Australia · TRAIN EXPERIENCES
The 15 train experiences we would put on a shortlist, with what each costs a head, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is at the top for a reason; start there.
Ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, explore Kuranda village, and glide over Barron Gorge on the Skyrail from Cairns.
“Train trip was very informative and wonderful views along the way. Kuranda was amazing place to visit and the skyrail back down was the perfect way to end the trip”
Ride Puffing Billy through Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges, with heritage steam, forest views, Emerald Lake Park, and practical booking tips.
“excellent well organised train ride, an amazing experience not to be missed, such witty, lovely staff members,”
Review of the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail day trip from Cairns, with practical advice on costs, timing, stops, and optional wildlife visits.
“The communication from the tour operator was lacking slightly. I really liked the Skyrail part. The views from there were great and I enjoyed the stops along the way. The train was just okay. Very hot, sticky and crowded. With the lack of rain, the few waterfalls were not that impressive. (I know this isn’t the tour operators issue, but it was part of my experience which is why I’m including it). Kuranda itself was cool. Lots to see, places to eat and shops to check out. I would have rather driven up to Kuranda though honestly.”
Review of Cairns’ Skyrail, Kuranda, and scenic train tour, with rainforest views, hotel transfers, practical tips, costs, and honest drawbacks.
“Be sure take the time to join the Ranger @ the Red Bluff station for a very informative discussion of the Rain Forest. You won’t regret spending the time!”
Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges and meet koalas, kangaroos, and birds at Healesville Sanctuary on an easy Melbourne day trip.
“I lover the puffing bill experience it was so much fun. Also a massive shout out to the bus driver Sam who was so helpful and informative”
Review of Melbourne’s Puffing Billy and Phillip Island Penguin Parade tour, with itinerary details, costs, guide tips, weather advice, and honest pros and cons.
“This was a great trip! Absolutely loved it, only thing I would recommend to wear warm clothes on the penguin place as it is so much colder than you’d think.”
Review the Grand Kuranda day tour from Cairns, with Scenic Railway, Skyrail, butterflies, wildlife, Army Duck, lunch, and Aboriginal culture.
“Not worth, Train is way too hot & the view not that exciting. The Wildlife part ist just sad. Those animals don‘t have enough space. Skyrail got cancelled cause of the rain. so we couldn’t do it. overall only cute part is the butterfly sanctuary otherwise classic mass tourism.”
Ride Kuranda Scenic Railway Gold Class and Skyrail through tropical rainforest, with free time for markets, wildlife, and Barron Falls.
“Our tour guide arrived 40 minutes late to pick us up from the designated hotel. Other tour operators told us “they’re always late”.”
Ride Skyrail over Queensland rainforest, explore Kuranda, descend by scenic train, and pause for sunset at Palm Cove from Port Douglas.
“A great day out with Chris. He was friendly, knowledgeable and entertaining. Lots of laughs and a fabulous experience.”
Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, cross Monbulk Creek, and visit Emerald Lake Park on a well-run Melbourne half-day tour.
“Michael our driver / Guide was excellent! He took photos and videos of us on the train as it travelled and share them with the group. If in Melbourne it’s a must do trip / adventure.”
Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail from Port Douglas, with rainforest views, Kuranda markets, Palm Cove, and hotel transfers.
“The actual activity was fantastic, but the driver of the bus was an absolute pain. He spent the entire time talking about himself, very boring.”
Ride historic Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, visit Grants Picnic Ground, and enjoy a scenic half-day escape from Melbourne.
“Matt was fantastic and just such a great trip! Thank you”
Ride Puffing Billy, explore the Dandenong Ranges, and meet Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary on a full-day tour from Melbourne.
“I booked this tour specifically because the description promised a small group of 21 people( Tour Operator- Explorer Australia), which seemed ideal as I was traveling with an elderly person. However, the reality was far from what was advertised—there were more than double )nearly 50 people in the bus.) To make matters worse, the bus had a leaking air conditioner, with water dripping throughout the ride. This wasn’t just uncomfortable but also posed a significant safety hazard, especially with children and elderly passengers navigating a wet and slippery floor. This experience felt like clear false advertising and a lack of care for passenger safety. I strongly recommend staying away from…”
Ride Puffing Billy, see The Nobbies, and watch Phillip Island’s little penguins return ashore on this long but rewarding day tour.
“Great trip out, a lot of driving but plenty of stops to break it up and Daniel kept us to time so we didn’t miss the amazing sunset. Puffing Billy was great, get on the platform side if you can for best views. Penguins were little disappointing as not many came ashore when we were there. One thing not on the itinerary was a stop at a wildlife park, cost a little extra but got to get up close to lots of animals and well worth it.”
Ride Skyrail over Cairns rainforest, explore Kuranda, then return in Gold Class on the historic scenic railway with drinks and snacks.
“We absolutely loved our day! Everyone was so helpful and our lovely Lady in our carriage was amazing, fun, informative and organised. Tops.”
Pick a coastline, a cellar door or a national park.
