Kuranda Tours And Attractions
A visit to Kuranda Village is one of the top 3 iconic tourist attractions of Cairns and Tropical North Queensland and no matter how you get here you are sure to be pleased with what you will discover in this quaint rainforest village in the mountains behind Cairns.
There is so much to see and do in Kuranda you may even wish to explore the village over 2 days or even spend the night on the beautiful Atherton Tablelands so you can do some of the rainforest walks and river cruises around Kuranda over 2 days.
Initially before tourism really took off in Cairns local people came to admire the Barron Falls and spend time in the cool rainforests and admire the natural attractions, while artisans or hippies were attracted to live in the region for its remoteness yet village like atmosphere and access to Cairns. The hippies created an environment that was based on growing, sharing, creating, and entertainment for each other and it became a really nice warm community that others became attracted to.
That easy going vibe is still the culture of Kuranda Village today and as you walk around and speak to the locals you too will feel the warm relaxed embrace of the village residents even though the village is now recognised as a huge tourist attraction 364 days of the year.
Things to Do and See in Kuranda Village
Before you plan a trip to Kuranda you will need to know what there is to see and do in the village as that will assist you to choose the right tour and allow the right number of hours for you to see and do everything you would like to experience. You also need to look at how to get to Kuranda, if you have your own rental car, or if you require a coach pick up from your Cairns or Port Douglas accommodation.
If you are a first time visitor we recommend a full day tour to enable you to explore every possible thing in the village and not be hurried. If you are a hiker or bush walker you may wish to follow some of the rainforest trails and visit the lookouts over the Barron River or if you are short on time and would like a tour that shows you every attraction possible then we recommend a Kuranda combo package tour.
Kuranda has something for everyone from young to old and in between and for the animal lovers there is a native Australian wildlife park called the Koala Gardens where you can cuddle a koala and have your photo taken, Birdworld is another unique attraction built as close as possible the natural rainforest habitats of the birds and this is the place you may see a pre-historic bird called the Cassowary and other species endemic to Tropical North Queensland.
Children especially love the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and we advise all of our guests to wear either a white, pink or red shirt as these are the colours that the butterflies are attracted to. The Australian Venom Zoo is another favourite with the kids as they seem to be attracted by the scariness of it all. Here they can view deadly snakes, spiders and scorpions and take a guided tour.
The Kuranda Village Markets are certainly a very big drawcard and they are open from 9.30am until 3.00pm. Here you can pick up some great local handcrafted souvenirs, sample yummy local gronw and produced foods, listen to some great buskers, have a massage, and taste the worlds hottest chillies.
Kuranda has many talented people who have escaped the demands of city life in order to follow their muse and live in this community to produce their arts and craft, open up galleries and teach others how to become artisans. Likewise the Djabugay Aboriginal tribe who have lived in these rainforests for centuries have the Doongal Aboriginal Art & Artefacts gallery where you may buy genuine artwork from Aboriginal artists all over Australia.
If you love shopping then you will not be disappointed as you may buy some locally made sustainable and recyclable clothing, hand-made sweets and treats, hand crafted jewellery and opals, souvenirs and gifts for the folks back home
When your tummy begins rumbling you have no end of cuisine choices to satisfy the hunger pains, and as we are in a tropical environment you will find some really lovely garden settings for you to sit back and sample the local fare with an icy cold drink. Kuranda has around 27 restaurants and cafes where you can sample a crocodile or emu burger, vegan and vegetarian fare, a big juicy steak at the pub or sweet and savoury crepes and lots of other food choices.
At various times of the year this little village comes alive with events such as Blues and Reggae festivals, the big Easter Egg hunt, the Kuranda Festival and big name artists like Midnight Oil play in the Kuranda Amphitheatre to the delight of locals and tourists alike
How To Get to Kuranda Village
There are several ways to go on a Kuranda tour but the most exciting way is to book the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Skyrail Gondola Rainforest Cableway. If you have your own rental car you may self-drive to one of these transfer stations and make your way up the mountain, please note however you have to pre-book your coach transfer in between each station as they are approximately 7-10 kilometres away from each other and when you come down from the mountain you will need to be returned to your vehicle on the coach.
There are two places you may catch the Kuranda train and one is the Cairns Station and the other the Freshwater Station in Kamerunga. The Skyrail terminal is located at Smithfield in the Cairns northern beaches area.
