Skyrail up, Train down | Self Drive
Travel up to Kuranda Village on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway then back on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Your day starts at Skyrail Smithfied where you board the skyrail Gondola. At the end of the day we provide a shuttle transfer from Freshwater Station back to Skyrail Smithfield in the afternoon where your vehicle is parked.
This Self Drive package is a popular option for people who have their own vehicle. You can park your car at Skyrail for the day at no cost.
Your day at a glance
- Self-drive to Skyrail, Captain Cook Highway, Smithfield
- Park your car free for the day
- Check-in at Skyrail Terminal
- Skyrail journey to Kuranda
- Red Peak & Barron Falls Boardwalks
- Free time in Kuranda
- Kuranda Scenic Rail at 2pm or 3:30pm
- Coach transfer back to your car from Freshwater Station
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Travel in a 6-person gondola cabin with panoramic views and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the rainforest. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway travels between Cairns and Kuranda Village, offering breathtaking views of the city, the Barron Falls, and the lush tropical rainforest below.
The Cairns station is conveniently located at Smithfield, just 15 minutes north of Cairns City. From here, you'll board the cable car and glide just meters above the rainforest canopy, descending through the canopy layers and deep into the heart of the rainforest. You'll be amazed at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you on this incredible 7.5km journey.
Make sure to take advantage of Skyrail's two rainforest mid-stations, Red Peak and Barron Falls. Here, you'll have the ultimate tropical rainforest experience, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem.
Red Peak Skyrail Station
Lush rainforest surroundings including the towering 400 year-old Kauri Pine. Interpretive boardwalk tour with Skyrail Ranger available throughout the day.
- Complimentary Ranger Guided Boardwalk Tour
- Rainforest Discovery Zone
- Rainforest Boardwalk Loop
- Scenic Lookout
Barron Falls Skyrail Station
Enjoy spectacular views of the Barron Gorge, state-of-the-art Rainforest Interpretation Centre, lookouts and historical displays
- The Edge Lookout
- Historical Precinct
- CSIRO Rainforest Interpretation Centre
- Panoramic gorge & waterfall views
Skyrail Kuranda Terminal
Located next to the Kuranda Scenic Rail Station and a short walk from the famous village of Kuranda.
Kuranda Village
Kuranda is a famous village located on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, Australia. Surrounded by tropical rainforest and adjacent to the Wet Tropics World Heritage listed Barron Gorge National Park, Kuranda is situated just 25 kilometres from Cairns, making it a popular day trip for visitors to experience the region's natural beauty.
Kuranda Village has been attracting visitors for well over a century. Initially people came to admire the mighty Barron Falls, while artisans were attracted to the region's natural beauty. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s Kuranda was popular with alternative lifestylers, a theme that still runs through the local community today.
Here you will discover a variety of natural, cultural, wildlife and shopping experiences. Visitors come to see the Barron Falls and to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the local markets, selling unique souvenirs and gift items.
Kuranda Scenic Rail Experience
Kuranda Scenic Rail is one of the most unique rail journeys in Australia steeped firmly in Australian Pioneer history.
The original Kuranda Scenic Railway is a spectacular journey comprising unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls. This famous railway winds its way on a journey of approximately 90 Minutes from Kuranda to Cairns.
Decending from 328m to sea level, the journey to Cairns passes through World Heritage protected tropical rainforest, past beautiful and spectacular waterfalls and into the awesome Barron Gorge.
The journey includes commentary and all passengers receive a commentary companion which includes information on the history of the railways construction, a trip map and a map of Kuranda.
Shuttle Bus and Self-Drive Options
At Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, we strive to make your experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're a self-driver or taking advantage of our drop-off service, we have options to suit all needs.
For self-drivers, we offer a hassle-free experience. After you arrive at Freshwater Station, you'll be taken back to Skyrail Cairns Station, where your vehicle is parked, on our 10-minute shuttle. This ensures that your return journey is just as convenient as your arrival.
If you have been dropped of by friends or a taxi service, you have the option to take our shuttle bus back to Skyrail Cairns Station or continue on to Cairns Central Station.
Reviews
I purchased tickets for a friend and myself to go to Kuranda on the train and return on the Skyrail. The train ride was fine, though I didn't find it very exciting. We did not get to return on the Skyrail due to a potential lightning storm (so all ratings are in regards to the train and not the Skyrail, except for the customer service). We were thankful that they make that decision when needed. Skyrail was able to provide buses to return to Cairns, which was done very smoothly. Skyrail also sent me an email explaining this so I could submit it to Travstar and request a partial refund. That refund was issued without a problem a couple days later. I was very pleased with the customer service.
Really enjoyed this adventure.
Well done.
Cheers
Rob Foley
despite the rany weather an enjoyable trip
The train ride up, with the Skyrail back is the way to do it. A great day out.
Great experience just didnt have a fare from Freshwater station only from Smithfield as a pickup, overall great both train and cable car recommended.
Thks
Rick
Awesome experience with amazing views
Located just 15 minutes drive from Cairns and 50 minutes from Port Douglas. Self-drive passengers will find Skyrail's location easily accessible with free car parking for your Car, RV or Caravan.
Skyrail Smithfield also features an electric vehicle charging station. Please check in 10 minutes before you departure time.
