Is It Better To Go Up Or Down The Kuranda Skyrail? – Holidays In Oz

Is It Better To Go Up Or Down The Kuranda Skyrail?

One of the most phenomenal and scenic adventures that someone could embark on in Queensland Australia is the Skyrail Rainforest CablewayOpens in a new tab. and the Kuranda Scenic RailwayOpens in a new tab.. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway takes you on a fascinating and gorgeous journey over and into Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage-listed rainforest.

The enjoyment comes from gliding mere meters above the stunning rainforest canopy, before descending into an exploration of the forest floor near Red Peak and Barron Falls. The historic Kuranda Scenic RailwayOpens in a new tab., which first opened in 1891, runs between Kuranda and Cairns.

This gives you ample opportunity to witness the beautiful coastal plains of Cairns and Kuranda, the Village in the Rainforest. As many travellers will attest, the scenic views of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway are immaculate whether you take the ride up to Kuranda, or back down from Kuranda.

Many will suggest that it’s best to consider the fact that the Kuranda Scenic Railway’s train runs up twice in the morning and back down twice in the afternoon, while the Skyrail departs in both directions almost continuously throughout operating hours.

On Average, travellers take the Kuranda Skyrail down from Cairns to Barron Falls. Taking the Skyrail down gives you a view overlooking the Rainforest canopies and Barron Falls. Spend time exploring the Barron Falls at the bottom before hopping onto Kuranda Scenic Railway into the town of Kuranda.

How Long Does The Skyrail to Kuranda Take?

The Skyrail to Kuranda is known to take 1 1/2 hours to complete the standard one-way experience or up to 2 hours for a one-way Diamond View experience. Both of these timings include two stops; one at the Red Peak and another at Barron Falls – at which, travellers can choose to spend as much time as they please, catching the next available Skyrail.

For a round-trip experience, travellers should expect that the entire excursion should take 2 1/2 hours, plus the allotted time one gives themselves to explore Kuranda Village.

How High Is The Skyrail In Cairns?

The Skyrail in Cairns begins at an elevation of five meters above sea level and travels to heights of five hundred and forty-five meters above sea level, making it a truly immaculate and stunning experience to behold.

Where Is The Skyrail Located?

The Skyrail is located at 6 Skyrail Drive, Smithfield. This is approximately fifteen minutes north of Cairns, and approximately fifty minutes south of Port Douglas.

Is Skyrail Cairns Air-Conditioned?

It is worth noting that the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s gondolas are considered to be “naturally air-conditioned“, meaning there will be the opportunity to breathe and smell the rainforest air, as the journey is made. On the other hand, the Kuranda Scenic Railway’s train cars are not air-conditioned.

However, each train car does have windows, which can be opened to bring ease and comfort to the trip of any passenger.

How Long Do You Need At Kuranda?

It is recommended that travellers consider carving out about 2-3 hours in a designated schedule, for a full exploration of KurandaOpens in a new tab. the “Village in the Rainforest“. Individual times in the village will vary by the specific merriment and curiosity of each traveller.

Here, one can discover and take part in numerous activities. There are charming markets, cafes, and places to eat for any food-lover, breathtaking art galleries for creative minds to enjoy, and even wildlife parks where adventurous souls can stop to see truly unique animals!

By Kgbo – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=92942486

What Should I Bring To Kuranda?

First and foremost, it is important to bear in mind the tropical heat, humidity, and weather conditions when on a trip to Kuranda. It is always worth taking the time to forward-plan, especially in terms of the daily weather forecast – particularly in the warmer summer months.

One should always bring plenty of water, as there are no shops on the train or gondolas. Wearing light-weight or cool clothing is strongly recommended, as well as a good pair of running shoes for exploring the village of Kuranda or the boardwalks of Red Peak or Barron Falls. The same can be said of the importance of wearing and bringing all forms of sun protection – sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc.

It is also recommended that folks who plan to trek around the multiple rainforest walks, consider bringing along a form of insect repellent, as some months can be quite buggy. Another excellent suggestion is to bring some form of motion sickness tablets or medication, as some folks find the gondola and train rides can affect them.

In the present day, it is crucial for travellers to remember their proof of vaccination or proof of negative tests. N95 masks are also strongly encouraged, along with disinfectant wipes, hand sanitiser, etc.

Can The Skyrail Be Visited Even If It Is Raining?

The Skyrail should be considered an excellent excursion, regardless of the daily forecast. It’s commonly stated that in wetter weather, the mountain ranges become covered in a layer of mist – which brings a Jurassic Park or Misty Mountains feel to the rainforest below.

The gondolas were made fully enclosed, protecting travellers from even the wettest conditions. Furthermore, at the stops for both Red Peak and Barron Falls, there are complimentary umbrellas handed out to ensure that every traveller has an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

By Fosnez at English Wikipedia – Transferred from en. Wikipedia to Commons by Hanhil using CommonsHelper., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11302364

Does The Skyrail Require Advanced Booking?

It is highly recommended that travellers take the opportunity to book and pay in advance. This is considered essential to providing the best opportunity to secure preferred ride dates, and travel times, and to reduce both the overall waiting times and unnecessary amounts of congestion with other travellers.

It’s worth noting that travellers who book in advance are able to receive a full refund if they choose to cancel prior to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

What Are The Skyrail Hours Of Operation?

The Skyrail daily hours of operation are 8:30 am to 4:45 pm. Peak holiday periods may see extended hours and in that case, there will be additional bookings available on the company website for every traveller’s convenience.

Olivia

We have travelled to many great places around Australia and hope to share our travel tips, hacks, and adventures with you. So come with us as we explore the great down under! Read more about us here

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