Choose from 37 Fun Things to Do in Cairns The Tropical North
ShowingFilter 21-37 of 37 listings.
Lake Barrine
17,000 years ago, a large volcano erupted in Australia’s north-east corner, near what we now know as the city of Cairns. The core was blasted from this volcano leaving a huge crater, which filled with rainwater over time to create Lake Barrine.
From less-than-peaceful beginnings, Lake Barrine has become the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. A massive body of fresh water tucked within opulent cool rainforest, Lake Barrine is a family friendly, low-key holiday destination with opportunities for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors looking for relaxation can indulge in tea, scones, jam and cream at the lakeside teahouse, built in 1926, and wander the lush, manicured garden surroundings. Guided boat tours to view the Lake’s distinctive ecosystem are available, while the picnic grounds provide the perfect spot for a family lunch. The clear waters of Lake Barrine make an enjoyable swimming spot for swimmers of all levels of fitness and experience.
Those who would prefer to be more active should explore the World Heritage rainforest that surrounds Lake Barrine, where a network of walking tracks allows for anything from a short stroll to a 5 km hike. The 1,000 year old Twin Kauri Pine trees are the area’s most popular attraction, some over an incredible 45 metres tall and 6 metres in girth. Local wildlife is diverse and abundant, with water dragons, snakes, birds, turtles, eels, all kinds of birds, and even the musky rat-kangaroo are all commonly spotted.
From less-than-peaceful beginnings, Lake Barrine has become the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. A massive body of fresh water tucked within opulent cool rainforest, Lake Barrine is a family friendly, low-key holiday destination with opportunities for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors looking for relaxation can indulge in tea, scones, jam and cream at the lakeside teahouse, built in 1926, and wander the lush, manicured garden surroundings. Guided boat tours to view the Lake’s distinctive ecosystem are available, while the picnic grounds provide the perfect spot for a family lunch. The clear waters of Lake Barrine make an enjoyable swimming spot for swimmers of all levels of fitness and experience.
Those who would prefer to be more active should explore the World Heritage rainforest that surrounds Lake Barrine, where a network of walking tracks allows for anything from a short stroll to a 5 km hike. The 1,000 year old Twin Kauri Pine trees are the area’s most popular attraction, some over an incredible 45 metres tall and 6 metres in girth. Local wildlife is diverse and abundant, with water dragons, snakes, birds, turtles, eels, all kinds of birds, and even the musky rat-kangaroo are all commonly spotted.
Practical Info
Lake Barrine is located in Crater Lakes National Park, an hour’s drive from Cairns on the Gillies Highway. Tourists are well catered for, but camping and pets are prohibited in the area surrounding the lake. The teahouse is open from 9am to 4pm, every day except Christmas Day.
Address: Lake Barrine, QLD, Australia
From $ 108
Rainforestation Nature Park
The Rainforestation Nature Park is 100 acres of pristine World Heritage rainforest situated just half an hour’s drive from Cairns.
Here, visitors can get involved with nature by taking a ride through the tropical rainforest on an Army Duck Rainforest Tour, where an experienced guide will explain about the tropical plants and wildlife in the park. Elsewhere, the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience will provide an insight into Aboriginal culture, with demonstrations in traditional-style dwellings.
Visitors can also get up close to native Australian animals within the Koala and Wildlife Park, where trained and enthusiastic wildlife keepers will lead their guests along boardwalks that enable close-up encounters of crocodiles, dingoes, wombats, snakes, kangaroos, and wallabies.
Practical Info
The Rainforestation Nature Park is located along the Kennedy Highway, just five minutes from Kuranda Village. Most tours to the park include transport from Cairns plus entrance fee.
Address: Kennedy Highway, Kuranda QLD 4881, Australia
Admission: Adults: $45; Children: $22.50
From $ 18
Mamu Tropical Skywalk
With 2.5km of forest walkways, a cantilevered viewing platform and a 37-meter high observation tower, the Mamu Tropical Skywalk is for many visitors the highlight of the Wooroonooran National Park. Built in 2006, the easily accessible attraction offers the chance to discover the rainforest from the ground up, following the information boards through the dense jungle and listening to audio commentary on the elevated walkway.
