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Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail Tickets
Combining Kuranda’s scenic train and Skyrail with stress-free transfers.
- Great for: Experiencing the rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife of Kuranda from both the ground and above in a relaxed way.
- You’ll get: One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, free time in Kuranda Village.
- You’ll see: Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls, Baron Gorge, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld & Kuranda Koala Gardens.
- Upgrades: Go up the Scenic Railway and return via the Skyrail, or vice versa, or opt for a tour with discounted entry at Kuranda’s top spots.
Combining Kuranda’s scenic train and Skyrail with stress-free transfers.
- Great for: Experiencing the rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife of Kuranda from both the ground and above in a relaxed way.
- You’ll get: One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, free time in Kuranda Village.
- You’ll see: Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls, Baron Gorge, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld & Kuranda Koala Gardens.
- Upgrades: Go up the Scenic Railway and return via the Skyrail, or vice versa, or opt for a tour with discounted entry at Kuranda’s top spots.
Inclusions
- One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket
- One-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns
- Free time in Kuranda Village
- Coupons for discounted entry to Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld, & Kuranda Koala Gardens (as per option selected)
- Expert local bus driver (as per option selected)
- Live commentary at the bus & the train
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Travel to Kuranda in style with Gold Class rail, scenic Skyrail views & seamless transfers.
- Great for: A relaxed experience that combines breathtaking rainforest views, a touch of luxury, and a flexible self-guided itinerary in Kuranda Village.
- You’ll get: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, expert local guide, Gold Class ticket on the Kuranda Scenic Railway with premium service, complimentary drinks and snacks, and round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns.
- You’ll see: Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Gorge, Red Peak, Barron Falls, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Robb’s Monument, Jungara.
Travel to Kuranda in style with Gold Class rail, scenic Skyrail views & seamless transfers.
- Great for: A relaxed experience that combines breathtaking rainforest views, a touch of luxury, and a flexible self-guided itinerary in Kuranda Village.
- You’ll get: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, expert local guide, Gold Class ticket on the Kuranda Scenic Railway with premium service, complimentary drinks and snacks, and round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns.
- You’ll see: Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Gorge, Red Peak, Barron Falls, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Robb’s Monument, Jungara.
Inclusions
- One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket
- One-way Gold Class Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns
- Expert local guide
- Refreshments
- Dedicated service
- Kuranda Boarding Pass with attraction discounts
- Tip: Sit on the left side of the train for the best views of waterfalls and Barron Gorge on the way down to Cairns.
- The experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
- The Skyrail departs from Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal, whereas the Scenic Rail departs from Freshwater Railway Station.
- Children below 14 must be accompanied by an adult on the Skyrail and Scenic Rail.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
4.5(2,243)
Combo (Save 5%): From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers + Cairns Aquarium Tickets
from AU$266
AU$252.70
5% off
See Cairns from rainforest heights to reef wonders—Kuranda’s best and the Aquarium in one day.
- Everything you get at Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail: One-way ticket on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, and free time to explore Kuranda Village.
- Everything you get at Cairns Aquarium: Full-day admission with access to 70+ habitats and 10 regional ecosystems, plus all shows and feedings.
- Why choose this combo: Experience the best of Cairns above and below—lush rainforest adventures and vibrant reef life—without the hassle of separate bookings.
See Cairns from rainforest heights to reef wonders—Kuranda’s best and the Aquarium in one day.
- Everything you get at Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail: One-way ticket on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, and free time to explore Kuranda Village.
- Everything you get at Cairns Aquarium: Full-day admission with access to 70+ habitats and 10 regional ecosystems, plus all shows and feedings.
- Why choose this combo: Experience the best of Cairns above and below—lush rainforest adventures and vibrant reef life—without the hassle of separate bookings.
Inclusions
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket
- One-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns
- Free time in Kuranda Village
Cairns Aquarium
- Entry to Cairns Aquarium
- All-day access to exhibits
- Access to all shows, presentations, and facilities
Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour
- Outside drinks and smoking are not allowed.
- The experience is wheelchair accessible.
- The Skyrail departs from Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal, whereas the Scenic Rail departs from Freshwater Railway Station.
- Children below 14 must be accompanied by an adult on the Skyrail and Scenic Rail.
