311

Army Duck Tour with Skyrail Cable Car and Kuranda Scenic Railway Ride

4.4 / 5
128 reviews
2K+ booked
Opening hours
Suggested duration6-8 hour(s)

Reviews

4.4 / 5
Great
128 reviews
This itinerary includes: Pick-up from specific hotels (it is recommended to call in advance to confirm the pick-up location), a gondola ride towards Kuranda, round-trip shuttle bus service from Kuranda to Rainforestation Nature Park (Army Duck tour), a scenic train ride from Kuranda back to the city, and drop-off back at the hotel. There is an Indian-accented staff member on the shuttle bus who will briefly explain the itinerary. However, there won't be a tour guide accompanying you during the middle of the itinerary, and you will need to carry your own luggage. You can use the shuttle bus to travel between attractions at the agreed times. The panoramic views from the gondola and train are truly beautiful, and the village of Kuranda is also quite unique. The amphibious Army Duck tour is the only activity with guided commentary. The staff operating the boat are humorous and will introduce the ecological environment. The same attraction (Rainforestation Nature Park) also offers activities such as koala photos and Aboriginal performances, but these require an additional fee. If the Aboriginal performance time clashes with the Army Duck tour, you can coordinate with the ticketing staff to adjust the order. You are free to adjust your schedule as long as it's before the shuttle bus departs for the return trip. For the return train ride, tickets and seats are pre-assigned, so please be on time for boarding. The carriage number and seat assignment will be provided along with the itinerary when you first board the tour bus. It's recommended to wear a hat on the Army Duck tour, as moving vehicles may knock ants off the leaves. The itinerary is relaxed and doesn't require much walking, except perhaps when strolling around Kuranda.
We selected the boarding location when making the reservation, and gathered at the boarding location 10 minutes early. We were able to board the bus after our name was called, and the process went smoothly. The tour leader will distribute the one-day itinerary and the meeting time and location of each attraction on the bus, which is very clear. First, you will take the cable car up the mountain. You can get off at two cable car stations along the way and walk to enjoy the scenery. After arriving at the main station, you can tour the Kuranda Village, then go to the rainforeststation nature park to ride the Army duck amphibious vehicle, and then have lunch at your own expense in the Kuranda Village. After lunch, go to the Kurada railway station and take the 3:00 sightseeing train back to the city center. There is a station along the way where you can get off to see the waterfall, but the whole journey is a bit long, about two hours to get back to Cairns Station. After arrival, you can choose to leave the group or take a tourist bus back to the hotel. In summary, the whole trip was very fulfilling and the instructions were very clear. It is recommended for people who don't want to arrange their own itinerary!
The transportation and tour guide are very good. It would be better if the itinerary is explained clearly. Kuranda Rainforest eco-tourism is worth participating in. It is very special to participate in the military duck experience of the amphibious rainforest. The tour guide will introduce the characteristics and special plants of the rainforest. If you have time, you can freely walk around Kuranda Village, or visit the wildlife park and the Aboriginal Boomerang activities! It’s not very exciting but it’s a rare experience! On the outbound trip to Kuranda Railway and the return trip to Scenic Cableway, you can also see the rainforest in full! Protect the tropical rainforest!
The Barron Falls is very impressive and the guide explained it in great detail. The cable car was stable. Although it was delayed for half an hour due to rain that day and the sightseeing train was not open, which was a little regrettable, the overall experience was still great.
The que for skyrail is long but it moves fast. The view up is amazing and takes about 15mins each stop. The duck tour is informative about the trees in the rainforest and the scenic rail is amazing. It will stop for 10mins to take pictures of the Barron Falls.
I really enjoy Kuranda. You get the beautiful views from the train or sky rail. The village itself is really nice. A lot of local shops selling beautiful or tasty wares. The Army Duck was fun and educational. Learnt about the plants to stay away from.
Wow! The scenery is epic and such a great way to go up in the train and back down in the skyrail. Kuranda town is lovely but we didn't realise the markets aren't on every day (Thu to Sun only). However, there's still plenty of shops in the main high-street. Army duck was fun and something different to do.
Bus picked us up at the hotel on time, very friendly driver and tour guide. Very well organised. Enjoyed every attraction and ride, train ride and the cable car with amazing views. Army duck was also fun. Had some free time to explore the Kuranda village, shop at the market, had a drink in the cafe then head to the butterfly sanctuary.

Guide

  • Explore the tropical rainforest on board a retired WWII Army amphibious vehicle and learn about the rainforest ecosystem
  • Ride the tropical rainforest skyrail cable car and soar above the lush tropical rainforest
  • Enjoy panoramic views from aboard the train along the Kuranda Scenic Railway
  • Explore the quiet and beautiful village of Kuranda, where you can explore a variety of markets selling fresh produce and locally made arts and crafts

Join Tropic Wings, Cairns’ longest-operating and still locally owned coach company, for a full-day Kuranda adventure. Begin your journey traveling up to Kuranda via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding above the lush tropical rainforest with optional stops at Red Peak and Barron Falls for stunning views. Upon arrival in Kuranda Village, enjoy free time to explore its markets, shops, and scenic surroundings. Then, head to Rain forestation Nature Park for the iconic Army Duck Rainforest Tour, where you’ll travel on both land and water while your guide shares insights into the region’s unique flora and fauna. You can also visit the Tropical Fruit Orchard during your time there. Afterward, return to Kuranda Village before boarding the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a relaxing and picturesque journey back down, passing through tunnels, bridges, and breathtaking landscapes to end your day

FAQs

What is an Army Duck Tour?

An Army Duck Tour is a unique adventure where visitors explore the tropical rainforest aboard an amphibious vehicle called a DUKW, originally used by Allied forces during World War II.

Where do the Army Duck Tours take place?

The tours take place at Rainforestation Nature Park in Far North Queensland, Australia, providing a fascinating way to experience the lush, world heritage rainforest.

How do I get Rainforestation Nature Park?

Rainforestation Nature Park is located on the Kennedy Highway, at the top of the Kuranda Range. It is a 5-minute drive from Kuranda Village and a 30-minute drive from Cairns. You can also take the Kuranda Scenic Train or the Skyrail Cableway for a scenic journey to the park.

How long do all the activities take?

You will need approximately 2.5 hours to enjoy the Pamagirri Dance Show, Dreamtime Walk, Army Duck Tour, and Guided Wildlife Tour. If you also plan to participate in the Pamagirri Rainforest Walkabout, allow for an additional 30 minutes.

Can we still do all the activities even if it’s raining?

Yes, you can. The army ducks are equipped with tarpaulin roofs for rainy weather, and all other activities are under cover, except for the Pamagirri Rainforest Walkabout.

What other attractions are available at Rainforestation Nature Park?

In addition to the Army Duck Tours, Rainforestation Nature Park offers other attractions such as the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, and wildlife exhibits featuring koalas, kangaroos, and more.

Do I need any special footwear or clothing?

No special footwear or clothing is required. Most areas of the park are paved and undercover. However, we recommend bringing a hat for the Army Duck Tour if it’s hot and sunny, and wearing sturdy footwear if you plan to do the Pamagirri Rainforest Walkabout.

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