Dependant on where you are staying either Cairns, Palm Cove, Northern Beaches or Port Douglas there are a number of choices of tour operators who will come and collect you from your accommodation and provide all the passes and ticketing required for these two attractions.
Each of these tours differ in the number of hours guests can spend in Kuranda and the optional extras that are available to make your day even more exciting and enjoyable. So if you are on a budget and just looking for the cheapest way to visit Kuranda we have those options or if you really wish to experience everything and be guided and looked after then we have those tours also.
For more information on “All You Need to Know” about Kuranda take a peek at our blog here, browse the Kuranda tour options above or call our Kuranda holiday specialists on 1300 761 612 and we will help you choose the right tour for you.
Ultimate Kuranda Day Tour | Train, Skyrail, Rainforestation & Butterfly Sanctuary | TW | CKBB
- Departs From: Cairns
- Duration:
10.5 hours (approx)
The best value Ultimate Kuranda Tour makes sure you don’t miss out on a thing. Visiting Kuranda via the Scenic Railway train and experience both the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and the fabulous Rainforestation Wildlife and Aboriginal Cultural Park, and then heading back to Cairns via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway gondola over the canopy of the rainforest – this is the best Kuranda day tour for sure!
Kuranda Coach Tour | Wildlife Park | Butterfly Sanctuary | Aboriginal Culture | TW | RBB
- Departs From:
- Duration:
8.00 hours (approx)
Kuranda tours & attractions (1) Coach ride up the Kuranda mountain range from Cairns hotels and resorts around 8.30am (self drivers in northern beaches can be collected from Freshwater Train Station) (2) Return coach back down the mountain range. (3) Visit Rainforestation Nature Park (4) 30 minute Aboriginal Cultural tour (5) Amphibious Army Duck Tour (6) Choice of bus trip to Kuranda Village to see Butterfly Sanctuary and spend time in Kuranda Village (7) Optional lunch at Rainforestation Nature Park instead of Kuranda visit.
Kuranda Tours | Coach Tour | Wildlife | Aboriginal Culture | TW | R1B
- Departs From:
- Duration:
8.5 hours (approx)
(1) Coach up the mountain and coach down the mountain perfect for those guests scared of heights. (Guests self driving from Cairns Northern Beaches can be met at Freshwater Train Station) (2) Visit to Rainforestation Nature Park (3) 30 minute Aboriginal cultural tour (4) 45 min to 1 hour Amphibious army duck tour (5) Choice of afternoon in Kuranda (No Free Entry to Butterfly Sanctuary) or stay at Rainforestation Nature Park and upgrade to lunch and other park activities.
Kuranda Tours | Kuranda Train | Skyrail Rainforest Cableway | Kuranda Village | VSQ/VQS
- Departs From: Cairns & Northern Beaches
- Duration:
Varies depending on option selected
Free Kuranda Boarding Pass 10% discount Birdworld, Koala Gardens, & Butterfly Sanctuary. Biggest choice of the most convenient times for coach pick ups from holiday accommodation in Cairns & the Northern Beaches. Choose the number of hours you wish to spend wandering in Kuranda Village streets & markets. Skip the queue tickets for the Kuranda Scenic Railway (upgrades to Gold Class carriage available) with pre-allocated seating and carriage. Skip the queue tickets for Skyrail Rainforest Gondola (upgrades to Diamond View glass floor gondola available)
Kuranda Tours SELF DRIVE | Kuranda Train | Skyrail Rainforest Cableway | Kuranda Village | VSD
- Departs From:
- Duration:
Varies depending on option selected
(1.) Self drive Kuranda tour. Park your hire car at Skyrail and hop the coach transfer to the Freshwater train station (2.) Free Kuranda Boarding Pass 10% discount Birdworld, Koala Gardens, & Butterfly Sanctuary. (3) Skip the queue Skyrail & Train tickets with pre-allocated seating and pre-allocated carriages (Upgrade options for the Skyrail Diamond View gondolas and upgrade to Gold Class carriages on the Kuranda train) (4.) Choose to spend 2.5 or 4 hours in Kuranda Village (5.) Skip the queue tickets for the Skyrail Rainforest cableway gondola ride down or up the mountain (6.) Kuranda boarding pass including a map and information about the region. Available in foreign languages
Kuranda Train | Skyrail | Cheapest Combo Deal In Cairns | A1/A2/A2OW
- Departs From: Cairns
- Duration:
Varies depending on how long you’d like to explore Kuranda – between 2.5 - 5hr. Refer to options in departure details.