Cairns Aquarium Tickets
- Pets, outside food and drink, taking photos for commercial use without permission, flash photography, and smoking in non-designated areas are not allowed.
- The venue is fully wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
- The Marine Life Encounter requires feeding from a platform with stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
- No onsite parking; 3-hour free street parking available nearby.
- Children under 3 years of age are admitted free.
- Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore the beauty of Australia's pristine tropical rainforests by riding the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableways.
- Spread across 7.5 kilometers over the lush forest, feel like you're gliding in the air above the canopy before descending into the heart of the forest.
- Enjoy a one-way journey that takes 1.5hrs or 2.5hrs for a round-trip journey exploring Red Peak and Barron Falls, each exciting with its boardwalk tours, dedicated walkways, and scenic lookout points.
- Skyrail’s Smithfield (Cairns) terminal is located 15mins north of Cairns and 50mins south of Port Douglas.
- A handy interpretative app and audio guide lets you see augmented reality rainforest animals appear right in front of you.
- Upgrade your ticket to ride on a diamond view gondola with glass flooring, adding to your sightseeing experience.
- Explore the beauty of Australia's pristine tropical rainforests by riding the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableways.
- Spread across 7.5 kilometers over the lush forest, feel like you're gliding in the air above the canopy before descending into the heart of the forest.
- Enjoy a one-way journey that takes 1.5hrs or 2.5hrs for a round-trip journey exploring Red Peak and Barron Falls, each exciting with its boardwalk tours, dedicated walkways, and scenic lookout points.
- Skyrail’s Smithfield (Cairns) terminal is located 15mins north of Cairns and 50mins south of Port Douglas.
- A handy interpretative app and audio guide lets you see augmented reality rainforest animals appear right in front of you.
- Upgrade your ticket to ride on a diamond view gondola with glass flooring, adding to your sightseeing experience.
Inclusions
- 1-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience
- Round-trip Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience (Optional)
- Access to Red Peak's Rainforest Discovery Zone, Ranger Guided Boardwalk Tours, rainforest boardwalk loop, scenic lookout
- Access to Barron Fall's The Edge Lookout, CSIRO Rainforest Interpretation Centre, rainforest boardwalk loop, Historical Precinct & more
- Free WiFi
- Multilingual app & audio guide
- Diamond View Gondola (Optional)
Exclusions
- Travel insurance
- Hotel transfers
- Food & drinks
This ticket has the following variants that you can choose from:
- One Way Skyrail Experience
- Round Trip Skyrail Experience
- One Way Skyrail Experience with Diamond View Gondola
- Round Trip Skyrail Experience with Diamond View Gondola
You can redeem your tickets at any one of the two terminals:
1. Smithfield Terminal
- Address: 6 Skyrail Dr, Smithfield QLD 4878
- Get Directions to the Redemption Point
- The closest bus stop is Brinsmead Kamerunga Rd (Skyrail Base Station), a 2-min walk to this terminal
2. Kuranda Terminal
- Address: Arara St, Kuranda QLD 4881
- Get Directions to the Redemption Point
- Closest train station is Kuranda Train Station, a 2-min walk to this terminal
- Skyrail’s Smithfield (Cairns) terminal is located 15 minutes north of Cairns and 50 minutes south of Port Douglas.
- A one-way journey takes approximately 1.5 hours including time spent exploring Red Peak and Barron Falls.
- Allows 2.5 hours for a round-trip experience.
- First departure from Smithfield is at 8:30am and the last one-way or round trip experience from Smithfield departs at 1:00 PM.
· The last one-way experience from Kuranda departs at 3:15 PM and the latest you can board from Kuranda for a round-trip experience is at 12:00 PM.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 10 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TimelineMap
Start point
Cairns
Passes By
Kuranda Scenic Rail
1. Kuranda Village
Highlights
Kuranda Heritage Markets
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Birdworld Kuranda
2. Rainforestation Nature Park
Highlights
Koala & Wildlife Park
Things to do
Army Duck Tour
Dreamtime Walk
Pamagirri Aboriginal Dance Show
Passes By
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
End point
Cairns
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Train, Skyrail & Rainforest—experience Kuranda from every angle.
