Cairns Attractions - Things to see and do in Tropical Far North Queensland, Australia   Cairns - Tropical Far North Queensland - Australia

The Curtain Fig Tree Cairns, Australia

Curtain Fig TreeIt may not have the most exotic name in the world, and it may not send tingles to your toes with the thought of making a visit to this tree, but hey, we wouldn't be listing it on this website if we didn't think it was worth a mention.

In fact, it's worth more than a mention. This is the most amazing tree you are ever likely to see. It is a picture of a century of natural history – a unique example of nature's unpredictability and power.

The fig tree is from the strangler fig species Ficus virens. The curtain effect results from one tree leaning against another tree on a 45-degree angle. The strangler vine then grew along the oblique angle of the leaning tree, dangling 15 metres to the ground to create the curtain affect.

A wooden boardwalk surrounds the tree so you can see it on any angle. There is also a large photo-taking platform, so don't forget to bring your camera. An information board is present at the site to explain the origins of the tree.

As one of the largest trees in North Queensland, the Curtain Fig Tree is fascinating and unusual. If you're in the Atherton Tablelands, make sure you stop by an have a look.

How to get to the Curtain Fig Tree

The tree is located just outside the small township of Yungaburra on the Atherton Tablelands. From Yungaburra, head towards Atherton for one kilometre and follow the sign on the left side of the road towards the tree. A short drive along this narrow road will take you to a small car park.
From here, there is a 50-meter walk to the tree along a wooden boardwalk.

When staying on the Atherton Tablelands

You will find nowhere more beautiful and serene then Rivers Edge Rainforest Retreat Holiday Home. Secreted away from the world on three acres of Johnson River frontage, pristine rainforest.