We start the day aboard the Original Kuranda Scenic Railway ! It is a spectacular journey comprising unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls within the World Heritage listed Barron Gorge National Park.
This famous railway winds its way on a journey from Cairns to Kuranda. The journey to Kuranda takes approximately 2 hours, which includes a 10-minute stop at the spectacular Barron Falls Station for a bird’s eye view of the Barron Falls. Passing through 15 hand carved tunnels, 37 bridges, spectacular waterfalls.
Your ticket includes 'Heritage Class' seats, upgrade to Gold Class for an additional $50 AUD per person **Subject to availability.
The differences between the two tickets is at the bottom of this description.
Arriving in the small town of Kuranda, you will enjoy free time to explore the small mountain towns shops and markets.
Next stop is the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, home to over 1500 butterflies, all of which are bred inside the on-site breeding laboratory. Species include the electric blue Ulysses, the Majestic Green and Yellow Cairns Birdwing and the Monarch butterfly. View first-hand the breeding laboratory through special viewing windows, whilst the expert guide talks about their incredible journey from Caterpillar to Butterfly.
Lunch is delicious and enjoyed at the best restaurant in town.
After lunch we head to the amphitheatre for an onstage performance by the Pamagirri Aboriginal tribe. The traditional dance shows insight into this ancient surviving culture and the connection with the oldest surviving rainforest in the world. After photos with the dancers, we split up into small groups to embark on an in-depth and interactive boomerang and spear throwing experience, your Pamagirri Aboriginal guide will preform a demonstration on the rainforest instrument – the Didgeridoo.
Our last experience of the day experience of the tropical rainforest is from a totally unique perspective aboard an amphibious World War II DUKW, colloquially known as Duck.
Rainforestation has twelve of these historical vehicles, which hold up to 30 passengers and use a 6 wheel drive, propeller, and rudder. During this 45-minute rainforest tour, your knowledgeable Duck Captain will identify and explain fascinating plants and wildlife as you pass by before splashing into the lake for a cruise with more wildlife to be seen.
**Upgrade to the Gold Class Experience for an additional $50 per person.
Gold Class inclusions:
Dedicated attendant service
Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including a Kuranda Scenic Railway pen and postcard
Refreshments featuring a selection of Queensland and local produce such as Gallo Dairyland Cheeses, Skybury Coffee, Wondaree Macadamias, Licks Mango Sorbet, a selection of Australian wines and Great Northern Brewing Company Super Crisp Lager