Kuranda Scenic Railway

The Basics

Most tours set out from Cairns, Port Douglas, or the northern beaches, from where it’s two hours to the end of the line at Kuranda. Passengers can choose standard carriages or more luxurious service. Combine your tour with 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 with 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 you must request it 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 in the center of Cairns, about 5 miles (8 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 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 see 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.

Ways to explore

You'll likely board the train in Cairns or at the nearby Freshwater Railway Station before riding to Kuranda. Aboard the train, there are two carriage classes available: the standard Heritage Class, or Gold Class, which offers light refreshments among other amenities. If you’d rather spend longer than half a day in Kuranda, you can book your ticket 1-way and spend the night in the peaceful rainforest town. Be aware that only two trains leave Cairns in the morning, and two leave Kuranda in the afternoon, so plan accordingly.

Accessibility

A wheelchair-accessible carriage is available; however, some stops have different platform heights to board the train. Upon booking, you can let the railway know if you will need assistance at any point.

Age limits

There are no age limits—children travel free until age 3, and from 4 to 14, there is a reduced fare.

What to pack

Water, snacks, sunscreen, credit card, camera, sunglasses, hat

What to wear

Comfortable clothes for exploring the rainforest, shoes with good tread

Not allowed

Large luggage that won’t fit beneath your seat, bicycles

Amenities

Water fountains, cafés (at stations), bathrooms

Address 

Cairns Railway Station is located in downtown Cairns, next to the Cairns Central Shopping Mall. Free parking is available—be sure to give your vehicle registration when collecting your train ticket.

Driving

If you’re coming from out of town and heading south into Cairns, take the National Route 1—it turns into Sheridan Street. From there, turn right onto Alpin Street, and then turn left into the parking area.

Public transportation

Most major bus lines terminate at the mall, including regional buses from nearby cities and towns. It’s also a short walk for most people staying within downtown Cairns.

Best times to visit

You have limited options, as the train only runs twice a day in each direction. Opt for the early departure if you want to maximise your time in Kuranda, but if you’d rather leave later, either time is fine.

Best days to visit

Try to visit on weekdays—locals receive reduced fares, so the weekends tend to fill up.

Best months to visit

Visit in July or August—the end of the dry season means you likely won’t be rained out, and the temperatures won’t be too high.

Special events

There are no special events on the train, but Kuranda Amphitheatre regularly hosts events and shows, so check their calendar while planning your trip.