternoon white water rafting. Combo ticket prices start from $151.13 AUD, though prices change.
What extras might I need to pay for?
You may want to budget for souvenir photos and shoe hire.
Operators sell photo packages at the end of the day. If you do not have secure footwear with a heel strap, you can hire shoes on site for an extra fee.

Questions travellers ask
Do kids get cheaper tickets?
The standard minimum age is 12 years. You will generally pay the standard ticket price for anyone aged 12 and over.
Is the river levy included in the ticket price?
No, the $20 to $30 AUD river levy is normally paid on the day of the tour.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Most tours offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.