As well as enjoying dramatic views over the North Johnstone River gorge from the observation tower, visitors have the chance to get up close to the park’s wildlife. This is one of few remaining rainforests in the world growing on basalt soils and its unique ecosystem is home to an abundance of forest dragons, cassowary, birds and butterflies, as well as rare animals like musky rat-kangaroos and white-tailed rats, and a huge variety of wildflowers and trees.
Practical Info
The Mamu Tropical Skywalk is located in the Palmerston Section of the Wooroonooran National Park in Queensland and is open daily from 9.30am-5.30pm. Admission is AU$20 for adults, AU$10 for children.
Address: Wooroonooran National Park, Innisfail QLD 4860, Australia
Hours: Daily 9:30am -5:30pm
Admission: Adults: AU$20; Children: AU$10
From $ 102
Trinity Beach
Located a 20-minute drive from Cairns, Trinity Beach is a tropical jewel just miles away from an urban center. Crystal clear waters lap the sandy beaches of this popular community, where paved walkways wander past lush gardens and beach almond trees cast shade from the sweltering sun. The calm waters are patrolled by a local lifeguard, and a stinger-proof enclosure protects swimmers during the high season, from November to May.
Travelers can find world-class restaurants and pubs stationed along the quiet Esplanade, while beachfront BBQs, tennis courts and a lively football club mean there’s plenty of opportunity to meet sun-loving locals here any time of year.
Practical Info
Beachcombers and sun-worshippers should plan to visit between May and November, when the dry season’s warm temperatures are ideal for laying out. Heavy rains typically fall between December and April, but this shift in weather makes for even greener rainforests and impressive waterfalls.
Address: Cairns, Australia
From $ 155
Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary
Queensland's Port Douglas features a true rain forest atmosphere, and at the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors can experience the kaleidoscope of color that wildlife brings to the forest. This eight-acre sanctuary is broken up into four different wilderness habitats–woodland, wetlands, rain forest, and savanna—and showcases the critters who call them home.
Gaze at a blue-and-orange-hued cassowary or the colorful lorikeets and parrots before scouring the savanna for Lumholtz's tree-kangaroos, which are only found in the tropics. Watch the eyes of a freshwater croc as it casually cruises the waters, or search for koalas high in the trees.
Sanctuary staff members lead guided, supervised feeding tours throughout the day and also host educational talks and presentations on the animals' fascinating characteristics. The wildlife sanctuary is very active in conservation, breeding, and rehabilitation. Upgrades for visitors include the after-dark Wildnight nocturnal tour (from $30), a Breakfast with the Birds experience (from $26.50), Lunch with the Lorikeets (from $28), and Picnic With the Parrots ($40).
Practical Info
The Wildlife Habitat Sanctuary is located at the southern end of Four Mile Beach, 3.3 miles (5.4 km) south of Port Douglas and 39 miles (63 km) northwest of Cairns. General admission tickets are valid for five days, and visitor facilities include free WiFi, restrooms, a gift shop, and a restaurant. Wheelchairs are available.
Address: Port Douglas Road, Port Douglas, Queensland 4877, Australia
Hours: Daily 8am–5pm; closed Christmas
Admission: Adults $34, children (4–14) $17
From $ 27
Herberton Historical Village
What do you imagine it would be like to live in Queensland in the 1880s, when pioneering settlers were pushing farther north and establishing towns along the way? Would life be difficult here in the hills, where meat had to be butchered, clothes had to be sewn, and boots were all made by hand, or would you welcome a simpler time that was free of our fast, modern day stress? These are questions you can ask for yourself at Herberton Historical Village, a phenomenally preserved example of life in 19th century Queensland. Wander the dusty village streets past 50 different buildings that date to the town’s original founding, when tin was suddenly discovered in these hills and miners flocked in droves. For over 90 years the town of Herberton boomed as a tin mining town, and at one point even had 17 pubs where the miners could drink and get loose. Today tourism drives the town, the most popular sight being the historical village where you can stroll past the chemist’s shop, peruse the frock shop, or admire the carriages and old time cars inside the wooden garage. Grab a scone at the Bakersville tea rooms or a pint at the Tin Pannikin Pub, and experience firsthand was life was like out here on the Queensland frontier. At an elevation of 3,000 feet in the rolling Atherton Tablelands, Herberton is Queensland’s highest town—and also one of its coldest—and the site of the best Australiana found anywhere in the country.