Cheapest budget Kuranda tour with Free "Skip the Queue" Kuranda Boarding Passes 10% discount Birdworld, Koala Gardens, & Butterfly Sanctuary (1.) Multiple choice of times for coach pick ups from Cairns and Northern Beaches hotels. (2.) Multiple choice of hours to spend wandering the beautiful village of Kuranda. (3.) Skip the queue tickets for the train seating and the skyrail (4.) No upgrade options available for this budget tour This is the cheapest best value combo package you will find for a Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Rail tour anywhere. There simply is no better Kuranda tour deal around!
Cheapest & Best Value Self-Drive Kuranda Tour | Skyrail & Train | A1SD
- Departs From: Skyrail Terminal Smithfield
- Duration:
Varies from 1 to 5 hours in Kuranda depending on the option you choose
A flexible tour option, allowing you to drive yourself to the designated meeting point, start as early or late as you like, and decide which of Cairns’ iconic experiences – the Kuranda Scenic Railway or Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – you’d like to travel aboard first. Once in Kuranda enjoy this small village in the Rainforest with so much to offer: markets, shops, the Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld and Koala Gardens.
Kuranda Tour From Port Douglas | Train & Skyrail | SELF DRIVE | DUT KSD
- Departs From: Self Drive from Port Douglas
- Duration:
Varies depending on option selected
Kuranda tour from Port Douglas with Free Kuranda Boarding Passes, 10% discount Birdworld, Koala Gardens, & Butterfly Sanctuary (1.) Self-drive from Port Douglas to either the Kuranda train or the Skyrail Station (2.) Collect your "Skip the Queue" tickets from our team (3.) Do not go inside for tickets we meet you outside (4.) Skip the queue tickets offer pre-allocated carriage seating on the Kuranda train (5.) Coach transfers between Skyrail and Train (6.) Lot's of times and combinations to choose from for departure and return on both train and skyrail (7.) Spend as little or as long as you like exploring Kuranda Village (8.) Choice of upgrades to Diamond View glass floor Skyrail or Gold Class Carriage on the train
The Summit B&B
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation. The Summit Bed and Breakfast is an exclusive rainforest retreat nestled high in the hills of the Atherton Tablelands (Cairns Highlands) Tropical North Queensland. The Summit B&B offers unique ‘non hosted’ bed and breakfast accommodation, or the spacious three/four bedroom ‘Queenslander’ home that can be hired exclusively as a private holiday retreat. The Summit Bed and Breakfast is nestled amongst endangered Mabi Rainforest, and features direct access to Hallorans Hill Conservation Park – a unique geological wonder that features an extinct volcanic cone.
The Summit Bed and Breakfast is a large open plan three/four bedroom timber pole home. This distinctive ‘Queenslander’ style home boasts a large outdoor wrap around veranda offering guests unlimited enjoyment of the surrounding pristine wilderness. The luxurious interiors of the fully self contained Summit Bed and Breakfast feature large living areas, a fully self contained gourmet chefs’ kitchen and internal laundry. Warm timber floor boards feature throughout and the holiday retreat boasts central cooling and heating to optimize guests comfort. Every room at the Summit Bed and Breakfast offers guests panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, the perfect backdrop for a relaxing Tropical North Queensland escape.
Call us direct for current specials on 1300 780 806
Cedar Park Rainforest Resort Kuranda
Cedar Park Rainforest Boutique Resort Kuranda is exquisitely unique. Featuring gothic architecture reminiscent of the Victorian era, and set amongst lush tropical forest, complete with its own private river and creek, Cedar Park Rainforest Resort is sure to delight guests seeking a nature experience with a difference. Cedar Park Rainforest Resort Kuranda will take you back in time, with its large hallowed corridors that feature gothic arches, stained glass windows and the unique combination of fine wood and stonework.
Cedar Park Rainforest Resort provides a degree of intimacy that no other resort can, featuring only six guest rooms and the potential for only fifteen guests at one time. Weddings and functions are popular at Cedar Park Rainforest Resort Kuranda, as the entire resort can be exclusively hired for the ultimate in private enjoyment.
Call us direct for current specials on 1300 780 806
Atherton Blue Gum B&B Atherton Tablelands
Cairns Atherton Tableands Accommodation Choices - Located in the rolling green hills of Atherton Tablelands, Atherton Blue Gum B&B offers a quiet getaway from the city hustle and bustle and in the lush sanctuary of Australia’s ‘fruit bowl’ also known as the Atherton Tablelands or Cairns Highlands. Get back to nature while staying at Atherton Blue Gum and get an understanding of what life in rural Australia is really about.
