Review: Port Douglas Skyrail & Scenic Rail – Is It Worth It?

Okay, so you’re thinking about experiencing the World Heritage-listed rainforest near Port Douglas, maybe with the Skyrail and Scenic Rail? Very possibly a splendid idea! This journey definitely gives you seriously amazing views and lets you get up close and personal with some stunning natural beauty. Still, let’s break down the experience so you can work out if it actually matches what you are after.

What Exactly Is the Skyrail and Scenic Rail?

Well, it’s actually pretty straightforward. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway carries you, like, right above the rainforest canopy. You’ll glide along in a gondola, providing what is more or less outstanding panoramic views. Then there is that historical Kuranda Scenic Railway – it winds through the mountains, passes dramatic waterfalls and really lush scenery. They basically team up, which, in a way, allows you to experience the rainforest from totally different perspectives, that’s it!

My Trip – First Impressions of the Skyrail

As a matter of fact, the first thing that strikes you is, maybe, how quiet it seems as you float upwards. The gondolas actually seem really comfortable, and they provide, pretty much, unobstructed views. That first glimpse of the canopy spreading out beneath you? Well, I mean it’s fairly breathtaking! The stations along the way, Red Peak and Barron Falls, let you actually step off and explore with short walks, a bit. That could really get you even closer to nature, possibly.

The Kuranda Scenic Railway: Stepping Back in Time

The Kuranda Scenic Railway very much gives you that old-fashioned charm. As a matter of fact, the carriages have kept this vintage feel, and as you pull away, the climb begins immediately, and so it winds through the mountains, you hear this narration about the history, just a bit, which adds, in effect, a cool layer to what you’re seeing. The views? Definitely spectacular, I would have to say. And so there is Barron Falls, if it’s flowing, and there is the gorge – both of which are absolute stunners, just!

What’s it like in Kuranda?

Oh, Kuranda! Like, it’s a vibrant little village that actually sits high in the rainforest. As a matter of fact, it’s seriously touristy, though. Anyway, so there are markets selling crafts, souvenirs, plus actually a few wildlife attractions – like Birdworld and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, really. In effect, it is nice to wander about for an hour or two, however don’t expect something seriously authentic; just expect lots of didgeridoos and koala merchandise. The cafes can be nice, but they, too, tend to be really busy.

Skyrail vs. Scenic Rail: The Key Differences

Well, the Skyrail is very much all about the views. Almost as if, you’re gliding silently, and you get, pretty much, this fantastic perspective on the rainforest. The Scenic Rail is, on the other hand, more about the experience of the old railway. If you think about it, it’s slower, that gives it this feeling of nostalgia, with plenty of cool, rugged scenery along the way, but very much from ground level, okay?

Is the World Heritage Forest By Skyrail Scenic Rail Worth It? The Good Things

As I was saying, the views genuinely are amazing. The Skyrail especially gives you what could be like a unique perspective that you won’t see any place else. Then, in that case, getting to see the rainforest from both above and through the middle really is rather special. Kuranda, as a matter of fact, is what you could call a cute village to explore, especially if you are in that market for souvenirs. Lastly, the whole thing actually runs really smoothly, which is so nice!

Not-So-Good Bits: Things to Note

So, as I was saying, Kuranda can be crowded. Like, seriously packed during peak season. That does sort of detract from what could be that otherwise peaceful rainforest experience, arguably. I want to be honest, it isn’t exactly cheap, either. You’ll definitely want to weigh that up to be sure that it’s within your budget. So, if you are after, maybe, something off-the-beaten-path, this actually is not it. It’s super popular, right?

Planning Your Trip: Essential Tips

Anyway, here are some must do’s when it comes to planning a trip to the World Heritage Forest By Skyrail Scenic Rail. Definitely book your tickets way, way in advance. Particularly if you happen to be travelling during school holidays, just, actually to avoid disappointment. Seriously consider going early! To put it simply, the morning is far, far less crowded, really! Plus, I would wear comfy shoes, there is a bit of walking involved. Take water and snacks, too, just in case. Anyway, so check the weather! As a matter of fact, the rainforest can be seriously wet (obviously) so be prepared.

Making it a Family Trip: Is it Good for Children?

As a matter of fact, yes, the Skyrail and Scenic Railway are pretty good options for families. As you might expect, kids usually love the gondola ride and, say, the novelty of the train. Anyway, so the short walks at the Skyrail stations could be cool for stretching their legs, I mean it keeps it from, arguably, getting too monotonous. And so that is Kuranda, of course – it has, like, enough distractions to keep most ages entertained, maybe for an hour or two, that’s right!

Are There any Package Deal Options?

Yeah, there seem to be various package deal options that, actually, combine the Skyrail and Scenic Rail with other things, like a visit to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. As I was saying, compare costs though! In other words, do your research and actually see if you’re genuinely saving money, in that case.

My Personal Verdict: Worth the Hype?

Right then, so it is really quite amazing, and so you’ll probably enjoy it. The views, especially from the Skyrail, actually are something else. Even though, yes, it can get really touristy, and yes, it isn’t particularly what you might call inexpensive, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of this old rainforest, it possibly is seriously worth considering. Just, actually, factor in those crowds and book ahead. Get on board!

FAQs About the Skyrail and Scenic Railway