Practical Info
Guided tours are available from Cairns, or visitors with their own transport can visit independently. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the entire village.
Address: 6 Broadway Street, Herberton, Queensland, Australia QLD 4887, Australia
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm in high season, 9am-4pm in low season
Admission: Adults: $28; Children: $12
From $ 166
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park offers a fascinating insight into Australia’s diverse Aboriginal heritage. Visitors can discover the 40,000-year history of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and experience the Tjapukai people’s arts, traditions, and foods.
The Basics
Most visitors arrive at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park from Cairns, and there are plenty of options for half- and full-day tours. Standard entrance tickets include access to the Creation Theater, where Aboriginal folklore and myths are brought to life; the Cultural Village, which hosts traditional corroboree celebrations, live music, and dance shows; and plenty of fun interactive activities. A night visit is even more atmospheric with a lakeside fire ceremony, spectacular cultural show, and a delicious buffet dinner all included.
For the best value, combine your visit with a city tour of Cairns, nearby family attractions such as Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, or a thrilling ride on the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which starts right next door to Tjapukai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing to take part in the activities—sunscreen, a hat, and mosquito repellent are also recommended.
- There is a gift shop selling souvenirs and indigenous crafts sourced from across Australia, a restaurant serving a buffet lunch and dinner, and a bar and café on-site.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in the Cultural Centre building.
- Tjapukai is wheelchair accessible and has activities suitable for all ages and abilities.
How to Get to There
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is a short drive north of Cairns off Captain Cook Highway, next to Smithfield Station of Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Visitors can take advantage of an hourly shuttle service to and from Cairns, the northern beaches, and Port Douglas. Bus 123 also runs to the park from Cairns or else it’s a short taxi ride from the town center.
When to Get There
Tjapukai is open daily year-round and, like most Cairns attractions, it’s busiest on weekends and during the summer holidays (December–January). Shows, demonstrations, and interactive workshops are repeated morning and afternoon, so it’s best to arrive either at opening or before 2pm to enjoy all the activities, while night visits start from 7pm.
Tjapukai Cultural Activities
There are plenty of fun ways to get involved at Tjapukai. Sample bush tucker (foods native to Australia) at the Cultural Village, try your hand at spear- and boomerang-throwing, learn to play the didgeridoo, and dance around the campfire. Additional bookable activities include a guided tasting and demonstration of bush foods, native plants, and natural medicines; and a traditional handicrafts workshop involving boomerang painting, weaving, and jewelry making.
Address: Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Western Arterial Road, Cairns 4878, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 46
Mossman Gorge
Marking the southern border of Daintree National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mossman Gorge is one of the most popular places to experience the world’s oldest rain forest. Dating back more than 130 million years, the dense forest and scenic river gorge harbor a rich biodiversity and provide a stunning backdrop for hikers and swimmers.
The Basics
Guided or self-guided hikes set out from the Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre, and the marked trails offer a series of walks ranging from 10 to 45 minutes. Highlights include the elevated boardwalks of Baral Marrjanga, the Rex Creek suspension bridge, and the chance to swim at natural swimming holes along the Mossman River.
Most tours to the Mossman Gorge run from Cairns or Port Douglas, and a full-day tour typically includes other activities such as a cruise along the Daintree River or a visit to Cape Tribulation. A popular choice is a Dreamtime walk led by an indigenous guide, which offers fascinating insight into the region’s cultural heritage and Kuku Yalanji people.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach over 86°F (30°C) in the summer months, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as well as insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and your swimsuit.
- The Mossman Gorge is a UNESCO conservation area, so stick to the boardwalks and follow the rules to avoid disturbing the natural environment.
- The Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre has restrooms, a shop, a café-restaurant, car parking, and shuttle buses.
- Fast currents and flash floods are common along the Mossman Gorge, and swimming is recommended only for strong swimmers under the supervision of a guide.
