Kuranda, the village in the Rainforest
- Population: 3008 (2016 census)
- Area: 110.9 kilometres²
- Postcode: 4881
- Distance from Cairns: 28.7 kilometres. Drive time 35 minutes
- Elevation: 330m
- Weather: low July at 10.4 degrees C, and the highest temperature in January of 38.3 degrees C
An incredible journey through the World Heritage rainforest is required to get here. You can drive up the mountain range, take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or the world-famous Kuranda Scenic Railway through Barron Gorge to get to Kuranda. Whichever way you go, be sure to allow plenty of time to see and do everything the Kuranda has to offer.
The picturesque village of Kuranda. A welcoming first stop on the drive up the northern Kuranda Range from Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands.
Here you will find an eclectic mix of village shops and world-famous markets:
- Bush-tucker
- International cuisines,
- Wildlife
- Aboriginal Culture.
The town is an early immersion into Tablelands style.
Discover some history
In the 1880s, the construction of the Railway began. Miners from the west needed transport to ‘civilisation’. Many lives were lost during construction. The development included fifteen hand-made tunnels and 37 bridges.
The total amount of earth excavated was three million cubic metres—quite a feat for those times. Tourists began using the Railway to visit Kuranda in the 1930s.
In the 1960s, it became apparent how good the lifestyle was with cheap living, beautiful scenery and a lovely climate. The ‘hippy’ communes moved into town.
The 1970s brought all kinds of new inhabitants. The town was musicians and artists when the Kuranda Markets began.
Explore world-famous markets
Discover the famous Kuranda Markets and village shopping, rainforest walks, tours and sites while staying in a charming bed and breakfast. Birdworld Kuranda is home to over 350 birds, including a Southern Cassowary, and Kuranda Koala Gardens is a terrific spot to see all of your favourite Australian creatures in one location. One of the few places where you can snuggle a koala is at this location In Kuranda Heritage Markets. You’ll find these two gems.
Here you will find a wide range of artisan products. Locally designed and made fashion and local produce. Also, keep your eye out for hand-crafted jewellery, leather products, woodwork and gemstones.
Here you will find an excellent selection of local produce, including coffee and fruit.
While visiting, why stop by the Golden Drop mango winery and sample mango wine?
There is a range of restaurants and cafes to sample during your visit.
Get up close to Aussie wildlife.
During your visit, don’t miss the natural wildlife attractions. While you are here, you can cuddle a Koala at Kuranda Koala Gardens. Or check out Birdworld, which features an extensive collection of free-flying native and exotic birds. Both venues are selfie-worthy in the company of wildlife.
A visit to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is well worth it. It holds the Guinness Book of Records title as Australia’s largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibits.
The most awesome waterfall in the region is nearby Barron Falls. A spectacular sight during the monsoon season when the Barron River is in full flood.
Local accommodation includes a bed and breakfast, a motel, a camping park, a historic hotel, or a modern resort.
Kuranda map
Nearby towns to visit
