Conde Nast was right, this year we’re looking to level up our holidays and train travel is absolutely at the top of our list. Whether you’ve been itching to escape the icy weather or bookmarking inspiration for your next big adventure—a trip up north is a no-brainer this time of year.
Lush rainforests, towering waterfalls and our favourite part, warm and sunny weather—North Queensland is equipped and ready for your next holiday and what better way to experience the sights than by train.
Enter Kuranda Scenic Railway, the train that takes you through, above and around some of Far North Queensland's natural marvels.
Explore Sights From 327 Metres Above Sea Level
Kicking off from Cairns (Gimuy) the two-hour journey takes you via Freshwater (Bubundji) to Kuranda (Ngunbay) and back, with four tour packages ranging from the railway exploration to all-out sky and ground-level adventures on offer. Get among the rainforest with wildlife experiences and river boat add-ons or see the sights from the sky with a cableway addition to the railway experience.
Immerse Into The World’s Oldest Living Rainforest
Travelling on the Country of Djabugay bama (people), make sure you’re ready for a day of mouth-agape-worthy sites, smells and sounds. Trailing through a heritage-listed railway line that passes through 15 hand-made tunnels and over 55 bridges you’ll see the oldest living rainforest in all its glory.
Experience beyond the sights with the sounds and smells of the rainforest as you pass Stoney Creek Falls (Diwunga), Robbs Monument, Jungara with its 180-degree bend among the mountain and cascading Barron Falls (Din Din) along the way.
With stops at Cairns, Freshwater and Kuranda railway stations, stock up on local experiences like Kuranda Markets, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, or the Kuranda Koala Gardens to fully immerse in the adventure.
Pick Your Level Of Exploration
With Kuranda Scenic Railway the journey is just as important as the destination. With two styles of transport on offer take your pick between Gold and Heritage class.
Experience the over 100-year-old carriages in Heritage class. Take a seat on classic bench-style seats as the audio commentary directs your attention to the sights outside the window. Valued at $55 one way, enjoy a souvenir trip guide and photo stop at Din Din Falls, meaning you can get the perfect family outing and photo done all in one go.
With lounge-style seating, delicious locally sourced food and drinks and a souvenir gift, Gold Class is our type of touring. Kicking off during the 9.55 am and 3.30 pm times you can toast the sights with bubbles before departing for the photo opportunity at Din Din.
A trip to Cairns is not complete without a journey among the rainforest on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Experience the world-famous sites and find more information on their Instagram and website.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Kuranda Scenic Railway and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Image credit: Supplied.