- The Mossman Gorge Centre and the Baral Marrjanga rain forest boardwalk are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Mossman Gorge is located in the southern stretch of Daintree National Park, 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) west of Port Douglas. The closest town is Mossman, 3 miles (5 kilometers) away. Daily coach transfers run between Port Douglas and the Mossman Gorge Centre, from which shuttle buses run into the park.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Mossman Gorge is during the dry season (April to October), when the weather is cooler and less humid, but it’s best to make an early start to avoid the crowds. Visiting in the wet season (November to March) can be even more interesting for wildlife lovers, with plants and flowers in full bloom. However, swimming in the river is most dangerous at this time of year.
Wildlife-Spotting in the Mossman Gorge
The Mossman Gorge and the surrounding Daintree Rainforest are home to over a third of Australia’s mammals, more than 430 bird species, and many rare and endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Sought-after sightings include ringtail possums, tree kangaroos, Boyd Forest Dragon, and spotted-tail quolls, as well as platypus, echidna, and swamp wallaby. Bird sightings might include brush cuckoo, cassowary, dusky honeyeater, and common noddy. The plant life is equally impressive, with strangler figs, fan palms, and maple silkwood, as well as rare species such as white hazelwood shrub and backscratcher ginger.
Address: Johnston Road, Mossman 4873, Australia
Admission: Free
From $ 112
Skyrail Cableway
The rainforests of far north Queensland boast unparalled biodiversity, abounding with many unique plant species as well as possums, tree kangaroos, bats and a huge range of birdlife. But you needn’t necessarily rough it to get a taste of this tropical paradise. The Skyrail Cableway takes you on a 4.5 mile (7.5 kilometer) journey in a gondola above and through the tree treetops of the rainforest. Along the way you’ll see the dramatic Barron Gorge and stop off at 2 different points to explore boardwalks which snake through the canopy.
Informative signs along the route mean this is a great way to find out more about a fascinating environment while disturbing it as little as possible. Arriving at Kuranda, you have the chance to visit an aviary and Australia’s largest butterfly sanctuary.
The Cableway is just 15 minutes’ drive north of central Cairns along the Captain Cook Highway, which also goes past the city’s international airport.
Address: Cnr of Captain Cook Highway and Cairns Western Arterial Road, Smithfield 4878, Australia
Hours: Open daily
Admission: From AU$42
From $ 122
Green Island
Marooned off the coast of Cairns in north Queensland, Green Island is a tropical paradise of lush rainforest, white sandy beaches, and crystalline waters. The idyllic island is part of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and harbors an extraordinary variety of coral reefs, exotic fish, and marine life.
The Basics
As one of the most easily accessible islands in the Great Barrier Reef, Green Island is a popular choice for day-trippers from nearby Cairns. The Green Island resort offers everything you need to explore the island’s underwater wonders, whether you fly in by seaplane or sail out across the reef. As well as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and seawalker helmet tours, there are island reef cruises, glass-bottom boat tours, and semi-submarine excursions, the latter of which offer the chance to peek under the ocean without having to dive in.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Temperatures can reach upwards of 86°F (30°C) in summer, so pack sunscreen and a hat, as well as a swimsuit and towel.
- Follow the rules to avoid damaging the coral or disturbing The Great Barrier Reef, a protected conservation area.
- Facilities at the Green Island Resort include showers, changing rooms, lockers, a bar and restaurant, and free WiFi.
- The Green Island Resort has wheelchair access, but not all activities are fully accessible to those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Located around 16.5 miles (27 kilometers) from the mainland, the coral cay of Green Island is only accessible by boat or air. Most visitors travel to Green Island from Cairns, about a 45-minute cruise by schooner, catamaran, or charter boat. The quickest way to arrive on the island is by helicopter or seaplane, while passenger ferries set sail from the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Green Island National Park is during the dry season (April to September), when the weather is cooler and less humid, while in wet season (October to March) visitors can expect temperatures to average 86°F (30°C). It’s possible to visit year-round, but note that the island is occasionally inaccessible due to high winds or cyclonic activity.