- Great for: A scenic and immersive rainforest adventure combining historic rail travel, aerial views, Aboriginal culture, and wildlife encounters.
- You’ll get: A Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, Kuranda guidebook with discount coupons, entry to Rainforestation Nature Park, army duck tour, Koala & Wildlife Park, Dreamtime Walk & Pamagirri dance performance, and round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns.
- You’ll see: Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls, Baron Gorge, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Koala & Wildlife Park, army duck tour, Pamagirri dance performance.
- Upgrades: Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch at Rainforestation Nature Park while watching the Pamagiri dance performance at the park’s amphitheater.
Train, Skyrail & Rainforest—experience Kuranda from every angle.
- Great for: A scenic and immersive rainforest adventure combining historic rail travel, aerial views, Aboriginal culture, and wildlife encounters.
- You’ll get: A Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, Kuranda guidebook with discount coupons, entry to Rainforestation Nature Park, army duck tour, Koala & Wildlife Park, Dreamtime Walk & Pamagirri dance performance, and round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns.
- You’ll see: Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls, Baron Gorge, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Koala & Wildlife Park, army duck tour, Pamagirri dance performance.
- Upgrades: Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch at Rainforestation Nature Park while watching the Pamagiri dance performance at the park’s amphitheater.
Inclusions
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket
- Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns
- Expert driver
- Free time in Kuranda Village
- Entry to Rainforestation Nature Park
- Army Duck tour
- Koala & Wildlife Park
- Dreamtime Walk & Pamagirri dance performance (as per option selected)
- BBQ Lunch (as per option selected)
- Kuranda guidebook with discount coupons
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION11 hours 25 minutes
TimelineMap
Start point
Cairns
Passes By
Kuranda Scenic Rail
1. Kuranda Village
Highlights
Kuranda Heritage Markets
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Birdworld Kuranda
Passes By
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
2. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
End point
Cairns
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Soar on Skyrail, cruise the Scenic Rail, and see crocs at Hartley’s Adventures.
- Great for: A self-paced, all-in-one experience to explore Kuranda, ride the Skyrail and Scenic Railway, and visit Hartley’s with stress-free hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- You’ll get: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, entry to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, driver, free time in Kuranda Village, written trip guide with Kuranda discounts.
- You’ll see: Pioneer Cemetery, Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls, Rainforest Discovery Zone, Edge Lookout, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Melaleuca wetlands.
Soar on Skyrail, cruise the Scenic Rail, and see crocs at Hartley’s Adventures.
- Great for: A self-paced, all-in-one experience to explore Kuranda, ride the Skyrail and Scenic Railway, and visit Hartley’s with stress-free hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- You’ll get: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket, Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, entry to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, driver, free time in Kuranda Village, written trip guide with Kuranda discounts.
- You’ll see: Pioneer Cemetery, Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls, Rainforest Discovery Zone, Edge Lookout, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Melaleuca wetlands.
Inclusions
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket
- Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns
- Driver host
- Free time in Kuranda Village
- Written trip guide with Kuranda discounts
- Entry to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
- Tip: Check out the cassowary feeding at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures to see the endangered birds eat tropical fruits.
- The experience is wheelchair-accessible.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
- The Skyrail departs from Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal, whereas the Scenic Rail departs from Freshwater Railway Station.
- This tour includes round-trip transfers from select hotels in Cairns.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION40 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERAirplane
TimelineMap
Start point
Cairns Airport
Passes By
Trinity Inlet
Cairns City and Northern Beaches
Mount Yarrabah
Palm Cove
Double Island
Cape Grafton
False Cape
Green Island
Vlasoff Cay
Fitzroy Island
Michaelmas Cay and Reef
Upolu Cay
Arlington Reef
Oyster Reef
End point
Cairns Airport
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Scenic 40‑minute flight over the Great Barrier Reef with guaranteed window seats.
- Great for: Nature lovers and families eager to experience unparalleled aerial views of vibrant reefs, pristine islands, and unique marine life.
- Everything you get: 40‑minute flight in a high‑wing aircraft with guaranteed window seats, expert in‑flight commentary, and exceptional photo opportunities.
- Why choose this: See the vastness of the 2300-km-long Great Barrier Reef —flying over Green Island, coral gardens, and sand cays.
