The town of Kuranda is 380 metres above sea level on the Macalister Range, in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforests. It’s known as the “Village in the Rainforest” and is renowned for its thriving arts community.
Artists originally flocked to Kuranda for its natural beauty. The tiny town is surrounded by World Heritage-listed rain forest, mountains and gorges. Today, Kuranda’s streets are lined with shops and galleries that display and sell local art. The town is also well known for its markets, where you can buy arts, crafts and souvenirs. Pick up leather-work, indigenous paintings and handmade jewellery at two different markets. The Heritage Markets is open every day, while the Original Markets are held on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Wander the town’s streets to soak up the relaxed atmosphere. Many of the houses have quirky gardens filled with trinkets and brightly painted walls. Sit at tables under the trees at one of the village’s restaurants or cafés.
There are a number of attractions around Kuranda, including the Koala Garden and Birdworld. Butterfly Sanctuary is home to more than 1,500 winged beauties. Take a walk into the rain forest on any of the marked trails that leave from town.
Don’t miss a ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway that travels through the rain forest, past waterfalls and over the Barron Gorge. The railway was built in the 1890s and its trains are made up of authentic timber carriages. The Kuranda station is famous for its gardens. The station is more than 330 metres (1,000 feet) above seal level and is said to be one of the most photographed railway stations in the world. The train trip takes about two hours between Cairns and Kuranda.
Travel to Kuranda by car, on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or Kuranda Scenic Railway. Free parking is available in the centre of the village. There are also regular bus and shuttle services that operate from Cairns
Kuranda Travel Guide
Visit Kuranda
Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 27 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 24 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 15 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024
Popular places to visit
Rainforestation Nature Park
Why not meet the animals who call Rainforestation Nature Park home during your travels in Kuranda? Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.
Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets
During your trip to Kuranda, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets. Wander the lush rainforests or discover the spectacular coral reefs in this culturally rich area.
Skyrail Kuranda Terminal
You can take time to visit Skyrail Kuranda Terminal during your travels to Kuranda. Discover the spectacular coral reefs in this culturally rich area or enjoy its local tours.
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
Explore the great outdoors at Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and enjoy the spectacular coral reefs during your trip to Kuranda. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Birdworld Kuranda
Explore the great outdoors at Birdworld Kuranda and enjoy the spectacular coral reefs during your trip to Kuranda. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Barron Falls Lookout
You can find out about the history of Kuranda with a stop at Barron Falls Lookout. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Activities
Kuranda Self-Drive Skyrail & Rail Tour
Kuranda Scenic Rail & Rainforestation Tour
Half-Day Kuranda Skyrail & Rail Tour
Small Group Kuranda Tour via Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail
Kuranda Koala Gardens General Entry Ticket
Kuranda: Koalas, Birds and Butterflies Experience
- Rainforestation Nature Park
- Barron Gorge National Park
- Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets
- Skyrail Kuranda Terminal
- Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
- Birdworld Kuranda
- Barron Falls Lookout
- Peter Jarver Gallery
- Australian Venom Zoo
- Cairns Paintball
- Kuranda Candy Kitchen
- Kuranda Arts Co-Op Gallery
- Djurri Dadagal Art Enterprises
- Cairns Cable Ski