AUSTRALIA · AUSTRALIA TRAIN JOURNEYS
Queensland cut a railway into a rainforest gorge and Victoria kept its narrow-gauge steam running. These 15 compare the Kuranda line, Puffing Billy and the coastal runs, priced, with the cableway combinations that change the day.
Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway, explore rainforest markets, and return above Barron Gorge by Skyrail from Cairns for $127.
“It will be better if the time in Kuranda was with one hour longer.”
Ride Puffing Billy through Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges, with steam, forest views, Lakeside Park, and practical tips for a smooth visit.
“We had a wonderful time riding on Puffing Billy. The scenery in the Dandenong region is stunning. The volunteer staff were very efficient and great fun. I travelled with my adult granddaughters and we all had an amazing time. At the age of 74 it’s the first time I have travelled on a train, sitting with my legs dangling over the side!”
Review of the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail day trip from Cairns, with itinerary details, costs, tips, drawbacks, and booking advice.
“Of course we booked a Great Barrier Reef trip while in Cairns, and this seemed like the other "must see". The Skyway ride was fun and had some amazing views. The stops along the way were informative and again great views. The town itself was far less impressive. On the October Sunday we were there about half the restaurants and stores seemed to be closed. The zoo was fine but very small. The train ride back was not as impressive as the skyway. It was slow, hot, and much of the time you aren't seeing much of anything. Overall, glad we did it but might have been better to rent…”
Review of Melbourne’s Puffing Billy and Healesville tour, with train tips, wildlife highlights, timing, transport, price, and practical advice.
“Mark our guide was superb, punctual and very friendly. Gave very clear information and told us about the local areas we were going through on the way. The Sanctuary Park was fantastic and then the ultimate experience at the end was the Puffing Billy Steam Train. Would highly recommend this for anyone travelling to Melbourne.”
Ride Puffing Billy, tour The Nobbies, and watch Phillip Island’s little penguins return at sunset on this full-day trip from Melbourne.
“We had a great day. Our guide Alan looked after us well and made the whole day run smoothly. We really enjoyed the whole experience.”
Review of Cairns’ Kuranda day tour with Scenic Railway, Skyrail, rainforest wildlife, Aboriginal culture, lunch, and practical tips.
“Get the Glass Boat or Snorkelling and then decide. The cruise boat takes 50 minutes to get out to the Green Island. Bring strong sunblock for the summer sun so your souvenir is not a bad sunburn to mess up your time off. I say get the gRead more”
Ride Kuranda’s historic railway and Skyrail over ancient rainforest, with Gold Class comfort, free village time, and practical booking tips.
“The views are spectacular. The guided tours very informative and interesting. This gave us more things to look out for which made the trip enjoyable.”
Ride Skyrail and the Kuranda Scenic Train from Port Douglas, explore Kuranda markets, and enjoy a Palm Cove stop on this full-day tour.
“Our driver Chris was amazing, he kept everyone entertained all day. From his first cheery welcome to the perfect sing song on the way home. The day ran smoothly, with his clear instructions and his jaunty hat so he could always be seen in a crowd! 😂 A great day was had by all. The Skyrail was exhilarating and the 40 minute ride gave lots of time to see the scenery and the views were spectacular. This trip in my opinion was well worth the money.”
Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, cross a trestle bridge, and relax at Emerald Lake on a well-run Melbourne half-day tour.
“Fabulous experience on the Puffing Billy train! Our guide Jools (and her koala Gumnut) were amazing, nothing was too much trouble and her communications were brilliant. She even went out of her way to find kangaroos on the way home!! If you do one trip, make it this one 😍”
Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway or Skyrail from Port Douglas, explore rainforest markets, and unwind at Palm Cove on this full-day tour.
“Excellent! Great day, Chris our guide was funny and very informative! Highly recommended.”
Review of the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail tour from Port Douglas, with rainforest views, markets, Palm Cove, pricing, tips, and FAQs.
“This trip was phenomenal from start to finish! Our tour leader Brett was the best and a leader that everyone should experience! The views from this trip will be remembered forever!”
Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, spot native birds, explore Grants Picnic Ground, and enjoy a scenic half-day escape from Melbourne.
“Amazing tour guide. Gina is incredible, informative and very friendly. We love our experience here. I traveled with my 80 year old mother and she had such an amazing time. Highly recommended!”
Ride Puffing Billy, explore the Dandenong Ranges, and meet Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary on a full-day trip from Melbourne.
“It was a very enjoyable tour. We first spent our time in Healesville Santuary. What I liked about the place is that animals are living in enclosures which are similar to their natural habitat. The Puffing Billy is one for the books!”
Ride Puffing Billy, visit The Nobbies, and watch Phillip Island’s little penguins return ashore on a full-day trip from Melbourne.
“The day was packed but very well organised. Our guide was very knowledgeable and knew when to point to see things and he also gave us a great tip on where to sit to see the Penguin Parade best and he was so right.”
Ride Skyrail over Queensland rainforest, explore Kuranda, then return by Gold Class train with drinks, snacks, and spectacular views.
“A great trip, highly recommended, make the train trip the return and upgrade to Gold Class to enjoy some drinks and snacks... awesome views both on the Sky Rail and the Train”
By the kind of train, or by the country it runs through.