Scenic 40‑minute flight over the Great Barrier Reef with guaranteed window seats.
- Great for: Nature lovers and families eager to experience unparalleled aerial views of vibrant reefs, pristine islands, and unique marine life.
- Everything you get: 40‑minute flight in a high‑wing aircraft with guaranteed window seats, expert in‑flight commentary, and exceptional photo opportunities.
- Why choose this: See the vastness of the 2300-km-long Great Barrier Reef —flying over Green Island, coral gardens, and sand cays.
Inclusions
- 40-minute flight over Great Barrier Reef from Cairns
- Expert pilot/guide
- Headsets
- Window seats
- Tip: Keep an eye out for marine life during your flight; this is one of the few places where you can spot dugongs, manta rays, and green turtles from above!
- The experience is restricted for guests weighing more than 115kg.
- This tour can accommodate a maximum of 7 people on the flight.
- Note: Starting 1 April 2026, due to increased fuel charges, all guests are required to pay a $10 per person surcharge on board. This fee cannot be added during the booking process and must be paid upon arrival.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Rainforest by rail and sky—experience Kuranda with a self-guided journey.
- Great for: A flexible rainforest escape—drive yourself, soar above the treetops, ride the scenic railway, and explore Kuranda at your own leisure.
- You’ll get: Kuranda Scenic Train ticket, Skyrail Cableway ticket, round-trip coach transfer from Skyrail Terminal, free time in Kuranda Village.
- You’ll see: 15 hand-carved tunnels, 37 bridges, Barron Falls, Stoney Creek, Red Peak, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Barron Gorge.
- Upgrades: You can choose to purchase a one-way Skyrail or scenic train ticket or enhance your visit with entry to Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens, or the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary(at your own expense) for an up-close wildlife experience.
Rainforest by rail and sky—experience Kuranda with a self-guided journey.
- Great for: A flexible rainforest escape—drive yourself, soar above the treetops, ride the scenic railway, and explore Kuranda at your own leisure.
- You’ll get: Kuranda Scenic Train ticket, Skyrail Cableway ticket, round-trip coach transfer from Skyrail Terminal, free time in Kuranda Village.
- You’ll see: 15 hand-carved tunnels, 37 bridges, Barron Falls, Stoney Creek, Red Peak, Kuranda Heritage Markets, Barron Gorge.
- Upgrades: You can choose to purchase a one-way Skyrail or scenic train ticket or enhance your visit with entry to Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens, or the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary(at your own expense) for an up-close wildlife experience.
Inclusions
- Kuranda Scenic Train ticket
- Skyrail Cableway ticket
- Round-trip coach transfer from Skyrail Terminal
- Free time in Kuranda Village
- One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket (as per option selected)
- One-way Scenic Railway ticket (as per option selected)
- Tip: Shop for Aboriginal artefacts, handmade leather goods, woodwork and jewellery at the Kuranda Heritage Markets.
- This tour does not include hotel transfers and is for self-drive travelers. Guests must drive to Skyrail’s Smithfield Terminal, where free parking is provided.
- The experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
- The Skyrail departs from Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal, whereas the Scenic Rail departs from Freshwater Railway Station.
- Children below 14 must be accompanied by an adult on the Skyrail and Scenic Rail.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
4.6(885)
Combo (Save 5%) : Kuranda Koala Gardens Tickets + From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Self-Guided Kuranda Tour
from AU$209
AU$198.55
5% off
All-in-one Cairns day trip: wildlife encounters, heritage rail & Skyrail adventure.
- Everything you get at Kuranda Koala Gardens: Entry to the wildlife park with koalas, wallabies, wombats, gliders, reptiles, and more. Enjoy the boutique rainforest village, with the option to meet and pat a koala (extra cost).
- Everything you get at Scenic Train & Skyrail Self-Guided Tour: Ride the heritage Kuranda Scenic Railway through rainforest, mountains, and tunnels. Glide above the treetops on Skyrail for panoramic views, and explore Kuranda village at your own pace.
- Why choose this combo: Perfect for a stress-free Cairns day trip, this combo lets you experience the region’s best wildlife and rainforest highlights without planning multiple bookings or transport — all seamlessly in one adventure.
