Kuranda Train & Skyrail + Cairns Transfers

    • Places: Cairns, Kuranda
    • Departs from: Cairns
    • Region: Tropical North Queensland, Queensland
    • Duration: 6 hours
    • Price: From $217 per person (AUD)
    • Operator: Down Under Tours | Kuranda
    • Rating: 4.9 out of 5 from 125 reviews

    The Kuranda Train & Skyrail tour offers a journey through the rainforest village of Kuranda. Start with a ride on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, passing through tunnels and waterfalls, and enjoy views over Cairns. Explore Kuranda's cafes, markets, and attractions like the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. Conclude with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, offering aerial views and stops at two stations for boardwalks and lookouts. Transfers from Cairns are included.

    Activities

    • Scenic Walks
    • Waterfalls
    • Wildlife
    • Crocodile Cruise
    • Gondola
    • Train Journey
    • Historical

    Features

    • Kuranda Scenic Railway tickets
    • Skyrail Rainforest Cableway tickets
    • Hotel transfers from Cairns
    • Kuranda Boarding Pass with itinerary
    • Discount vouchers for Kuranda attractions

    The Tour

    Scenic Rail Journey

    The day begins with a transfer from Cairns accommodations to Freshwater Station. Board the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a historic journey through the rainforest. The train travels through tunnels, past waterfalls, and offers expansive views over Cairns. A guide provides commentary on the journey's highlights.

    Kuranda Exploration

    Upon arrival in Kuranda, guests have free time to explore. The town features cafes, restaurants, and the daily Heritage Markets, offering a variety of local crafts and souvenirs. Discount vouchers are provided for popular attractions like the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld, and Kuranda Koala Gardens.

    Skyrail Experience

    In the afternoon, board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a return journey. The cableway glides over the rainforest canopy, with stops at two stations. Guests can explore boardwalks and scenic lookouts, learning more about the rainforest ecosystem. The journey concludes at the Smithfield Terminal, where a representative coordinates the return transfer to Cairns.

    Tour options

    • 9:50am Train - 3:45pm Skyrail from $217 Ideal for those wanting a relaxed afternoon, this option includes the 9:50am train and the later 3:45pm Skyrail return. Enjoy ample time in Kuranda for shopping and exploring.
    • 9:50am Train - 2:45pm Skyrail from $217 Perfect for those who prefer an earlier return, this option features a 9:50am train departure and a 2:45pm Skyrail journey back.
    • 9:50am Train - 1:45pm Skyrail from $217 This option suits those wanting a shorter visit to Kuranda, with a 9:50am train and a 1:45pm Skyrail return.
    • 9:50am Train - 1:30pm Skyrail from $217 For a quick visit, take the 9:50am train and return via the 1:30pm Skyrail, allowing time for a brief exploration.
    • 8:50am Train - 3:45pm Skyrail from $217 Start earlier with the 8:50am train and enjoy a leisurely stay in Kuranda, returning with the 3:45pm Skyrail.
    • 8:50am Train - 2:45pm Skyrail from $217 An early start with the 8:50am train and a mid-afternoon 2:45pm Skyrail return, balancing exploration and relaxation.
    • 8:50am Train - 1:30pm Skyrail from $217 Begin your day with the 8:50am train and opt for an early 1:30pm Skyrail return for a brief visit.
    • 8:50am Train - 1:45pm Skyrail from $217 Enjoy a morning train ride at 8:50am and return at 1:45pm via Skyrail, ideal for those with limited time.

    What to bring

    • Comfortable walking shoes
    • Hat and sunglasses
    • Water bottle
    • Camera
    • Weather-appropriate clothing

    Meeting point

    For options 1 to 4, enjoy pickup from accommodation or central points across the area. Pickups occur between 7:30am and 9:25am, depending on your location. For options 5 to 8, the pickup network also covers accommodation and central points, with pickups between 7:00am and 8:50am. Please ensure you are ready at your designated pickup time.

    Useful information

    Guides

    Knowledgeable guides provide interesting commentary during the journey and are available in multiple languages.

    Attractions in Kuranda

    Visitors can explore the Heritage Markets, local cafes, and attractions like the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld, and Kuranda Koala Gardens.

    Scenic stops

    The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway includes stops at two stations for exploring boardwalks and scenic lookouts.

    Customer reviews

    • Kirsten Wiliams (4.5/5), 03-10-2026: Easy pickup and drop off. Perfect amount of time in town. Skyrail still worth doing even though the long section is under repair; we enjoyed the loop to the falls and back.
    • Vincent B. (5.0/5), 15-10-2022: Great service and a great trip. Was advised well in advance of maintenance on Skyrail on original booked day which allowed easy change to suit our time in FNQ.
    • Lyn S. (5.0/5), 01-09-2022: Well organised tour was easy to find where we had to be picked up and bus driver was excellent even dropped us back at ship saving that extra walk would definitely recommend company to friends. Lyn Seeber
    • Hilary W. (4.0/5), 27-07-2022: We all really enjoyed the day, and the \'door-to-door\' offer was great. Thank you for a great experience, from start to finish.
    • Marian C. (5.0/5), 23-07-2022: Enjoyed the rail trip to Kuranda and the Skyrail back. Staff at the Skyrail were really helpful when we wanted to come back early. Coach drivers were great on transfers to and from our accommodation.

    Check live availability and book online on this page.