Things to do in
Rainforestation Nature Park

Rainforestation Nature Park

Rainforestation Nature Park: Our most recommended tours and activities

From Cairns: Full-Day Kuranda Army Duck Experience Tour

1. From Cairns: Full-Day Kuranda Army Duck Experience Tour

Start your day with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over a pristine rainforest with the canopy just meters beneath you. It is recommend you spend time at the two stations en route: Red Peak Station and Barron Falls Stations. Once in Kuranda, you will travel to Rainforestation Nature Park via shuttle. Explore the rainforest on a 6-wheel drive World War II Army Duck amphibious vehicle over land and water. Your experienced duck driver will help you search for wildlife and teach you about the plants and trees that make up the surrounding rainforest. After your tour, you can sample exotic fruits and locally made ice cream at a Tropical Treats fruit orchard.  Then, take the shuttle bus from Rainforestation Nature Park to Kuranda Village. Once in the village, you have free time to explore the markets and shops. At the end of your day, you will travel back to Cairns with a ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding through tunnels and over bridges on this magnificent journey, passing Stoney Creek and Barron Falls. Upon arrival in Cairns, you will be transferred back to your accommodation. 

From Port Douglas: Kuranda Tour with Skyrail & Scenic Train

2. From Port Douglas: Kuranda Tour with Skyrail & Scenic Train

Discover the beauty of the rainforest on this day trip from Port Douglas. Ride on the Captain Cook Highway aboard an airconditioned bus, see the canopy from above on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway with 2 stops to enjoy and visit Kuranda Village. Return aboard the Kuranda Scenic Train. Be picked up from your hotel in the late morning and board an air conditioned comfortable bus. Head down the Captain Cook Highway to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Journey over the World Heritage Rainforest and stop for pictures at 2 stations along the way. Arrive in Kuranda and meet your guide who will show you the Kuranda Village. Visit the vibrant markets, see the best places to eat, and visit some small animal parks. Board the Kuranda Scenic Train and head down the mountain. Pass through tunnels and by stunning waterfalls along the way. On arrival at Freshwater Station, head to Palm Cove, a beautiful beach side village where you can stop for a cocktail (at own expense) or take a walk on the beach.  Head back to Port Douglas and arrive at your accommodation in time for supper.

Day Trip: Rainforest & Aboriginal Culture Tour

3. Day Trip: Rainforest & Aboriginal Culture Tour

Experience this enchanting region of Australia and see its wildlife, lush scenery, and aboriginal culture. Explore the rainforest on a 6-wheel-drive World War II Army Duck amphibious vehicle. Your experienced Duck Driver will help you search for wildlife, and teach you about the plants and trees that make up the surrounding rainforest. After your tour, you can sample exotic fruits and locally made ice cream at the Tropical Treats fruit orchard. The Koala & Wildlife Park offers the opportunity to get up close with native Australian wildlife, including wombats, crocodiles, lizards and birds. You can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. Enjoy emission-free travel on the first 100% electric bus in the Australian tourism industry  The Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience is unforgettable. Follow your Pamagirri Guide along the Dreamtime Walk down the Rainbow Serpent pathway and learn how to throw a traditional boomerang. Your Pamagirri guide will demonstrate traditional spear throwing as well as a didgeridoo presentation, followed by an energetic and interactive traditional Aboriginal dance performance in our Rainforest Amphitheatre.  Catch our shuttle to the Kuranda Village where you can visit Kuranda's markets and art galleries, or even the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. Return coach transfers to and from Cairns hotels.

Cairns: Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch

4. Cairns: Best of the Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour & Lunch

Discover some of the finest scenery and fascinating culture of the Kuranda Rainforest on a guided tour. Visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, a Koala and Wildlife Park, and learn about about Aboriginal culture at the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. Start your immersion into the culture and nature of the Kuranda Rainforest with a ride aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Wind through the mountains and rainforest to the village of Kuranda.  Upon arrival, experience Australia's largest butterfly aviary at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary with 1,500 tropical butterflies, including the vibrant green Cairns Birdwing. Next, travel by shuttle to the Rainforestation Nature Park for a barbecue buffet lunch.  After lunch, explore the rainforest by 6WD amphibious vehicle as you climb aboard a World War II Army Duck that can drive over land and in water. Search for wildlife as you learn about the plants and trees of the surrounding rainforest. Then, sample some exotic fruits and locally-made ice cream at the Tropical Treats fruit orchard.  Find out more about Aboriginal culture at the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience and watch spear-throwing demonstrations and traditional dances. Try your hand at throwing a boomerang, and hear all about the didgeridoo. Then, get up close to Australian animals including koalas, dingoes and the endangered Cassowary and Lumholtz's Tree Kangaroo. See typical Australian critters including wombats, crocodiles, lizards and birds. Feed the kangaroos and wallabies by hand. Then, travel back to Cairns on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and ride over the canopy of the pristine rainforest. Transfer back to your accommodation at the end of the tour services.