All-in-one Cairns day trip: wildlife encounters, heritage rail & Skyrail adventure.
- Everything you get at Kuranda Koala Gardens: Entry to the wildlife park with koalas, wallabies, wombats, gliders, reptiles, and more. Enjoy the boutique rainforest village, with the option to meet and pat a koala (extra cost).
- Everything you get at Scenic Train & Skyrail Self-Guided Tour: Ride the heritage Kuranda Scenic Railway through rainforest, mountains, and tunnels. Glide above the treetops on Skyrail for panoramic views, and explore Kuranda village at your own pace.
- Why choose this combo: Perfect for a stress-free Cairns day trip, this combo lets you experience the region’s best wildlife and rainforest highlights without planning multiple bookings or transport — all seamlessly in one adventure.
Inclusions
Kuranda Koala Gardens
- Entry to Kuranda Koala Gardens
Scenic Train & Skyrail self-guided Kuranda tour
- Kuranda Scenic Train ticket
- Skyrail Cableway ticket
- Round-trip coach transfer from Skyrail Terminal
- Free time in Kuranda Village
What to bring
Kuranda Koala Gardens
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring a refillable water bottle and a light jacket.
Scenic Train & Skyrail self-guided Kuranda tour
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring a refillable water bottle and a light jacket for the train journey.
What’s not allowed
Scenic Train & Skyrail self-guided Kuranda tour
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed on the Scenic Railway or Skyrail. Smoking is prohibited in all transport vehicles and station areas.
Accessibility
Kuranda Koala Gardens
- The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Scenic Train & Skyrail self-guided Kuranda tour
- The experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
Additional information
Scenic Train & Skyrail self-guided Kuranda tour
- The Skyrail departs from Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal, whereas the Scenic Rail departs from Freshwater Railway Station.
- Children below 14 must be accompanied by an adult on the Skyrail and Scenic Rail.
- This tour does not include hotel transfers and is for self-drive travelers. Guests must drive to Skyrail’s Smithfield Terminal and park their car at Skyrail Smithfield Terminal before taking a bus transfer to Freshwater Station.
- The Scenic Train takes approximately 2 hours, while the Skyrail journey takes around 1.5 hours, including stops at Red Peak and Barron Falls.
- Kuranda attractions (wildlife parks, markets, and other experiences) are not included and can be purchased separately upon arrival.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
CairnsKuranda Scenic Railway
Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket breakdown
Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail tickets
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins - 5 hour 55 mins
Price: Starting from AU$55
Explore Kuranda by train and Skyrail, and take some time to explore the village. Get round-trip hotel transfers from Port Douglas or one-way ticket upgrades.
Recommended experiences:
- From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Self-Guided Kuranda Tour
- From Port Douglas: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfersr
Kuranda Scenic Railway Gold Class tickets
Duration: 5 hours 45 mins - 8 hours 40 mins
Price: Starting from AU$199
Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway in Gold Class, enjoying premium service, drinks, and snacks. Explore with an expert guide, take in stunning views from the Skyrail, and get round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns.
Recommended experience:
- From Cairns: Scenic Train with Gold Class & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail with attractions
Duration: 11 hours - 11.24 hours
Price: Starting from AU$123
Experience a full-day Kuranda adventure with hotel transfers from Cairns and an expert driver host. Journey on the Scenic Railway and Skyrail, explore the charming village, and choose between an Army Duck tour or a visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures.
Recommended experiences:
- From Cairns: Scenic Train, Skyrail, & Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
- From Cairns: Scenic Train, Skyrail, & Kuranda Rainforest Tour
Plan your visit
Timings
Getting there
Transfers
Rules
Accessibility
Tips
Nearby
Dining
Stay
- The Kuranda Scenic Railway operates daily except for Christmas Day and planned maintenance closures.
- The train departs Cairns at 8:30am and 9:30am and Freshwater at 8:55am and 9:55am. It arrives at Kuranda at 10:25am and 11:25am.
- The train departs from Kuranda at 2pm and 3:30pm and Freshwater from 3:32pm and 5:02pm. It arrives at Cairns at 3:55pm and 5:25pm.
