Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip from Palm Cove
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the rainforest beauty of Far North Queensland on a scenic day trip from Palm Cove. Ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Available options
Sky/Rail
Travel to Kuranda on Skyrail, free time in Kuranda, return on the Scenic Railway (approx. 10 hours)<br/>Pickup included
Rail/Sky
Travel to Kuranda on the Scenic Railway, free time in Kuranda, return on Skyrail (approx. 8.5 hours)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Hotel pickup and drop off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Take in the amazing views of the might Barron Falls from both Skyrail and the Scenic Rail.
2
Stop 2
Take a journey on this heritage railway line that winds through the Rainforest, on a mountain between Kuranda and Freshwater Station.
3
Glide over and through the canopy of the ancient rainforest and marvel at the spectacular views from Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. There are two stops along this gondola journey where you can alight and explore the rainforest from within.
4
Explore the quaint rainforest village of Kuranda, their heritage markets, and local fares. The amount of free time here varies depending on the Option you book.
5
Stop 5
The largest butterfly flight aviary & exhibit in Australia. Situated next to the Kuranda Markets, it is home to over 1500 tropical butterflies. Wander through the aviary's lush tropical gardens and breeding laboratory to learn more about a butterfly's life cycle & behaviour. You can choose to visit during your free time in Kuranda.
6
Stop 6
Visit this wonderful Wildlife park to see iconic Australia wildlife. Feed and pat the tame wallabies and kangaroos. Discover wombats, freshwater crocodiles, lizards, snakes and much more! Koala photos are also available. You can choose to visit during your free time in Kuranda.
7
Stop 7
Immerse yourself in this wonderful free flying bird exhibit. See and enjoy the company of hundreds of rare and beautiful exotic and Australia native species in the lush tropically landscaped setting. You can choose to visit during your free time in Kuranda.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Take a journey through the ancient rainforest in Barron Gorge National Park. Journey via Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and Kuranda Scenic Rail.
What's not included
Food and drinks (unless specified)
Birdworld Kuranda
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Available languages
Written guide
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CMN
JA
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Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
33 reviews
5★
17
4★
10
3★
3
2★
1
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.0
13 reviews
5★
6
4★
3
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time. Our driver will provide your Kuranda Boarding Pass upon pickup.
About Palm Cove
Palm Cove is a picturesque coastal village nestled between the lush rainforests of the Daintree and the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea. Known for its palm-fringed beach and vibrant dining scene, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in tropical North Queensland.
Top Attractions
Palm Cove Beach
Palm Cove Beach is a stunning, palm-fringed stretch of white sand that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, while the nearby esplanade is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located just off the coast of Palm Cove, it offers incredible opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife spotting, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
Nature
Full day
Moderate to expensive (depending on the tour or activity)
Daintree Rainforest
The Daintree Rainforest is an ancient and lush tropical rainforest that borders Palm Cove. It is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including the iconic cassowary. Visitors can explore the rainforest through guided walks, river cruises, and scenic drives.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate (depending on the tour or activity)
Mossman Gorge
Mossman Gorge is a stunning and sacred site located within the Daintree Rainforest. It is home to beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, and lush rainforest walks. Visitors can explore the gorge through self-guided walks, guided tours, or swimming in the refreshing pools.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some guided tours may have a fee)
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is a popular wildlife park located near Palm Cove. It is home to a wide range of Australian wildlife, including crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos, and cassowaries. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, animal encounters, and educational talks about the park's residents.
Wildlife
Half day
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Barramundi
A popular Australian fish, barramundi is often grilled or pan-seared and served with tropical fruits or vegetables. Its mild, sweet flavor makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Dinner
Gluten-free options available
Mango Smoothie Bowl
A refreshing and tropical breakfast option, made with fresh mangoes, yogurt, and granola. It's the perfect way to start a day in the sun.
Breakfast
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Tropical Fruit Platter
A colorful and delicious assortment of fresh tropical fruits, including mangoes, pineapples, bananas, and papayas. It's a sweet and healthy way to end a meal.
Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Snorkeling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef
Hiking in the Daintree Rainforest
Kayaking and paddleboarding in Palm Cove
Beachcombing and sunbathing at Palm Cove Beach
Spa and wellness treatments
Yoga and meditation classes
Visiting local art galleries and museums
Attending cultural events and festivals
Best Time to Visit
May to October
The dry season offers perfect beach weather with warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby rainforests.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Mandarin, Japanese, Indonesian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
AEST (GMT+10)
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Palm Cove is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs or handling large amounts of cash
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Cairns Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles)
By bus
Cairns Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel between Palm Cove and Cairns. Services run frequently throughout the day.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Ola
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Palm Cove Esplanade
Northern Beaches
Day trips
Port Douglas
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day to full day
Port Douglas is a charming coastal town located just north of Palm Cove. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant dining scene, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, shopping, and dining options.
Cairns
30 km (18.6 miles) • Full day
Cairns is a vibrant city located just south of Palm Cove. It is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, offering a wide range of attractions, dining, and shopping options. Visitors can explore the city's museums, parks, and waterfront, or take a day trip to one of the nearby natural wonders.
Daintree Rainforest
30-40 km (18.6-24.9 miles) • Full day
The Daintree Rainforest is an ancient and lush tropical rainforest that borders Palm Cove. It is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including the iconic cassowary. Visitors can explore the rainforest through guided walks, river cruises, and scenic drives.
Festivals
Palm Cove Music Festival • Annually in May
Cairns Festival • Annually in August
Pro tips
- Visit the Palm Cove Markets for unique souvenirs and local produce
- Book a guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest for an unforgettable experience
- Try the local seafood, such as barramundi and prawns, at one of the beachfront restaurants
- Take a scenic helicopter or seaplane tour over the Great Barrier Reef for a unique perspective
- Explore the nearby Mossman Gorge and learn about its cultural significance to the local Indigenous people
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
