Kuranda Scenic Railway & Rainforest Skyrail | Down Under Tours
Departure Times
Pricing Options
Embark on a 9-hour scenic adventure through Barron Gorge’s ancient and World Heritage-listed rainforest via a century-old railway and spend the day exploring the charming and historic township of Kuranda.
- Careen through Kuranda Railway’s tunnels, curves, and bridges
- Immerse yourself in the ancient wonder of Barron Gorge’s dense and lively rainforest
- Ride the Skyrail to the top of Barron Falls’ Edge Lookout
- Spend the day exploring the quaint and charming township of Kuranda
- Return to Cairns via scenic Skyrail
Overview
All aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway! Travel two hours from Cairns to Kuranda via century-old tracks over sky-high bridges, through plunging tunnels and countless curves — all while enjoying ever-changing views of Barron Gorge’s majestic rainforest and waterfall. Learn about Cairns, the history of the railway, the rainforest, and all of its cuddly and creepy inhabitants from the expert commentary.
Arrive at your destination of the rural township of Kuranda and spend the day leisurely exploring its small-town charm. Search for treasures at the Heritage Markets, and then take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to the tip-top of Barron Gorge’s Edge Lookout for a hair-raising bird’s eye view of the national park before descending into the dense, earthy depths of the Rainforest Discovery Zone on your way home!
Take your railway adventure to the next level by upgrading to Gold Class! Travel in historically decorated first-class carriages with luxurious lounge-style seating. The Gold Class package includes attentive service, where you’ll be waited on hand and foot and provided a delightful morning or afternoon tea with several rounds of complimentary beverages.
Highlights
- Transportation from hotel to Freshwater Station
- Ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway
- Informative and educational commentary
- Learn about the history of the railway and Barron Gorge
- Explore the charming township of Kuranda
- See Barron Falls from soaring heights on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Stroll through the Rainforest Discovery Zone
- Shop til you drop at the Kuranda Heritage Markets
- Travel in Victorian-era luxury carriages! (Gold Class package only)
- Enjoy morning or afternoon tea on board
- Choose from a variety of beverages throughout the day (Gold Class package only)
Sample Itinerary
Show Less
Ride the Railway
Take part in a very special piece of Cairns’ history and climb aboard the antique rainforest railway service! Opened to the public in 1881, the railway travels between the sandy shores of Cairns to the quaint township of Kuranda, a historical village perched on the edge of Barron Gorge. Burrow through 15 tunnels, glide over dozens of bridges and around 93 curves as you climb hi...
Read More
Important Information
- Gold Class tickets are only available for the 9:50 am train.
- Carriages on the Kuranda Scenic Railway are more than 100 years old, with no air-conditioning. During warmer months, please plan ahead for tropical heat and warmer travel conditions.
- Not all Kuranda Scenic Railway seats have a window, however, all seats have access to view the scenery.
- Child Policy: 0-3 years inclusive free of charge; 4-14 years inclusive child price applies.
- We do not have facilities for luggage storage at our stations or on Kuranda Scenic Railway.
All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Tour Operator. It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to actions of our clients which are beyond our control. We recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1.5% surcharge for VISA, MASTERCARD and AMEX card purchases.
What To Bring
Please restrict yourself to a small day pack:
- Sun safety (sunscreen, hat, water bottle, sunglasses)
- Camera
- Motion sickness medication for those affected
- Cash and/or card for lunch and shopping in Kuranda
- Small folding stroller (no higher than 25cm when folded) can be accommodated onboard train
What's Included
- Accommodation pick up and drop off
- Electronic boarding pass for Kuranda Scenic Railway
- 37 km scenic railway ride through the Barron Gorge National Park
- Audio commentary onboard train
- Water and water coolers available in each carriage
- Onboard Guests Services Attendants available for questions and assistance
- Scenic cablecar journey above Barron Falls National Park
- 10-minute stop for photos at Barron Falls lookout
- A leisurely day at Kuranda Village
Gold Class Package Extras:
- Dedicated personal hostess/host
- Morning or afternoon tea provided onboard
- Several complimentary beverages offered throughout day
- Souvenir gift pack
- Antique carriages with Victorian-inspired decor
What's Extra
- Lunch and additional personal purchases at Kuranda Village
- Gold Class upgrade
Cancellations
No shows or client cancellations made within 14 days of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price.
A refund in the event of cancellation is subject to both our Cancellation Policy and the terms of the supplier.
Terms and Conditions
Our Terms & Conditions apply to this experience. Please review them before booking.
Customers who viewed this item also viewed...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Kuranda?
Kuranda is a charming jungle village full of attractions! Walk through the markets, visit a local wildlife sanctuary such as Rainforestation, Koala Gardens, or Birdworld, or walk to Barron Gorge Lookout. There is much more to do, but those are the highlights.
What is the weather like in Kuranda?
Kuranda has a tropical climate like Cairns, so it will be hot and humid in summer or warm in winter. Pack sun protection!
Why book the Gold Class Package?
Gold Class just gives you a bit of luxury on your journey. You'll have a Dedicated personal hostess/host to serve you fresh beverages on your train journey. You'll also get a souvenir gift pack and ride in premium antique carriages with Victorian-inspired decor.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch and any other Kuranda attractions or activities are at your own expense.
How long is the scenic railway ride?
It's a 37 km scenic railway ride through the rainforest!