The surrounding Mabi rainforest, volcanic crater lakes and abundance of wildlife and birds will give you plenty to do while staying at Atherton Blue Gum Bed and Breakfast and the B&B is only 1.7km from the heart of the quaint Atherton Township.
Call for our latest accommodation offers on 1300 780 806
Jabiru Safari Lodge Atherton Tablelands
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation. The Jabiru Safari Lodge is a comfortable, all-inclusive nature experience and has been designed to ensure you can experience the wildlife to its best advantage. To get the most out of the wildlife experience, a minimum 2 night stay is recommended. Your Lodge Host and Reserve Guide will make you welcome and be happy to assist to make your stay memorable and rewarding.
The luxury, African-style, tented safari cabins blend into the open savannah woodland providing comfortable overnight accommodation. Delightfully furnished with high quality private en-suite facilities, insect screens, a fridge and a fan, they utilise natural materials which compliment the warm tones of the safari furniture.
Call us for our latest accommodation offers 1300 780 806
Gumtree on Gillies B&B Atherton Tablelands
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation. Welcome to one of the most unique bed and breakfast’s in Tropical North Queensland – Gumtree on Gillies Bed and Breakfast. Set on a 40 acre property at the outskirts of the heritage listed Village of Yungaburra, Atherton Tablelands.
Gumtree on Gillies Bed and Breakfast boasts four uniquely themed guest rooms set amongst native Australian bush. Gumtree on Gillies is the ideal base to explore the charming countryside of the Atherton Tablelands (also known as the Cairns Highlands), and enjoy a romantic getaway for you and your partner.
The historic Village of Yungaburra boasts a plethora of gourmet foods fresh from the farm, distinctive art galleries and a range of spectacular natural features such as volcanic crater lakes and majestic fig trees.
Call us for the latest accommodation offers on 1300 780 806
The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation Nestled amongst 100 acres of pristine tropical rainforest in the magnificent region of the Atherton Tablelands is The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses and Wildlife Sanctuary. The beautifully crafted eco-friendly timber pole tree houses boast incredible views of the surrounding forest and overlook the flowing waters of the Ithaca river. The pristine forest that envelops the tree houses is home to a myriad of exotic wildlife. Experience Mother Nature without leaving the sanctuary of your private luxurious rainforest chalet. Watch the exotic forest bird’s sweep and soar through the canopy of the forest trees, or witness the butterflies flitter and flutter through the native Australian flora.
The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses seamlessly blend in with the pristine natural environment, offering guests the opportunity to experience the magnificence of the rainforest while leaving no ecological footprint. Achieving the ‘Advanced Eco-tourism’ accreditation, a holiday at The Canopy Rainforest Treehouses and Wildlife Sanctuary allows guests the peace of mind that they will leave only footprints and take only memories.
Call for our latest accommodation offers on 1300 780 806
Tinaroo Sunset Retreat
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation Includes Welcome Breakfast Hamper, Chocolates!
Located on the Cairns Atherton Tablelands with stunning views over Lake Tinaroo these luxurious 2 Bedroom Retreats boast a tranquil setting with the modern luxuries with a Spa Bath, Wood Fire Place and a Complimentary Welcome Hamper on arrival.
Unwind and relax in a tranquil setting with native birds and wildlife and not to mention the amazing sunsets! The perfect retreat for that special occasion or just to getaway from it all - your retreat awaits!
Enjoy the Luxury, Comfort and Serenity of Tinaroo Sunset Retreat - where all guests enjoy luxurious accommodation.
Call us for the latest accommodation offers on 1300 780 806
Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation Luxury Private Timber Treehouses featuring Spa-baths & Fireplaces including Complimentary Breakfast Hamper for your 1st Morning! Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat offers luxury eco-friendly treehouse style accommodation amongst the Rainforest of Cairns Tablelands. Each private treehouse features the luxury of a spa bath and fireplace and spectacular views of Queenslands highest mountain, Mt Bartle Frere.
Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat is eco-certified, and allows guests to experience the rainforest of Tropical North Queensland while leaving no environmental footprint. Rose Gums Wilderness Eco-Retreat is situated on 230 acres of pristine Australian forest, and is bordered by Wooroonooran National Park, which allows visitors a one-of-a kind wilderness experience complete with freshwater streams, waterfalls and a myriad of exotic native rainforest creatures.