Kuranda: Rainforestation Nature Park

5. Kuranda: Rainforestation Nature Park

The award-winning Rainforestation Nature Park is a 100 acre (40-hectare) property located in the middle of Kuranda’s World Heritage Rainforest. Locally owned and operated park offers three unique experiences to visitors. Board an amphibious World War II Army Duck for a land and water adventure through the rainforest, as your Duck Captain identifies and explains fascinating plants including ferns, orchids, strangler figs, and the infamous stinging tree. As you move through the water, keep an eye out for turtles, fish, eels and water birds, or for birds, pythons and other reptiles on land. Rainforestation has 12 of the historic Army Ducks (officially spelled DUKW) which hold up to 30 passengers and have a combination of 6-wheel drive, a propeller, and rudder. After disembarking, visit the Tropical Fruit Orchard, containing over 40 species of exotic tropical fruit trees. This tranquil setting provides the perfect opportunity to view and learn about fruits of the region and the world, including jackfruit, pawpaw, lychees, carambola, and star apple. The Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience offers the opportunity to see traditional dance performances in the setting of the beautiful Rainforest Amphitheatre. You can also take part in the Dreamtime Walk along the Rainbow Serpent walkway, then watch a display of traditional spear throwing and didgeridoo playing. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn the art of throwing a boomerang, and try it out for yourself – can you get your boomerang to come back to you? Take a self-guided tour in the Koala & Wildlife Park and see crocodiles, kangaroos, wallabies,  snakes, dingoes, a cassowary, and the only Tasmanian Devils in North Queensland. Rainforestation is also home to a rescued Lumholtz's Tree Kangaroo. Don’t miss Jack the Ripper, one of the largest crocodiles in captivity. Coming in at over 5 meters in length and weighing almost a tonne, you can view him from the safety of our elevated boardwalks. Explore the park at your own pace and hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies as they roam freely through the park.

N. Queensland: Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour

6. N. Queensland: Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour

Explore the depths of the Kuranda Rainforest with rides on the railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and 6-wheel-drive amphibious Army Duck vehicle! Experience this enchanting region of Australia and see its wildlife, lush scenery, and aboriginal culture. Board the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a spectacular journey with stunning views of the Coral Sea, Cairns City, and more. Take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over the pristine rainforest and skim the forest canopy just beneath you! See kangaroos, wombats, koalas, and crocodiles up close and personal. Explore the rainforest on a 6-wheel-drive World War II Army Duck amphibious vehicle, over land and water. Your experienced Duck Driver will help you search for wildlife and teach you about the plants and trees that make up the surrounding rainforest. After your Duck tour, you can sample exotic fruits and locally made ice cream at the Tropical Treats fruit orchard. The Koala & Wildlife Park offers the opportunity to get up close with native Australian wildlife including wombats, crocodiles, lizards, and birds. You can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. Included also is the world-famous BBQ lunch. Go for a walk and learn about Aboriginal culture with spear-throwing demonstrations and ritualistic dances. Take the opportunity to try your hand at boomerang throwing, then visit Kuranda's markets and art galleries, or even the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. Optional extra: For your Kuranda Scenic Railway journey, you are able to upgrade from Heritage Class to Gold Class. Gold Class includes the following: Dedicated host service, souvenir trip guide, a moist towelette, individual seating, lounge-style chairs, ambient, historical décor, including timber look flooring, historical photographs, and cedar interior. Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including Kuranda Scenic Railway badge, pen, and postcard. Queensland and local Tablelands produce such as Gallo Dairyland Cheese, Skybury Coffee, Wondaree Macadamias, Mango to Go (100% pure mango treat), freshly-baked muffins with local fruit, Sirromet wines, and Great Northern Brewing Company Super Crisp Lager.