- The journey takes 1 hour and 55 minutes from Cairns Railway Station with a 5-minute stop at Freshwater Station to pick up more passengers and a 10-minute stop at Barron Falls Lookout.
Cairns Railway Station
- Address: 142 Bunda St, Cairns QLD 4870, Australia.
- By bus: Take bus lines 110, 111, 120, 121, 123, 142, or 143W to Cairns City Station, which is a 6-minute walk from the railway station.
- By car: You can take a car or taxi down to Cairns Railway Station where you can park for free at Cairns Central Shopping Centre.
Freshwater Railway Station
- Address: Barron QLD 4878, Australia. Find on maps
- By bus: Take bus line 121 to Lavis Rd at Valley Street,which is a 3-minute walk to the station.
- By car: You can take a car or taxi down to Freshwater Railway Station where you can park for free at the station.
- Most of the Kuranda Scenic tours offer round-trip transfers from your hotel in Cairns or Port Douglas. Choose your hotel name in the dropdown while making the booking.
- Popular hotel pickup points in Cairns include Gilligan’s Hotel & Resort and Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, while in Port Douglas, common pickup locations are Oaks Resort Port Douglas and Shantara Resort Port Douglas.
- Limited luggage allowed: The train’s limited storage capacity only allows for luggage less than 20kg in weight and 25cm in height.
- Pay attention to safety instructions: The train staff will provide important safety instructions during the journey. Pay attention and follow them.
- Accompanied minors: Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 16 years or over.
- Identification: Passengers may be required to provide proof of identity and, if applicable, entitlement to concessional tickets.
- Smoking: Any form of smoking, including vapes and e-cigarettes, is prohibited on the train and the stations.
- Wheelchair accessibility: There are wheelchair-accessible carriages with varying platform heights, lifts, or ramps to help get into the train at different stations. There are also four accessible spaces in the accessible coaches with seats nearby for carers.
- Guests with low vision and hearing disabilities: The carriage has high-visibility handrails and contrasting surface colors for guests with low vision. The train staff can provide a written copy of the audio commentary for guests with hearing disabilities.
- Carer eligibility: With a valid companion card, the carer can get free tickets along with the guests with disability in Heritage Class.
- Assistance animal: Accredited guide, hearing, and assistance animals are allowed on the train. However, inform the railways when booking to ensure they can arrange suitable seating for your animal.
- Combine Scenic Rail & Skyrail: Book a tour with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to experience the Wet Tropics and Kuranda from different perspectives.
- Choose the right seats: Get the seats on the train’s right-hand side to get the best views of the coast and valleys on your journey up to Kuranda.
- Bring insect repellent: Carry insect repellants to protect yourself from insects during the guided boardwalk tour at Red Peaks and Barron Falls stops.
- Avail of the free shuttle: Use the free shuttle between the Kuranda Railway Station and the Skyrail.
- Great Barrier Reef: Just a 45-minute drive away, explore the vibrant coral reef by snorkeling, diving, and taking boat tours to explore marine life.
- Barron Gorge National Park: Located just 32 minutes, this rainforest park is home to Barron Falls and the Douglas Track and has deep cultural significance for the Djabugay people.
- Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: A short 49-minute drive will get you to this top wildlife park near Cairns known for crocodile boat cruises and its snake and crocodile shows.
- Frogs Kuranda: Located in Kuranda Heritage Markets, this rainforest restaurant is famous for its local barramundi, kangaroo burgers, green mango curry, and vegan options.
- The Petit Café: A cozy cafe known for its cheese crepes and Kuranda honey and cream crepes made from locally sourced ingredients.
- La Fonda Latina: A lively Latin American eatery offering authentic arepas, empanadas, and delicious Colombian coffee.
- Budget-friendly hotels: Sarayi Boutique Hotel, Palm Cove & Aspect Central
- Mid-range hotels: Kuranda Ngorongoro Lodge & The Palms at Palm Cove
- Luxury hotels: Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort & Spa& The Reef House Adults Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions about Kuranda Scenic Railway Tickets
Where does the Kuranda Scenic Railway start and end?
The train runs between Cairns Railway Station to Kuranda Railway Station, with a 5 to 10-minute stop at Freshwater Railway Station.
What are the ticket prices?