The Underwater World of Green Island
Green Island’s platform reef offers more than 1,854 acres (710 hectares) of coral reef to explore. Its rainbow of corals include staghorn, plate, boulder, and mushroom corals. Look out for green and hawksbill sea turtles, dugong, giant clams, and sea urchins, as well as a spectacular variety of exotic fish, crabs, and starfish.
Address: Green Island National Park, Green Island 4871, Australia
From $ 65
Paronella Park
Deep in the heart of the rainforest near Cairns lies a real Spanish castle. Paronella Park was the brainchild of José Paronella, who – with dreams of building a castle and leisure gardens for the community to enjoy – began building his castle in the 1930s.
Paronella Park has undergone many constructions and reconstructions. Parts of the park have been destroyed by no less than three cyclones, a fire, and floods since José Paronella completed his park, but it has bounced back to relive its former glory. The park has won multiple awards for ecotourism, and is one of the most popular attractions around Cairns.
Visiting Paronella Park today shows off the many original and restored features of José Paronella’s dream. Extensive tropical garden, picnic areas, tennis courts, a cinema, a ballroom and more are on show, including more modern additions such as a museum. There are over five hectares of gardens in which visitors can picnic, a café offering local produce and even camping grounds.
Practical Info
Paronella Park is located 120km south of Cairns at Mena Creek. The park is open daily (except Christmas Day) from 9am-7:30pm. Entry is $42 for adults and $21 for children up to the age of 15, though family deals are available. On arrival, visitors are taken on a complimentary, 45-minute storytelling tour that details the history of the park.
Address: 1671 Japoon Vale Road, Mena Creek, Queensland, Australia
Hours: Daily 9am-7:30pm
Admission: $42 for adults, $21 for children up to the age of 15
From $ 102
James Cook Museum
Those wanting to learn the legacy of Cooktown’s namesake will find everything they need and more at the James Cook Museum, devoted to preserving the town’s rich history and heritage. Housed in the painstakingly restored 19th-century Sisters of Mercy convent building, the museum tells the story of how Cook and his 86-strong crew spent 48 days marooned on the Northern Queensland shore in 1770, as they repaired their ship, the HMS Endeavour.
Exhibitions detail the fateful events of Cook’s stay, including the repairing of the Endeavour, the early encounters between the British explorers and Australian Aboriginals, and the first sightings of native Australian animals like kangaroos and dingos. Additional galleries cover Cooktown’s history, from the heritage of the indigenous Guugu Yimithiir people to the 19th century Palmer River gold rush, and the role of Chinese immigrants. Highlights include the Endeavour’s original anchor and cannon, and a series of personal stories and artifacts from local families, as well as a terrace café and gift shop.
Practical Info
The James Cook Museum is located on Helen Street in Cooktown, North Queensland and is open daily April to Oct from 9am-4pm; Nov to Jan and March from 9.30am to 4pm; and Feb from 10am-1pm. Admission is AU$10 for adults, AU$3 for children.
Address: 50 Helen St, Cooktown QLD 4895, Australia
Hours: April-Oct: 9am-4pm; Nov-Jan, March: 9.30am-4pm; Feb: 10am-1pm
Admission: Adults: AU$10; Children: AU$3
From $ 219
Kuranda
The picturesque mountain town of Kuranda is tucked into forest-clad hills 16 miles (25 kilometers) northwest of Cairns in Queensland, Australia. The journey to Kuranda is part of its appeal; visitors get spectacular views of lush forests and towering waterfalls, whether traveling there by train, skyrail, or road. The laid-back town is known for its outdoor markets, eateries, wildlife tours, and alternative vibe.
The Basics
Kuranda is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Cairns. Shoppers can browse art galleries, boutiques, and open-air markets for handicrafts, didgeridoos, and Aboriginal art, while nature lovers can explore Australian wildlife in parks and nature preserves nearby. (Both Kuranda National Park and Barron Gorge National Park form part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.) Many travelers opt to ride an enclosed gondola on the 4.5-mile (7.5-kilometer) Skyrail Rainforest Cableway from Kuranda to Smithfield (1.5 hours with stops at its rain forest stations) or round-trip. Among Kuranda’s other popular attractions are the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda Koala Gardens, the Reforestation Nature Park, and Birdworld Kuranda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kuranda is a kid-friendly destination with activities for all ages, from animal lovers to souvenir shoppers.
