Ellinjaa Falls Queensland is an easily accessible and spectacular waterfall located on the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit, on the edge of Wooroonooran National Park. This waterfall requires only a very short walk and offers arguably one of the most impressive falls around Cairns and the Tropical North.
Looking for some epic waterfalls near Cairns and the Queensland Tablelands? If you’re planning on heading to Millaa Millaa, I’d highly suggest not skipping Ellinjaa Falls.
In many ways, Ellinjaa Falls is a more impressive waterfall than the more popular Millaa Millaa. For those of you that prefer more of a natural vibe when exploring waterfalls, you’ll probably also enjoy Ellinjaa Falls more.
In this guide, I’ll detail how to get to Ellinjaa Falls, even if you’re not already on the Waterfall Circuit. You’ll also find some useful tips and recommendations, as well as some photos of Ellinjaa Falls to inspire your visit.
Enjoy!
Where is Ellinjaa Falls?
Ellinjaa Falls is located on the 17 kilometre Waterfall Circuit along Theresa Creek Road in the Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland.
You’ll find Ellinjaa Falls in a dense pocket of rainforest neighbouring the Wooroonooran National Park. There are signs and even a large car park next to the short waterfall track.
ALSO NEARBY: WINDIN FALLS (INFINITY POOL WATERFALL) & NANDROYA FALLS (EPIC WATERFALL HIKE)
How to get to Ellinja Falls
Ellinjaa Falls and the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit is located approximately 104 KM (1 hour 40 minutes) drive from Cairns CBD. There are two options to get here, either by driving yourself or booking a waterfall tour to Millaa Millaa.
Option 1: Drive From Cairns
In my opinion, the best way to experience Cairns and the Tropical Far North is to have your own car and explore. For easy directions, plug in “Ellinjaa Falls” or “Theresa Creek Road” to Google Maps.
From Cairns, you’ll need to head south on the Bruce Highway towards Gordonvale. Once you approach the obvious Walsh’s Pyramid, look out for signs to Atherton Tablelands over Gillies Range Road.
Follow this winding road all the way up to the Tablelands, pass the crater lakes and continue following signs south to “Millaa Millaa“, just passed Malanda. Theresa Creek Road (the Waterfall Circuit Road) is just a minute or so from the small township. There are very detailed signs to each waterfall on this road, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding Ellinjaa Waterfall.
If you’re looking for a cheap car rental deal in Cairns or anywhere else in Queensland, I’d recommend checking out RentalCars.com. This is a “car rental search engine” that works similarly to Skyscanner, but for cars instead of flights.
Option 2: Waterfall Tour From Cairns
I understand that many people would prefer to jump on a tour bus and meet some people rather than driving yourself. Unfortunately, there is only one tour that I could find in the entire region that stops by Ellinjaa Falls – and it’s a set price for groups of up to 10.
This might be a good idea if you can gather some friends at the hostel or if you’re visiting Cairns with family or in a group.
For solo travelers and couples, you’ll either need to rent a car or consider some of these alternative waterfall tours that include stops at the equally impressive Dinner Falls, Josephine Falls, Millaa Millaa Falls and more (listed below).
| Tour | Price | What’s Included |
| Most-booked waterfall tour from Cairns | $115 | Josephine Falls, Millaa Millaa, Dinner Falls, Crater Lakes |
| Cheapest Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Tour | $107 | Josephine Falls, Millaa Millaa, Dinner Falls, Curtain Fig Tree |
| 2D1N Waterfall and Atherton Camping | $251 | Barron Falls, Lake Eacham, Overnight Camping, Peterson Creek (platypus viewing), Curtain Fig Tree, Josephine Falls |
What to Expect at Ellinjaa Falls Queensland
Ellinjaa Falls waterfall is an approximately 12 metre cascading waterfall which tumbles down a wide, vertical face at the base of a dense rainforest valley.
Below the waterfall is a blue-tinted pool that is deep enough to swim in, but don’t expect to be fully submerged.
The freshwater creeks that flow from the waterfall is home to one of Australia’s most iconic animals; the platypus. So, make sure to keep quiet as you approach and see if you can spot any swimming or sitting on the banks.
There is also a small ledge that you can crawl up on behind the waterfall to get some of the best vantage points.
Keep an eye out for the wandering roosters and chickens that roam around the car park begging for food.
Ellinjaa Waterfall Walk
The walk down to Ellinjaa Falls from the car park is only about 200M long and will only take a few minutes of downhill walking. The path is sealed the entire way, making it really accessible and easy to get to.
I’d recommend visiting Ellinjaa Falls early in the morning to avoid the inevitable crowds on this popular and easily accessible waterfall circuit.
The Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit
Ellinjaa Falls is part of the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit. The other two waterfalls are Millaa Millaa and Zillie Falls.
I’ve written separate guides for each waterfall with photos so you know what to expect at each. Alternatively, check out my guide to the entire waterfall circuit instead.
Zillie Falls Millaa Millaa Falls
Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay
Planning a trip to Cairns and wondering where to base yourself? Below I’ve listed some of the best options near Cairns Esplanade. I’ve also written a comprehensive accommodation guide to Cairns, so make sure to check that out too before you book!
Also, if you’re looking to stay in Port Douglas, I’ve got some tips on finding great accommodation deals there too.
LUXURY RESORT WITHOUT THE PRICE TAG – Rydges Resort
This hotel offers the best bang-for-buck. In terms of an epic stay for a decent price! The location is perfect, close to the esplanade and features include three swimming pools, two tennis courts, a jacuzzi, a fitness centre and even an award-winning restaurant.
Check price and availability for your dates
Best 5-Star Luxury Without the Price Tag: Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
If luxury and location are what you’re after, you can’t beat the Pullman. It’s rated Cairns’ best hotel and features restaurants, a pool, live music gigs and even a casino! If nightlife is your thing, don’t go past this one.
Check price & availability at Pullman
Stay on the islands: Fitzroy Island Resort
If you’d rather sleep out on one of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Islands, look no further than the Fitzroy Island Resort. While you can get out here on a day trip, I highly recommend spending the night so you get more time to explore the reef, coral beaches and rainforest walking trails.
Review: What it’s like to Stay on Fitzroy
Check price & availability at Fitzroy Island resort
Best Budget Hostel With a Pool – Gilligan’s Backpackers
The best backpacker option for a great vibe in Cairns is Gilligan’s Backpackers. That’s because this one has a swimming pool, AC, a complete kitchen and a great common area to meet other travellers.
Check price & availability at Gilligan’s
CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF BEST HOSTEL AND HOTEL DEALS IN CAIRNS
More Cairns and Tropical North Waterfalls
That wraps up this quick guide to visiting Ellinjaa Falls on the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit. For more waterfalls around Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, make sure to read my comprehensive waterfall guide. Otherwise, check out the individual blog posts for some nearby waterfalls in the list below.
Furthermore, if you’re looking for more things to do in Cairns and the surrounding area, check out this travel guide to the Best Things to Do in Cairns.
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