From Port Douglas: Atherton Tablelands Food & Wine Tasting

7. From Port Douglas: Atherton Tablelands Food & Wine Tasting

Enjoy a food and wine tour from Port Douglas and taste some of the best food and wine that the Atherton Tablelands has to offer. Be taken through various contrasting landscapes from lush rainforests to stunning ochre Savannah plains. The rich volcanic soil allows farmers to grow many diverse crops from bananas, coffee, sugar cane, avocados, mangoes, macadamia nuts, citrus, and more which you will learn about once you taste your way around the region's food bowl.' Our first stop 1 is Rainforestation Nature Park amidst the Kuranda rainforest, a local family-owned business that gives us an exclusive opportunity for breakfast. Set on the balcony of their Tree House restaurant we enjoy a delicious breakfast of Tropical fruits (seasonal) and Wattle seed damper, a selection of tropical jams and local tea and coffee After breakfast taste some unique liqueurs made on-site at their Mountain Groves Distillery Stop 2 Ice Creamery for full breakfast Our second stop is at a family-owned Ice creamery in Emerald Creek. Enjoy a delicious-tasting cup of their homemade ice cream and sorbet. Stop 3: The Humpy The best place to go for freshly harvested Atherton Tablelands produced straight from the growers. From vegetables to tropical fruits and hundreds of different varieties of nuts, dried fruits, locally made jams, and sauces. Taste some seasonal fruits and many different flavors of hot local peanuts and macadamia nuts. Stop 4: Gourmet Lunch at The Australian Platypus Park The Australian Platypus Park is home to a thriving platypus population. Take a wander down to see them in their magnificent setting then sit down to enjoy flavored handcrafted smoked products, combined with a unique blend of local Australian native herbs and spices. These tasty treats are all produced in-house using only the freshest quality ingredients and include Crocodile, Red Claw (Yabby), and Kangaroo with fresh local salads topped off with a ‘Tarzali Lakes’ boutique beer, Dragon Fruit cider, or Lemon Myrtle tea. Then enjoy Tropical fruit wine and liqueur tasting. Stop 5: Gallo Dairyland A fully operational dairy farm spread across 1000 acres of rich red volcanic soil with a gourmet cheese factory. Here, taste a selection of their delicious cheeses and homemade chocolates whilst gazing out over the picturesque landscape. Stop 6: Mt. Uncle Distillery Just down the road, arrive at Australian Distiller of the year 2017, Mount Uncle Distillery, North Queensland’s first distillery. Here you can taste some of their award-winning liqueurs and spirits. Stop 7: Platypus Hut - Queensland wines and beers A unique 160-acre private property. Head down to 'the Platypus Hut' where you can taste some Queensland wines and beer. Then, head down the Julatten range and be dropped back to your accommodation.

Kuranda Pamagirri Aboriginal Premium Full-Day Tour

8. Kuranda Pamagirri Aboriginal Premium Full-Day Tour

Join the longest established coach operator in Cairns, for a full-day adventure to beautiful Kuranda, located in the middle of the World Heritage Rainforest. Your day tour includes a visit to the award-winning Rainforestation Nature Park, where you can take a tour on a historic World War II Army Duck over land and through the water. Your Duck Drivers will identify and explain the flora and fauna of some of the world’s oldest rainforests as you sit back and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Visit Koala and Wildlife Park and see native Australian animals, including koalas, snakes, dingoes, and a cassowary. The Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience is unforgettable. Follow your Pamagirri guide along the Dreamtime Walk down the Rainbow Serpent pathway and learn how to throw a traditional boomerang. Your guide will demonstrate traditional spear throwing as well as a didgeridoo presentation, followed by an energetic and interactive traditional Aboriginal dance performance in our Rainforest Amphitheatre.  Enjoy a personal, in-depth insight into the Aboriginal culture on the Pamagirri Rainforest Walkabout. Learn about traditions, spiritual transitions into manhood, customs, rainforest survival bush tucker, and more. You will also take part in an Aboriginal art workshop with a Pamagirri artist, where you can learn about painting techniques, storytelling, and traditions. You will then create and take home your very own Aboriginal canvas artwork.

