Kuranda Train & Skyrail

Kuranda Scenic Rail & Skyrail is one of the most popular experiences for visitors to the Cairns region. The package combines the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway into a relaxing scenic day trip and one of the world's most beautiful and unforgettable rainforest experiences.

Your package can include accommodation transfers from Cairns and the Northern Beaches or, if you have a car you can drive yourself to Skyrail Smithfield Station and get a shuttle bus to Freshwater station.

The Kuranda train takes 90 minutes to reach Kuranda and you will stop along the way to view the Baron Falls.
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway journey is a minimum of 45 minutes but most people stop at the stations along the way to take in the views and explore the rainforest on the boardwalks. Allow for 90 minutes to get back down to the Skyrail Smithfield Station.

Kuranda Scenic Rail
Kuranda Scenic Rail is one of the most unique rail journeys in Australia steeped firmly in Australian Pioneer history.

Rising from sea level to 328m, the journey to Kuranda winds its way through World Heritage protected tropical rainforest, past beautiful and spectacular waterfalls and into the awesome Barron Gorge. Only minutes away from Barron Falls the train journey comes to an end at beautiful Kuranda Station.

The Kuranda Scenic Rail journey takes one and a half hours to complete and includes an English commentary on the history of the region and the railway.

All passengers receive a a souvenir booklet which includes information on the history of the railways construction, a trip map and a map of Kuranda.

Each carriage is fitted with three media screens to provide passengers with detailed information of the history of the Kuranda railway.

There are also two gold class carriages where refreshments and finger food are served on the journey. Gold class carriages are available on the 9.50am and 3.30pm trains.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is considered one of the best and most beautiful rainforest eco experiences in Australia and the world. spanning 7.5kms over pristine rainforest, this multi award winning eco tour will take you on an unforgettable journey gliding just metres above World Heritage listed tropical rainforest.

Comprising of comfortable six-person gondola cabins, the Skyrail journey will allow you to explore the wonders of an ancient tropical rainforest, and learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse areas on earth. Operating from the Cairns suburb of Smithfield to Kuranda Village, this 1.5 hour experience will allow you to see, hear, smell and immerse yourself in the tropical rainforest environment.

Self-Drive is a popular option for people who have their own vehicle and can save you up to 10% of the cost of the package.

When you book the Kuranda Scenic Rail & Skyrail self-drive option you will need to drive your car to Skyrail Station at Smithfield to meet the tour.

You can park your car at Skyrail for the day at no cost.

Included in the Self-drive option is a shuttle transfer from Skyrail Smithfield to Freshwater Station where the Kuranda Scenic Rail departs.

The Train Journey takes around 90 Minutes and you can choose between an 8:50am or 9:50am departure from Freshwater Station.

After spending some time in Kuranda village you will return to your car on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

When you reach the end of your Skyrail journey you are able to simply get into your car and drive back to your hotel.

The self-drive option is popular as it saves time and costs a little less.

Many packages offer return hotel transfers from Cairns, Palm Cove, Trinity Beach and Port Douglas. This is a convienient option and only costs a little more than the Self-Drive options. Pick-up time will generally be around an hour before the Train or Skyrail departs.

From Cairns Central Station: 8:30am, 9:30am
Cairns Railway station is situated in the heart of Cairns a short walk from most CBD hotels. If you have a car it is possible to have free parking for the day at Cairns Central. Please bring your parking ticket with you at boarding so that Queensland Rail can validate it.

From Freshwater Station: 8:50am, 9:50am
Situated in the nearby suburb of Freshwater, visitors can enjoy a hearty breakfast in authentic antique railway carriages. The Station also includes a railway museum, pioneer cottage, gift shop, and can be hired for a unique function venue. Freshwater Station is the preferred departure point as it has character. There is plenty of free parking here.

From Kuranda Station: 2pm, 3:30pm
Kuranda Station is world renowned for its tropical gardens and historic significance. It is possibly one of the most photographed railway stations in the world.

Freshwater Connection is a popular departure point for pre-organised tours. Situated in a quiet, leafy suburb, amidst tropical gardens and authentic heritage railway carriages Freshwater Connection provides a perfect venue for visitors to enjoy a hearty breakfast and is an ideal way to begin a Kuranda Scenic Railway journey.