- Wear sturdy shoes for strolling around Kuranda and nearby park attractions, where most, but not all, paths are well-maintained with wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- Although Kuranda tends to be cooler than the coast, summers are still hot, with January the warmest month.
How to Get There
To get to Kuranda from Cairns in style and enjoy the scenery, ride 90 minutes one-way on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. The 1-hour and 45-minute train trip chugs from downtown Cairns through Barron Gorge National Park to Kuranda, offering clear views of landmarks such as Barron Falls and Stoney Creek Falls. By car or bus, it’s about 30 minutes to Kuranda from Cairns.
When to Get There
Kuranda’s mild climate allows for year-round activity, but the summer wet season from January to March is considered the best time to see Kuranda’s rain forest. The winter months span June to August.
Wildlife in Kuranda
To see wildlife in Kuranda, head to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, which shelters thousands of butterflies, or the Rainforestation Nature Park, which offers boat tours and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. At Kuranda Koala Gardens, travelers can get close to koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles under the supervision of trained professionals. Head to the Barron River from Kuranda’s town center to take a wildlife-spotting cruise and see freshwater crocodiles, water dragons, and tropical birds.
Address: Condoo Street, Kuranda 4881, Australia
From $ 15
Flames of the Forest Cultural Experience
In a beautiful marquee under the brilliant stars you will dine in the rainforest at Flames of the Forest.
The rainforest setting will influence both the meal and the entertainment. The meal will feature heavily produce from the surrounding area and the rainforest itself. Ingredients like banana prawns and lemon myrtle pepper the delicious and adventurous menu and fine local wines are carefully chosen to complement the meal.
The entertainment takes the form of a cultural experience where local Aboriginal men will come and share the history and their personal stories about the local area.
The sounds of the rainforest will be all around you as you indulge in one of Australia's finest gourmet and cultural experiences.
There is no public transport to Flames of the Forest, instead they will pick you up from your accommodation on a bus and drive you to the site, they will also drop you home.
Address: Australia
Hours: Closed Jan - Mar
From $ 142
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Soaring through the treetops of Barron Gorge National Park, the 4.7-mile-long (7.5-kilometer) Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers an unforgettable outdoor experience. Glide over North Queensland’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed tropical rain forest and enjoy unbeatable aerial views over its forests, gorges, and waterfalls.
The Basics
A one-way ride on the scenic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway takes around 90 minutes, including the ranger-guided boardwalk tours available at Red Peak Station. Two ticket types are available: Standard (in regular panoramic gondolas that seat six people) or Diamond View (in special glass-floor gondolas that seat five).
Tours that include the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway typically run from Cairns, Port Douglas, or the Northern Beaches. A popular choice for a day tour is to ride the Skyrail to Kuranda, then return via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Myriad packages also include Kuranda attractions such as Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Birdworld aviary, or Koala Gardens. You can also combine a Skyrail ride with a thrilling helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef, tickets to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, or an Army Duck Rainforest Tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gondolas leave every 15 minutes but advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak times.
- Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, especially if you plan on enjoying the boardwalk tours, but pack light—large bags and luggage are prohibited on the gondolas.
- Restrooms, snack bars, and gift shops are available at each station.
- The Skyrail is accessible to wheelchair users, and complimentary wheelchair rental is available upon request.
How to Get There
The main starting point for the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is the Smithfield Terminal, about a 15-minute drive northwest of Cairns or a 50-minute drive south of Port Douglas. Shuttle buses run from Cairns, the Northern Beaches (excluding Holloways Beach, Machans Beach, and Yorkeys Knob), and Port Douglas, but most guided tours include round-trip transportation from your hotel. You can also board the Skyrail at Kuranda station and follow the same route in reverse.
When to Get There
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway runs year-round. The busiest time is during the peak summer season (December and January), when opting for an early-morning time slot will help you avoid the crowds and the hottest part of the day. The gondolas are fully enclosed and umbrellas are available at the stations during rainy days, so don’t be put off by the weather—in fact, the rain forest is often even more impressive on a rainy or misty day.