Kuranda, Cairns & Port Douglas Multi-Park Package

9. Kuranda, Cairns & Port Douglas Multi-Park Package

Once you visit the first park of your choice, you will be given your physical pass which can be used over a 6 month period at all of the following parks. The award-winning Rainforestation Nature Park is a 100 acre (40-hectare) property located in the middle of Kuranda’s World Heritage Rainforest. This locally owned and operated park offers three unique experiences to visitors. Board an amphibious World War II Army Duck for a land and water adventure through the rainforest, as your Duck Captain identifies and explains fascinating plants including ferns, orchids, strangler figs, and the infamous stinging tree. As you move through the water, keep an eye out for turtles, fish, eels, and water birds, or for birds, pythons, and other reptiles on land. Rainforestation has 12 of the historic Army Ducks (officially spelled DUKW) which hold up to 30 passengers and have a combination of 6-wheel drive, a propeller, and a rudder. The Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience offers the opportunity to see traditional dance performances in the setting of the beautiful Rainforest Amphitheatre. You can also take part in the Dreamtime Walk along the Rainbow Serpent walkway, then watch a display of traditional spear throwing and didgeridoo playing. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn the art of throwing a boomerang, and try it out for yourself – can you get your boomerang to come back to you? Enjoy a self-guided tour in the Koala & Wildlife Park with experienced Wildlife Keepers and see crocodiles, kangaroos, wallabies, snakes, dingoes, a cassowary and the only Tasmanian Devils in North Queensland. There is also a barramundi lake where you can see the region’s most famous (and tastiest) fish. They grow up to 2 meters in length and can weigh up to 60kg! Don’t miss Jack the Ripper, one of the largest crocodiles in captivity. Coming in at over 5 meters in length and weighing almost a tonne, you can view him from the safety of our elevated boardwalks. Explore the park at your own pace and hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies as they roam freely through the park. Australian  Butterfly  Sanctuary is the largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit in Australia and prides itself on providing a world-class wildlife experience in the heart of Kuranda. The all-weather experience is home to over 1,500 magnificent tropical butterflies. The combination of a rainforest understory and canopy, along with a running stream and waterfalls, results in a natural-looking and feeling rainforest. All butterflies in the sanctuary are local rainforest species, and all are hand-reared on the premises. The undisputed stars of the sanctuary are the fluoro green Cairns Birdwings. Both these and the smaller but equally colorful species in the sanctuary provide visitors with the super experience of being surrounded by these habitually elusive wonders of nature. We recommend that visitors to the sanctuary wear something bright (red, white or hot pink are best) and let these beautiful creatures flutter all over you. Guests are welcome to stay as long as they like with their entry ticket allowing them the flexibility to return for up to 5 days. The award-winning Wildlife Habitat, located in Port Douglas, is a wildlife immersion exhibit providing visitors with a chance to experience the Wetlands, Rainforest, and Grasslands in an open and interactive setting. As you make your way along the boardwalks of the Rainforest environment, you can fully immerse yourself in the different levels of the rainforest, from the forest floor to the canopy, and the wildlife which occupies it. Follow the Cassowary Walk to view local species such as the Cass and Airlie, our resident southern cassowaries, as well as Boyd’s forest dragon and the colorful Eclectus parrots. In the Wetlands, look out for the range of birds and other wildlife that call the area home, including the Black-Necked Storks. Wildlife Habitat is the only park in the world successfully breeding the Storks. Over in the Grasslands exhibit, you will have the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies and admire the endangered Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroos. A host of wild native birdlife uses the billabong in this area as a sanctuary. Boardwalks overlook tropical lagoons where both the estuarine and freshwater crocodiles lurk beneath the water or bask on banks in the sunshine. Walk the world's first Predator Plank over these apex predators. Watch as our experienced Wildlife Keepers demonstrate the sheer power of the saltwater crocodile during feeding time – an impressive display not to be missed. Guests are welcome to stay as long as they like with their entry ticket allowing them the flexibility to return for up to 5 days.

Other Sightseeing Options in Rainforestation Nature Park

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What people are saying about Rainforestation Nature Park

Overall rating

4.6
(264 reviews)

A wonderful, bery exciting day full of adventure in the rainforest with diverse activities, aboard the Skyrail, duckboat and scenic train. The tour was very well planned and carried out as advertised, very friendly staff/ coach driver; great stay in Kuranda and the Koala foto-meet-and -greet was just fabulous! We fell kn love with little sweet Munamba!!!! This foto is the best of all!!! The duckboat was cool too, bit not as great as the skyrail and train ride due to the scenery and atmosphere! We highly recommend this day trip to habe a first encounter with the rainforest, Barron Waterfall (awesome!), gigantic harmless spiders above your heads and a python, sunbathing ob a rock below the boardwalk. Sage trip, but bring rain gear just in case!!!

We loved the entire day! Learnt a lot about plants, environment. Aboriginal culture and met some beautiful people! Great family day out and my son rated the Boomerang throwing and Aussie BBQ very highly!!! 😂

Wonderful day trip, Kuranda Scenic Railway trip was so enjoyable, Skyrail was amazing. Brett was a very entertaining and informative tour guide. Highly recommend 👌

Very interesting. People with mobility issues may find the army duck difficult. Our tour guides were excellent

A lot of fun and educative. The driver/guide was super nice. We can strongly recommend it.