Call for our latest accommodation offers on 1300 780 806
The Summit Rainforest Retreat Atherton Tablelands
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation. The Summit Rainforest Retreat is located just one hours drive south west from Cairns. The Retreat can be booked as a 1 Bedroom Apartment, or a 3, 4 or 5 Bedroom House. The award winning, Summit Rainforest Retreat, has recently been named “Queensland’s most unique accommodation”, and was a finalist for North Queensland’s most deluxe accommodation.
The Summit Rainforest Retreat is located in the Cairns Highlands, also known as the Atherton Tablelands, in Far North Queensland, Australia. The retreat is situated on the highest point in Atherton. You will love the tranquil rainforest setting with its 180 degree panoramic views. Walk through the rainforest to the centre of the crater, enjoy an in-house massage, use the conference facility, or relax by the pool and spa whilst you sip a cool drink.
Call us for our latest accommodation specials on 1300 780 806
Mt Quincan Crater Retreat
Cairns Atherton Tablelands Accommodation Complimentary Breakfast & Home Made Muffins Mt. Quincan Crater Retreat offers the most luxurious 5-star wilderness retreat for couples anywhere on the Atherton Tablelands (also known as the Cairns Highlands). Situated only 4 minutes from the historic town of Yungaburra, these private pole cabins hidden in the rainforest and set on tree tops are built to the highest standards and are fully equipped to make your once-in-a-lifetime getaway as relaxing as possible. The Retreat is a haven for adults only.
Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries and even weddings these romantic timber rainforest tree-houses boast ultimate seclusion and romance.
Call us for our latest accommodation specials 1300 780 806
Sweetwater Lodge Atherton Tablelands
Atherton Tablelands Accommodation Romantic Escape - Located in the Atherton Tablelands a short drive from Port Douglas you will find Sweetwater Lodge offering luxurious accommodation in one of two exclusive private cottages set on 160 acres of private rainforest and native landscaped gardens.
Surrounded by the mountain range of Mt Lewis on the Cairns Tablelands, your eco retreat awaits with stunning mountain views, pristine freshwater creek, bush walking trails, bird watching, wildlife spotting including the elusive platypus, or perhaps just relaxing on your private balcony with your special someone.
Sweetwater Lodge is the ultimate Honeymoon and romantic getaway for your next special occasion.
Talk to us about our latest accommodation offers on 1300 780 806
The Edge at Lake Tinaroo Holiday House
Lake Tinaroo Holiday Homes. The Edge Holiday Home in Lake Tinaroo is a luxury waterfront holiday home located on the lush Atherton Tablelands (Cairns Highlands) only one hour drive from the City of Cairns. Escape the busy city scene and retreat to the rolling green mountainside, where the air is fresh and clean, the waters smooth and teaming with fish and the locals are a friendly bunch – a melting pot of cultures from all around the world. It is rare to find such a pristine natural environment so close to a major city.
The Edge Holiday Home at Lake Tinaroo is an ultra modern stylish holiday house located right on the edge of beautiful Lake Tinaroo. Launch and leave your boat right on the grassy shores of your front lawn; wake up at dawn and be the first one on the glassy water for an early morning ski or spot of fishing for breakfast!
The Edge Holiday Home can sleep up to 14 guests so it is perfect for groups of friends and family.
Call us to discuss your holiday accommodation on 1300 780 806
Gilberton Outback Retreat
ALL INCLUSIVE SUMMER SPECIAL - Experience 5 Star Luxury in your exclusive outback private retreat! Located overlooking Gilbert River in outback Far North Queensland Gilberton Outback Retreat offers a unique outback experience that will stay with you forever. Want to Unplug & Unwind? - this is for you!
Situated on Gilberton Homestead, a seventh generation working cattle station you are welcomed to do as much or as little as you like. Explore the rich history of the homestead with a range of activities available including hiking, fishing, gold fossicking, Aboriginal Art viewing, swimming, or simply unwind and soak up the magnificent panoramic views.
During your stay you are welcomed as part of the family with lunch and evening meals with Lyn & Rob (your hosts and owners of Gilberton Retreat) or enjoy your meals in the privacy of your retreat. Enjoy breakfast with a gourmet breakfast hamper provided each day. All tours and activities during your stay are included for the ultimate outback experience, as Lyn shares her passion of life on the farm in the beautiful Australian outback.
Call us to discuss your holiday accommodation on 1300 780 806