Kuranda
highlights
Culture | Shopping | Attractions | Wildlife
Restaurants and Cafés Arts, Crafts and Souvenirs Indigenous Artifacts and Culture Jungle Walk over Jum Rum Creek
Kuranda’s colourful markets are a major drawcard
The delightful mountain village of Kuranda attracts visitors from all over the world who enjoy its superb wildlife attractions, walking trails, river cruises, souvenir shopping and artists’ galleries. Spend a few days here immersed in Kuranda’s culture - this vibrant and close-knit community has both unique style and engaging sophistication.
The spectacular Barron Falls
Attractions One of Kuranda’s most treasured landmarks is the Barron River and its spectacular gorge; home of the mighty Barron Falls. A river boat wildlife spotting cruise operates from beside the train and Skyrail arrival stations. Wildlife watching is one of the great things to do in Kuranda. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is a beautiful garden aviary containing no fewer than 1,500 colourful butterflies. Birdworld is home to the largest collection of free-flying birds in Australia – some 500 of them – yet its most impressive inhabitant, the endangered Southern Cassowary, doesn’t fly at all. Displays at the Australian Venom Zoo focus on venomous animals - think Australian tarantulas, centipedes and scorpions. BatReach is a rescue and rehabilitation centre operated by volunteers located off the main street. Admission is by donation. Kuranda’s Koala Gardens is ideal for visitors with limited time who want to see Australia’s best known wildlife like koalas, wallabies, wombats, crocodiles and reptiles. Shopping Over the years Kuranda has become a great place to shop. There are bargains to be had here, as well as exquisite artisan pieces at the other end of the spectrum. Spend time browsing at unique stores like the Kuranda Tea House with its fine teas, arts and crafts and admire quality workmanship at Bob’s Woodart which features hand-crafted, mostly salvaged timbers. At the Emu Ridge Gallery, there’s free admission to a fossil and gemstone museum, and you’ll get up close and personal with a nine metre Allosaurus dinosaur skeleton. The markets in Kuranda are very diverse and have been a feature of the village for 25 years. You can start your day at the Kuranda Heritage Markets with a free shuttle from the Skyrail/Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Get up close to nature
Best Kuranda buys are the hand-made local products (look for Ceti bath soaps) and quality Australiana such as opals, wood-art, didgeridoos and other authentic Aboriginal artifacts. You’ll find delightfully soft and supple kangaroo skins and leather products, and for that souvenir t-shirt for anyone back home, you simply can’t go past the range and prices here.
Discover the Atherton Tablelands /Cairns Highlands and Gulf Savannah. For more information visit our website www.athertontablelands.com.au 39