The Skyrail Experience
After setting out from Smithfield Station, enjoy views that stretch as far as Cairns, the Coral Sea, and the start of the Great Barrier Reef. After around 10 minutes in the air, arrive at the Red Peak Rainforest Station, where you can explore the rain forest on an optional ranger-guided walking tour (included in the ticket price). Continue on the Skyrail to Barron Falls Station, where lookout points afford dramatic views over Barron Falls and Barron Gorge National Park, and the Rainforest Interpretation Centre offers insight into the region’s unique geology. Finally, arrive at Kuranda Terminal, where you can spend time discovering Kuranda Village, perhaps enjoying lunch at a restaurant looking out over the rain forest, browsing the traditional markets, or visiting one of the wildlife reserves.
Address: Captain Cook Highway & Cairns Western Arterial Road, Smithfield, Queensland 4878, Australia
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
Kuranda Koala Gardens
When compared to bustling, coastal Cairns, the village of Kuranda is truly a magical getaway into the forest. At the small but popular Kuranda Koala Gardens, you can infuse your day trip from Cairns to Kuranda with a wildlife adventure, where you can walk through the snake house, observe wombats and ‘roos, and perhaps catch a glimpse of toothy, freshwater crocodiles as they cruise the Kuranda waters. Although Viator tours do not include this activity, visitors can also spend a few seconds holding a koala for an additional fee of $20.
Insider Tip: Crowds tend to be lighter in the morning and the animals are usually more active.
Practical Info
The Kuranda Koala Gardens is located by the Kuranda Heritage Markets, about a ten-minute walk from Kuranda village, or a 40-minute drive northwest from Cairns. You can also reach the gardens by Skyrail or the Kuranda Railway. A free shuttle bus operates between the Skyrail station and gardens, and buses depart every 15 minutes between 10:30am and 3pm. The gardens are open every day from 9am to 4pm, and admission costs $18 for adults and $9 for children.
Koala encounters are supervised by park staff, and comply with the Australian Government’s Code of Practice. You are welcome to bring your own camera for photos, but you only have a couple of seconds to snap a pic with a koala.
Address: Heritage Markets/ 2-4 Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda QLD 4881, Australia
Hours: 9am–4pm daily
Admission: Adult: $18, Child: $9
From $ 24
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Winding its way through the ancient rainforests, dramatic gorges, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes of Queensland’s tropical north, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Australia’s most spectacular train journeys. Running 23 miles (37 kilometers) from Cairns in the south to Kuranda in the north, the route is a thrilling one. As it passes through an impressive 15 tunnels and across 37 bridges, the railway affords panoramic views of the Barron Gorge National Park.
The Basics
Most tours set out from Cairns, Port Douglas, or the northern beaches, from where it’s a two-hour one-way journey to the end of the line at Kuranda. Passengers can choose standard heritage carriages or the more luxurious Gold Class or Royale Class service, in which refreshments are served. For the best value, combine your tour with other North Queensland activities such as a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, an Army Duck tour of the Rainforestation Nature Park, a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, or a visit to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English-language commentary is provided on the train.
- Luggage space is limited, so bring a day bag and be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes if you plan on exploring the rainforest.
- Wheelchair access is available at all stations except Barron Falls station, but it must be requested in advance.
How to Get There
It’s possible to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway in either direction, starting your journey at Cairns Station, Freshwater Station, or Kuranda Station. Cairns Station is located right in the center of Cairns, about five miles (eight kilometers) or a 1-hour train ride south of Cairns Airport.
When to Get There
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs twice daily, with morning departures from Cairns and afternoon departures from Kuranda. Trains run year-round, but with no air-conditioning on-board the historic trains, it can get hot in summer.
Natural Landscapes of the Wet Tropics
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs right through the heart of the UNESCO-protected Wet Tropics, climbing through the jungle-clad mountains of the Barron Gorge. Jump off along the way to marvel at the Barron Falls, admire Stoney Creek Falls, or take a hike through the ancient woodlands, looking out for wildlife such as rainbow lorikeets, wild orchids, and Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos.
Address: Bunda St, Cairns, Queensland 4870, Australia
Hours: Open daily 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Admission: Varies
From $ 22