Many of Freshwater’s small Queenslander houses were built for railway workers and local farmers in the 1920 & 30s, some with timber from the old Mareeba Hospital. The very large mango trees in the area date from the 1890s. Freshwater Connection was built in 1984 as a tribute to the visionaries and pioneers who built the Kuranda Scenic Railway between 1887 and 1891. Freshwater Connection station includes a museum, and pioneer cottage which provide visitors with an interesting and educational experience.

Kuranda Station is one of the earliest stations to be built in Australia using standard concrete units and is the oldest remaining examples of its type in Queensland. Described as “after the style of a Swiss Chalet, the idea being to make Kuranda a show station”, the station was designed in 1910. A modified version of the design was built in 1914 and included the Passenger Station building, Signal Cabin and Utilities Block.

Ornamental planting proposed in the 1910 scheme, was developed by George Wriede and Bert Wickham, both station masters at Kuranda. Today Kuranda Station is world renowned for its tropical gardens and historic significance. It is possibly one of the most photographed railway stations in the world. The heritage-listed buildings blend with the tropical surrounds providing a relaxed environment to enjoy. The Kuranda Railway Tea Rooms at the station offer a great range of souvenirs and refreshments.

Kuranda is a famous village located on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, Australia. Surrounded by tropical rainforest and adjacent to the Wet Tropics World Heritage listed Barron Gorge National Park, Kuranda is situated just 25 kilometres from Cairns, making it a popular day trip for visitors to experience the region's natural beauty.

Kuranda Village has been attracting visitors for well over a century. Initially people came to admire the mighty Barron Falls, while artisans were attracted to the region's natural beauty. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s Kuranda was popular with alternative lifestylers, a theme that still runs through the local community today.

Here you will discover a variety of natural, cultural, wildlife and shopping experiences. Visitors come to see the Barron Falls and to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the local markets, selling unique souvenirs and gift items.

Attractions in Kuranda Village

Heritage Markets
Market stalls with locally made arts and crafts, Aboriginal art, didgeridoos and Australian hats. Hand-made crocodile belts, Kangaroo fur products, opals, jewellery, soaps and many other great souvenirs. Home to Birdworld and Koala Gardens. Open 7 days – 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Original Markets
Wander through this mini “Village in the Rainforest” and discover funky hand-made wares unique to Kuranda. Clothing, jewellery, curios, craft, massage, food, mini-golf and many more surprises. Drop in and say G’day with a visit to Kuranda’s iconic markets.

Butterfly Sanctuary
Australia’s largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit – home to over 1500 tropical butterflies, with guided aviary and laboratory tours.

Birdworld
Home to Australia’s largest single collection of free flying birds and the giant rainforest cassowary. Hand feeding and photo opportunities available. Over 350 birds roam freely in this rainforest freedom exhibit

Koala Gardens
See Australian’s iconic animals - wallabies & kangaroos, wombats & crocodiles. Actually HOLD a Koala for the ultimate wildlife experience which includes a souvenir photo (extra cost).

Kuranda Riverboat
Wet Tropics Rainforest cruise (45mins). Great photo opportunities. Local experienced guides. Suitable for all ages. Over railway footbridge and down the stairs to jetty located on the Barron River. Cruises depart at 10.45am, 11.45am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm

Rainforestation
An all-Australian experience with three great attractions: Army Duck Rainforest Tours, Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience and Koala and Wildlife Park.

Candy Kitchen
Watch award winning rock candy being made right before your eyes. Demonstrations most days. Made by hand, consumed by handfuls.

Honey House Kuranda
Free Honey Tasting, Live Bee Display, Premium, Medicinal & Gourmet Honeys, Fresh Honeycomb, Beauty Products & Souvenirs

Doongal Gallery
Doongal has the finest collection of Central Australian and Local Aboriginal Art. Extensive collection of didgeridoos and artefacts. Exceptional quality at the best price (The ARK).

Kuranda Original Markets
Kuranda Original Markets had their humble beginnings in 1978 organised by a group of locals to attract visitors to Kuranda and see their hand made arts, crafts and local produce. The original marketeers had to operate their own train service for two seasons, to prove commercial viability of the service to the Queensland Railway Department.

Today the markets are an established icon, operating 7 days a week and proving a huge success with providing employment for local artists and makers as well as raising the profile of Kuranda, which is now recognised as a unique Australian Rainforest tourist destination. The Original Markets has retained it’s atmosphere, with many local artists and personalities making the market part of their lifestyle. Many of the current marketeers have been involved in the markets during the course of the last 25 – 30 years.

This market also has a strong eco-conscious ethic with organic, recycled, natural, holistic and remedial products available here. Crafts people still flock to this mountain top oasis to display their beautifully hand crafted wares. Renovated in 2005, this market has lost none of it’s rustic charm, featuring tropical gardens, mini-golf in the rainforest, gourmet regional fare, and contemporary arts and crafts. You are sure to enjoy exploring this truly memorable destination.

• Where: Corner of Therwine & Thoree St, Kuranda QLD 4881
• When: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 9:30am until 3:00pm
• What: This market has a strong eco-conscious ethic with organic, recycled, natural, holistic and remedial products

Kuranda Heritage Markets
The Kuranda Heritage Markets has been established for over 20 years and is all weather covered. With over 60 traders offering indigenous art, boomerangs and didgeridoos, metal artistry and custom made knives, antiques, demi-antiques and collectables, opals, pearls, precious and semi-precious gemstones, handcrafted jewellery, leathergoods, and beauty & skin products made locally from only the most natural ingredients.

The Kuranda Heritage Markets are also home to the Kuranda Wildlife Experience where you can enjoy a combined day visiting Kuranda Koala Gardens, Birdworld Kuranda and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. The Kuranda Heritage Market is open every day from 9:30am to 3:30pm.

• Where: 2/4 Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda, QLD 4881
• When: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00am until 3:30pm
• What: Locally produced souvenirs, art & craft, jewellery, gemstones & clothing, tasty food.

Rising from sea level to 328m, the journey to Kuranda winds its way through World Heritage protected tropical rainforest, past beautiful and spectacular waterfalls and into the awesome Barron Gorge. Only minutes away from Barron Falls the train journey comes to an end at beautiful Kuranda Station.

• Route: Cairns - Kuranda
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Frequency: Two times daily (See timetables)
• Began Construction: 1886
• Dates of Operation: 1891–present
• Length: 37 km (23 miles)
• Features: 15 tunnels, 98 curves, 55 bridges
• Special Needs: Wheelchair access, Dietary needs
• Kuranda Village Elevation: 380 metres

The Journey
The Kuranda Scenic Rail journey takes one and a half hours to complete and includes an English commentary on the history of the region and the railway.

All passengers receive a a souvenir booklet which includes information on the history of the railways construction, a trip map and a map of Kuranda. The Kuranda Scenic Railway can be joined at Cairns Railway Station or Freshwater Connection for morning departures to Kuranda. Journeys from Kuranda Station to Cairns run in the afternoon.

Each carriage is fitted with three media screens to provide passengers with detailed information of the history of the Kuranda railway. There are also two gold class carriages where refreshments and finger food are served on the journey.

Cairns Central Station
Cairns Central Railway Station is centrally located in the City, adjacent to the Cairns Central Shopping Centre, and within easy walking distance of most city accommodations. The station is home to the Kuranda Scenic Railway, The Sunlander and numerous other scenic rail services such as the Savannahlander.

Freshwater Connection Station
Freshwater Connection is a popular departure point for pre-organised tours. Situated in a quiet, leafy suburb, amidst tropical gardens and authentic heritage railway carriages Freshwater Connection provides a perfect venue for visitors to enjoy a hearty breakfast and is an ideal way to begin a Kuranda Scenic Railway journey.

Many of Freshwater’s small Queenslander houses were built for railway workers and local farmers in the 1920 & 30s, some with timber from the old Mareeba Hospital. The very large mango trees in the area date from the 1890s. Freshwater Connection was built in 1984 as a tribute to the visionaries and pioneers who built the Kuranda Scenic Railway between 1887 and 1891. Freshwater Connection station includes a museum, and pioneer cottage which provide visitors with an interesting and educational experience.

Kuranda Station
Kuranda Station is one of the earliest stations to be built in Australia using standard concrete units and is the oldest remaining examples of its type in Queensland. Described as “after the style of a Swiss Chalet, the idea being to make Kuranda a show station”, the station was designed in 1910. A modified version of the design was built in 1914 and included the Passenger Station building, Signal Cabin and Utilities Block.

Ornamental planting proposed in the 1910 scheme, was developed by George Wriede and Bert Wickham, both station masters at Kuranda. Today Kuranda Station is world renowned for its tropical gardens and historic significance. It is possibly one of the most photographed railway stations in the world. The heritage-listed buildings blend with the tropical surrounds providing a relaxed environment to enjoy. The Kuranda Railway Tea Rooms at the station offer a great range of souvenirs and refreshments.

Wheelchair Access
A limited number of wheelchairs/mobility scooters can be transported on each Kuranda Scenic Railway service in the PWD carriage. Loading area 6 has a ramp to the train platform. a safety cage and hand forklift allow wheelchairs on the train. Car 6 is accessible features an accessible bathroom. There is no access for wheelchairs/mobility scooters to disembark at Barron Falls station. When booking please advise Reservations you require wheelchair access, so that the appropriate assistance can be provided.

1300 Ride Share is a affordable option to transport you from the Railway Station / Skyrail Station to the Kuranda Village. A disabled toilet is situated in the main public convenience complex in Kuranda Village.

Prams & Strollers
Collapsible prams and strollers can be stored under the Heritage Class seats provided they are no more than 25cm in height once collapsed. A limited number of non-collapsible or large collapsible prams and strollers may be accepted on a Kuranda Scenic Railway service. They can be stored in the PWD carriage wheelchair spaces if they aren’t being used for wheelchairs, in the guards van or in the luggage storage section on each service. The acceptance of larger prams and strollers on each Kuranda Scenic Railway service is at the discretion of the onboard staff and subject to available space on the day. For safety reasons, children are not allowed to travel on the train in a stroller or pram.

Kuranda Scenic Rail Timetable

Departures
Cairns station: 8:30am & 9:30am
Freshwater station: 8:55am & 9:55am
Kuranda station: 2:00pm & 3:30pm

Arrivals
Kuranda station: 10:25am & 11:25am
Freshwater station: 3:32pm & 5:02pm
Cairns station: 3:55pm & 5:25pm

Carriage Options

Heritage Class
The original Kuranda Scenic Railway Heritage carriages offer the old world charm of travelling in authentic timber carriages some of which are up to 90 years old.

Inclusions

• Seated in our refurbished Heritage carriages.
• Chilled refresher towel during the summer season.
• Water cooler at the end of each carriage.
• Souvenir trip guide.

Gold Class
Gold Class provides a premium experience for customers wanting that extra comfort, a little bit of luxury, and a the most memorable experience.

Gold Class is only available on the 9:55am departure from Freshwater Station and the 3:30pm departure from Kuranda Station.

Inclusions

• Dedicated host service.
• Individual seating, lounge-style chairs.
• Ambient, historical décor, including timber look flooring, historical photographs and cedar interior.
• Quality refreshments including sparkling Australian wine, beer, orange juice, soft drink, ice water, mocktails, tea, coffee and appetisers and a chilled refresher towel during the journey.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including Kuranda Scenic Railway badge, pen & postcard.
• Souvenir trip guide.

History of Kuranda Scenic Rail
It was in 1882 that the miners of Herberton were on the brink of total starvation, unable to get supplies due to flooding. A route to civilisation was desperately needed for the purpose of meeting ships at the port, to deliver goods to the city and towns to the west, and more importantly to bring back the spoils of the hinterland particularly tin, timber, small amounts of gold and subsequently sugar, tobacco, copper and lead. Adventure bushman and colourful pioneer, Christie Palmerston, was charged with finding a starting point for a railway. The Premier Sir Samuel Griffiths turned the first sod for the line which was to be built in three stages.

Men tackled the jungle and mountains not with bulldozers, jackhammers and other modern equipment, but with strategy, fortitude, hand tools, dynamite, buckets and bare hands. Great escarpments were removed from the mountains above the line and every loose rock and overhanging tree had to be removed by hand. After removing 2.3 million metres of earthworks, creating 15 tunnels, 93 curves, dozens of bridges and 75 kilometres of track, a banquet high up on the bridge with General Sir Henry Wiley Norman, Governer of Queensland marked the completion of Stoney Creek Bridge.

On June 15th 1891, Mr Johnstone, one of three Railway Commissioners at that time opened the line for goods traffic only. Just ten days later, the Cairns- Kuranda Railway line was opened to passenger travel. The original Kuranda Scenic Railway is truly a legendary demonstration of man’s ingenuity and nature’s wonder. The 34km Kuranda Scenic Railway was, and still is considered a remarkable engineering feat of tremendous magnitude.

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is considered one of the best and most beautiful rainforest eco experiences in Australia and the world. spanning 7.5kms over pristine rainforest, this multi award winning eco tour will take you on an unforgettable journey gliding just metres above World Heritage listed tropical rainforest.

Comprising of comfortable six-person gondola cabins, the Skyrail journey will allow you to explore the wonders of an ancient tropical rainforest, and learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse areas on earth. Operating from the Cairns suburb of Smithfield to Kuranda Village, this 1.5 hour experience will allow you to see, hear, smell and immerse yourself in the tropical rainforest environment.

Smithfield Terminal
Skyrail’s Smithfield Terminal is located just 15 minutes from Cairns and 50 minutes from Port Douglas. Features include reservations, souvenir shop, the Canopy Cafe and entry/exit to the rainforest cableway. Coach transfers can easily be arranged from your hotel to the Skyrail terminal. The terminal also has ample car parking space (including oversize spaces for RVs, caravans and campers) should you prefer to self drive.

The Skyrail rainforest journey begins as your gondola glides over sclerophyll woodlands before revealing the splendour of the World Heritage listed tropical rainforest with its dense canopy and magnificent array of flora and fauna. As you ascend the McAlister Range you’ll enjoy spectacular views of tropical Cairns and the Coral Sea (you can even see Green Island and the fringes of the Great Barrier Reef) before gently descending to the first stop at Red Peak Station.

Travelling time to Red Peak Station is approximately 10 minutes.

Red Peak Station
Red Peak Station Skyrail’s Rangers provide regular guided boardwalk tours sharing their knowledge on these ancient tropical forests. Take a look at the diverse array of plant species, including the towering 400 year-old Kauri Pine. Skyrail's 175 metre rainforest boardwalk will allow you to take a closer look at the lush rainforest surroundings including the towering 400 year-old Lauri Pine. Rainforest displays, touch tables and interpretive signage complete your visit to Red Peak Station.

Barron Falls Station
Barron Falls is the most visited place in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. At 260 metres (853 feet) tall, the majestic Barron Falls can be enjoyed from three lookouts with easy access walkways leading you there. You can also visit the Rainforest Interpretation Centre, which Skyrail developed in conjunction with CSIRO. The centre houses touch screen computers and interactive audio-visual presentations providing an informative and fun learning experience to enhance your appreciation of the rainforest.

Kuranda Skyrail Terminal
The Skyrail Terminal in Kuranda is adjacent to the Kuranda Railway Station and just a short walk from the village. Rainforest walking tracks can take you from Coondoo Street in Kuranda, on a gentle 3km circuit through the Jumrum Creek Conservation Park, along the banks of the Barron River and back to the Kuranda Railway Station.

Skyrail Times

Smithfield Terminal to Red Peak Station
Depart: Smithfield Terminal
Gondola travelling time: approx 10 minutes
Distance: 2.7 kms

Red Peak Station to Barron Falls Station
Gondola travelling time: approx 12-14 minutes
Distance: 3.1 kms

Barron Falls Station to Kuranda Terminal
Gondola travelling time: approx 7-8 minutes
Distance: 1.7 kms

Diamond View Gondola
Be amazed by the spectacular tropical rainforest from the unique viewing perspective of Skyrail’s glass floor Diamond View Gondolas. 11 Diamond View Gondolas not only provide guests with panoramic views of the tropical landscape, coral sea and rainforest canopy, but also offer the unique perspective of looking straight down from the treetops to the forest floor below.Diamond View gondolas carrying a maximum of 5 passengers, will depart stations approximately every 7 minutes and passengers travelling on them will enjoy dedicated boarding queues at all terminals and mid-stations.

The Diamond View upgrade is available when booking any tour including Skyrail.

Canopy Glider
Take in this spectacular tropical rainforest adventure from the unique viewing perspective of Skyrail’s Canopy Glider. Accompanied by a Skyrail Ranger and with a maximum of 4 guests, the Canopy Glider combines a thrilling rainforest adventure with personalised interpretation of the plants, animals and history which surround you. Glide above the rainforest in the open-air gondola and enjoy breathtaking, uninterrupted 360 degree panoramic views of the Tropical North Queensland region. This premium rainforest adventure is available to only a select number of guests per day, so please book well in advance. The Canopy Glider operates with 2 departures daily. Check in times are: 9:15am (Smithfield Terminal) and 1:45pm (Kuranda Terminal).

Djabugay Aboriginal Guided Tour
The Djabugay Aboriginal Guided Tour at Barron Falls provides a fascinating insight into the Aboriginal history, language, culture, stories and traditions of the indigenous rainforest people through a personalised, small group [maximum 10 guests per group]. This 40 minute guided walking tour will take you through the rainforest. Walk in the footsteps of the Djabugay people on our natural rainforest trails * and discover “Bulurru” – the Spirit of Creation. The greatest ancestor of all is Gudju Gudju, the Rainbow Serpent. Gudju Gudju could transform into ancestors such as Budaadji, the carpet snake, who created all rivers and creeks of Barron Gorge National Park. Marvel at the traditional bush foods, shelters and Aboriginal history of the rainforests.

Skyrail Trivia

• Skyrail Cableway is 7.5 km (4.7 miles) long.
• It has a total of 114 gondola cabins (103 standard and 11 Diamond View), each standard gondola is capable of seating 6 passengers and Diamond View 5 passengers, providing a carrying capacity of 700 passengers per hour in each direction.
• In November 2013, Skyrail introduced 11 'Diamond View' (Glass Floor) gondolas, taking the place of 11 standard gondolas, each with a capacity of 5 passengers.
• The cableway can operate at a speed of five metres per second (18 kilometres per hour, or 11 miles per hour); however its normal operating speed is much slower to provide guests with the maximum time to enjoy their rainforest experience.
• There are 32 towers in total. The highest tower is Tower #6 at 40.5 m (133 ft) high.
• Red Peak is Skyrail’s highest station at 545 m (1,788 ft) above sea level.
• The Kuranda Station sits at 336 m (1,102ft) and Caravonica Terminal is only 5 m (16 ft) above sea level.
• The steepest section of the cableway has a slope of 19 degrees.
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway has 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) of 40.5 mm galvanised steel rope weighing more than the equivalent of 100 sedan cars. There is a multi-core communications cable which runs in the middle of the towers, between the two lines of haul rope. This carries all the voice and safety circuit communications.
• The cableway is driven by a 383 kW (500 hp) D.C Electric Motor located at each drive station, the Kuranda and Caravonica Stations. Each drive station has a back-up diesel motor and a further auxiliary Hydrostatic Drive.

Skyrail Wheelchair Access
Skyrail gondola cabins can accommodate most standard type wheelchairs. However, due to size restrictions and loading requirements, some types of wheelchairs can not be carried on the cableway. In this case Skyrail can provide complimentary use of a wheelchair (subject to availability) during a Skyrail experience. Please advise reservations staff at the time of booking to confirm your requirements. Please note that wheelchairs are restricted on the coach transfer service and it may be required to book a wheelchair acessible taxi.

Skyrail offers the following

• Optional use of ramp for loading & unloading
• Ramp access to all boardwalks
• Access to the CSIRO Interpretation Centre
• Access to restroom facilities at all stations.

Wheelchair guidelines

• Width cannot exceed 630mm.
• Length cannot exceed 950mm.
• Wheelchairs must have handles
• Wheelchairs must be capable of being tilted backwards
• The combined weight of the wheelchair occupant and the wheelchair must be of a manageable weight to allow cableway operators to load the wheelchair.

Where is Skyrail located?
Skyrail Terminal is located a 15 minute drive north of Cairns city and 50 minutes south of Port Douglas.

How long does Skyrail take?
We suggest you allow 1.5 hours to complete a one-way journey on Skyrail. This includes ample time to explore the two mid-stations.

How long does the Kuranda Train journey take?
The train takes 1.5 hours between Freshwater Connection and Kuranda.

How many hours should I spend in Kuranda?
Most visitors spend three hours in Kuranda. It is possible to opt for no time, up to five hours free time. We suggest three hours. This gives you enough time to have a good look around and have some lunch.

What is there to do in Kuranda?
The main attraction in Kuranda is the Original Kuranda Markets. There are also Heritage Markets, Boutiques, Art Galleries and Cafes. As well as shopping there are wildlife attractions including Birdworld, The Butterfly Sanctuary and Koala Gardens. It is possible to pay for these on entry or pre-purchase a three park pass at a discounted rate. Kuranda also has a river boat cruise, and a pretty river walk. Rainforestation is near Kuranda and a visit is often combined in a Kuranda package. This activity park a 5-minute drive outside Kuranda and is most known for the Army Duck ride among other activities.

Why do most tours include Freshwater Connection railway station?
Freshwater Connection is a 15-minute drive from Cairns City and is a pretty railway station in a semi-rural setting with a small museum and a coffee shop inside a train carriage. This is a much prettier station to start your day. Cairns Central Station is simply a city train station without character. The Kuranda Train sets off from Cairns Central Station, then stops at Freshwater Connection to pick-up passengers before heading up the mountain.

Is it better to take the train up to Kuranda and Skyrail down, or in reverse?
We prefer to recommend the train up to Kuranda in the morning and the Skyrail down the mountain in the afternoon. Freshwater Connection is more lively in the morning with atmosphere, the train is cooler in the morning as it is heritage and not air-conditioned it can get very warm in the afternoon. Skyrail is pretty either way but it is very nice seeing the view of the Coral Sea open up as you come over the mountain. Answer: Train up, Skyrail down

Do the tours including Train and Skyrail include return hotel transfers from all hotels in the Cairns area?
Yes. The only area where transfers are not offered are residential beach suburbs such as Holloways and Machans Beach. Transfers are included from Yorkey’s Knob on cruise ship days but not on any other days.

Will the bus pick us up from our Airbnb address?
It depends on the address. If you’re staying in a holiday apartment it is likely a pick-up will be offered however if you’re staying in a residential area we will locate the closest hotel as your pick up location.

We have our own car. Do we still need a transfer?
Yes, Skyrail Station and Freshwater Connection Railway Station are not in the same location. You will require a one-way transfer. Please book the self-drive option.

We suggest the above option in this listing, where you drive to Skyrail in the morning, park your car free for the day, meet the coach driver who takes you to Freshwater Connection, go up on the train, have free time, come down on the Skyrail and jump in your car and drive back to your hotel. This way, there is no waiting at the end of the day.

Can we do a self-drive tour including the Train and Skyrail from Port Douglas?
Yes, sure. The self-drive tour is the same for guests staying in Cairns or Port Douglas.

Do you have pensioner/senior rates?
Yes, however these rates are not available to book on this instant booking page. Please contact info@travstar.com with your enquiry including preferred date, number of people and if you need transfers and we will respond with a quote. You will need to provide your seniors card on the day of travel.

Is it easy to walk to the main village of Kuranda from the Skyrail and Kuranda Train stations?
Yes, the station is at the bottom of the village. It is an easy 1.2km walk to the top of the village to where the markets are located. 1300 Ride Share is a affordable option to transport you from the Railway Station/Skyrail Station to the Kuranda Village.

Is it possible to take a pram or wheelchair on this tour?
Yes, prams are no problem. Please let us know when booking if you have a wheelchair as we will need to make arrangements for the correct carriage with the wheelchair lift for the train and advise Skyrail.

We are on a cruise ship and would like to know if it’s possible do the Train and Skyrail?
Yes. We access current cruise ship timetables and book many cruise ship passengers on this tour. Please email info@travstar.com with your cruise ship arrival date, number of people travelling and name of ship. We will make sure the timings fit with your cruise ship schedule and send a correct quote. Cruise ships arrive into Cairns Port and Yorkey's Knob by tender.

If we are on a cruise ship and the ship or tender cannot make it into port due to weather will we receive a refund?
Yes, we refund the total when the ship is unable to berth or transfer vessels are unable to provide transfers.

We want to ride in the Army Duck?
Rainforestation is a 5-minute drive outside Kuranda. Army Ducks (amphibious vehicle) from World War II have been restored and guests are offered a ride through the rainforest and then into a small lake. Tours that include the Army Duck will also include the coach to get to Rainforestation. Visitors who prefer an all-inclusive daytrip to Kuranda can also learn about indigenous culture and watch a dance performance, see a number of native animals and have lunch at Rainforestation. Tour packages include the Army Duck and coach transfers right through to all-inclusive day tours.

Can we start the tour in Kuranda?
No. The Kuranda Train departs Kuranda at 2pm and 3.30pm. The 2pm Train from Kuranda would arrive at Freshwater Connection at 3.30pm. Skyrail is a 10 minute drive from here. The last Skyrail departs at 3.45pm. The timing is too tight and this direction does not make sense.

When does Gold Class train run?
The Gold Class carriage is on the 9.50am Freshwater Connection departure. And, the 3.30pm Kuranda departure. If you would like Gold Class please book well in advance as there are limited seats.

How often does Skyrail run the Diamond View gondola?
Diamond view has very limited availability. The Diamond view gondola has a clear floor and is an optional upgrade. The carriage comes every 15 minutes and can seat up to 5 guests.

Are there toilets on the train?
Yes, there are toilets on every carriage.

How many people can fit in the Skyrail gondola?
6 guests can sit in a Skyrail gondola. 5 guests can sit in a Diamond view Skyrail gondola.

Kuranda has a network of interlinked walks that wind their way through the village and into the surrounding rainforest environment. Walks are suited to all ages and fitness levels. Here you can discover more about rainforest Aboriginal culture, understand how Kuranda's market economy came about, access Barron Gorge National Park and 'get up close' to tropical rainforest.

The Village Walk
Showcases the main street and finishes at the site of the original Kuranda markets. Explore Kuranda’s ‘market economy’ and view the adapted tropical architecture of this village in the rainforest.

Jumrum Creek Conservation Park
Walk on boardwalks and graded paths through vine-entwined rainforest to a small creek. Climbing palms twist to the forest canopy, creating a green curtain of foliage.

The Jungle Walk
Passes through a regenerating forest. Connects to the River walk

The River Walk
Offers a pleasant riverside stroll down a tree shaded esplanade.

Rainforest Canopy Walk & Barron Falls Lookout
Connects Barron Falls Road with Barron Falls Lookout via the Barron Falls Railway Station. Suspended high above the forest floor, the boardwalk weaves through the lush rainforest canopy before descending to the Falls Lookout. There are so many vantage points along the platform that a return walk can take longer to complete than the distance suggests.

Booking the Self Drive Option
Cruise ship passengers docking at Yorkey's Knob Half Moon Bay Marina can experience the Skyrail and Train by booking a self drive experience then ordering an uber or taxi to get to Skyrail Smithfield station.

The Skyrail Station is only 10 minutes drive from the Half Moon Bay Marina and should only cost around $20 each way by taxi or uber ride.

Kuranda Scenic Rail Up and Skyrail Down
Included in the Self-drive option is a shuttle transfer from Skyrail Smithfield to Freshwater Station where the Kuranda Scenic Rail departs.

The Train Journey takes around 90 Minutes and you can choose between an 8:50am or 9:50am departure from Freshwater Station.

After spending some time in Kuranda village you will return to your car on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

When you reach the end of your Skyrail journey you can order a taxi or uber back yto the Marina.

The self-drive option is popular as it saves time and costs a little less.