Day trip from Port Douglas, Australia, Kuranda Scenic Rail and Tjapukai

Why you should go

Tjapukai will give you an insight to Aboriginal culture, a story that began more than 40,000 years ago. The particular tribe you learn about here is the local Djabugay people.

You can see how to light a fire without a matchstick, learn about bush medicine, watch dance performances and listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo. There is also the chance for you to learn to throw a boomerang as well as plenty of other interactive demonstrations.

What is Tjapukai?
This cultural centre began life in 1987 and moved to its current location by the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway at Caravonic in 1996. Now a village, restaurant and gallery, it has been visited by thousands over the years including the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. Tjapukai is, reportedly, the largest Indigenous employer of any tourism enterprise in Australia.  

Tjapukai

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda a pretty secluded mountain village. On your journey you pass through World Heritage-protected rainforest, said to be the oldest on the planet. There were two stops on the trip, Red Peak where a ranger explains about the landscape and Barron Falls to see the cascading water, so you can get up close and personal with nature. 

Barron Falls

Kuranda
A quaint village, 25 kilometres (approximately 15.5 miles) from Cairns surrounded by rainforest is a lovely spot to while away a couple of hours. It has plenty of captivating boutiques selling handicrafts including jewellery and Aboriginal art. There are also plenty of places to stop for a coffee or a snack. A quirky and interesting place.

Kuranda Scenic Railway
A highlight of the day is the trip back to Cairns or Freshwater. During the hour-long journey you pass through rainforest, see steep ravines and get another view of Barron Falls.

The Cairns-Kuranda Railway was constructed between 1882 and 1891 and even today is hailed as an engineering feat. Nowadays the tunnels and bridges are a tribute to the many pioneers who died working on the railway.

Passing past the Barron Gorge on the Kuranda Scenic Railway

This day tour is another must on your itinerary while visiting Port Douglas or Cairns.

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there

There are plenty of tour companies operating trips. I travelled with Down Under Tours. For more information visit downundertours.com

Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia

Port Douglas at sunset

 







Why you should go.
 

What makes it special

A beautiful hour or so drive from Cairns along a road fringed by the coast on one side and forest on the other is Port Douglas. It is where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Coral Sea making it the only place on the planet where two World Heritage sites collide.

Port, as the locals call it, is a lovely upscale tourist destination that attracts Australians as well as globe trotters. Life here floats along at a sleepy pace. Many shops and restaurants close early. But, Port has all the trappings of the 21^st century -– minus high-rise buildings – you need for a great holiday. This is an idyllic base from which to explore the Great Barrier Reef as well as the rainforest.

Port Douglas, the town

Port Douglas, the town
The tree-lined Macrossan Street is the town’s main artery. It is awash with boutiques, shopping malls, bars, cafés and top-notch restaurants. You cannot really go wrong whichever you choose, especially if you like fish. It is a foodies’ paradise.

A tropical heaven

Beaches
Golden sands adorned with coconut palms and sparkling crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping at the edge, the Four Mile Beach is a tropical heaven. Take a walk to the northern end to discover rock pools. Like most beaches in Australia, it is patrolled so you can swim safety. Occasionally, water crocodiles can be spotted here so watch out. 

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there
I flew with Qantas from Alice Springs to Port Douglas. For best rates visit qantas.com

Stay
You will find plenty of accommodation here ranging from budget to luxury. I stayed at the boutique Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel. Overlooking the Four Mile Beach it is the only hotel in town to have beach and ocean views. Hi Tide Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is an idyllic setting for dining. Another plus of the hotel is that it is only a couple of minutes’ stroll to the main street. Catering only for adults, it has bags of charm. The owners, Gavin & Kylie along with their team are warm and welcoming. It is easy to forget you are in a hotel. For more information and best rates peninsulahotel.com.au