Guide to Kuranda

A spectacular way to travel to Kuranda is riding the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway from Cairns. Your gondola will stop at Red Peak, where you can explore the rainforest and the impressive Barron Falls before arriving at your destination. Learn more.

After taking the Skyrail up to Kuranda, hop aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway to make your way back down the mountain. This 19th-century railway winds through the rainforest and waterfalls of Barron Gorge on its way to Cairns. Check it out.

While Barron Gorge rages with white-water, the upland Barron River is placid, as you’ll learn on a 45-minute Kuranda Riverboat cruise. Spot freshwater crocodiles, turtles and water dragons as you sail through the rainforest canopy.

At Rainforestation Nature Park, Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience offers fascinating Dreamtime Walks through the rainforest and dance performances that showcase ancient customs and ceremonies. Learn more about Rainforestation.

Kuranda Koala Gardens is a wildlife park where you can visit wallabies, wombats and even crocodiles. Of course, it’s also home to cuddly koalas and you can even be photographed with them. Book a koala experience. 

Kuranda’s Australian Butterfly Sanctuary houses more than 1,500 butterflies, ranging from common species to beautiful creatures found only in the rainforests of tropical Queensland and neighbouring islands. Spot them on daily guided tours. 

At Birdworld Kuranda, you can observe around 60 species of free-flying birds, including colourful parrots, lorikeets and raucous cockatoos that roam a rainforest habitat alongside a southern cassowary called Jimmy. Explore Birdworld.

For a small town, Kuranda is big on shopping, with two popular markets packed with stalls and cafés. Explore the open-air Original Rainforest Market and the indoor Heritage Market for souvenirs, artisan-made objects and delicious local food.