Prices vary by tour. The From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Self-Guided Kuranda Tour is priced at AU$55 with an option of upgrading to one-way scenic rail or skyrail ticket. On the other hand, the From Port Douglas: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfersr tour is priced at AU$251 and includes round-trip hotel transfers from Port Douglas along with an expert driver.
Are there any discounts available for children or seniors?
Children between 4 to 14 years and families often get discounted rates and Australian seniors may qualify for concessions.
Is there a return ticket option?
You can book a return journey or combine the train with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a round-trip experience.
What is the difference between Heritage Class and Gold Class tickets?
The Heritage class ticket is a standard ticket with snacks and drinks available for purchase onboard in classic wooden carriages with standard seating, whereas the Gold Class ticket is a premium experience with lounge seats, complimentary snacks and drinks, and personalized table service.
Is the train accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, the train is wheelchair accessible with dedicated wheelchair spaces available on board, and ramps are provided to assist with boarding. However, it’s highly recommended to notify staff when booking to ensure proper arrangements are made.
Are there guided tours or commentary on board?
Yes, the train has multilingual audio commentary that shares fascinating history and insights about the railway, making it an informative journey as you wind through the rainforest.
What is the best time of year to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway?
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for a comfortable journey, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and better visibility of the rainforest and mountain views, while the wet season (November to April) enhances waterfalls and rainforest scenery but with higher humidity, occasional rain, and fewer crowds.
Does the train operate daily?
Yes, the Kuranda Scenic Railway operates daily, except for Christmas Day and during maintenance closures.
Can I take luggage on the train?
Only small bags and backpacks are allowed. Large suitcases or heavy luggage are not permitted due to space limitations.
Are assistance animals allowed on the Kuranda Scenic Railway?
Yes, certified assistance animals are permitted on board. You must provide official certification proving that your animal is a registered assistance animal and make sure to inform the staff when booking your ticket.
From happy customers
Joanne
AustraliaMar, 2026
+ 2 more
The aquarium is amazing! I took so many photos, I basically ran my phone battery flat! 10/10. Highly recommended!! I went with my mother, my niece and her partner and their two small children and we all had an amazing time. We were able fi
Combo: From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers + Cairns Aquarium Tickets
Trenton
AustraliaJan, 2026
Such a wonderful experience. Begins with friendly staff who explain the journey and tips about saving information about the animals. Inside the aquarium i was surprised to how many different animals there was. I was not expecting such a large variety. I seen fish and reptiles i have never seen before. Definitely going back in the future.
Combo: From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers + Cairns Aquarium Tickets
Mehdi
AustraliaDec, 2025
+ 2 more
Loved it. Stunning views the whole way and Kuranda is a beautiful little village with a nice, relaxed vibe. The scenic train and Skyrail were both amazing and well organised. Definitely worth doing.
From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers
Jeanne
FranceDec, 2025
+ 1 more
It was magical, thanks to the driver and the team for offering us this exceptional moment! We had a wonderful time
View original review in French
From Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef 40‑Minute Scenic Flight
Tanya
AustraliaJan, 2026
Train and Skyrail. One thing that can be improved- please add the bus service to the itinerary who will be picking customers up first the Army duck as we thought it was down under tours so we missed the activity and had to go later. If we had known who we were travelling with we would have been on time as we were waiting for an hour.
From Cairns: Scenic Train, Skyrail & Kuranda Rainforest Tour
Rebecca
AustraliaOct, 2025
Great experience riding up on the scenic railway in the morning and returning on the sky rail with a view of cairns and the ocean. The Rainforestation tour was enjoyed to see the various animals and veregation during the army duck ride. Thanks for an awesome day for our family.
From Cairns: Scenic Train, Skyrail & Kuranda Rainforest Tour
John
United StatesDec, 2025
A very nice day. Driver was on time and very personable. Gold class morning tea on the train was lovely. Views were amazing! Enjoyed the village of kuranda. The bird sanctuary was amazing!!! Skyrail down was breathtaking!
From Cairns: Scenic Train with Gold Class & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers
David
AustraliaDec, 2025
A great day, with smooth well planned transfers. But be sure to check pickup time with local pick up partner, as time supplied by headout was nearly an hour TOO LATE! BEWARE
From Cairns: Scenic Train with Gold Class & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers