The picturesque mountain retreat of Kuranda Village is just 25km northwest of Cairns and attracts visitors from all over the world who enjoy its superb wildlife attractions, walking trails, river cruises, souvenir shopping and artists’ galleries. Initially people came to admire the mighty 125m Barron Falls, while artisans were attracted to the region’s natural beauty and decided to call it home, creating a vibrant arts and craft culture.
Make sure you allow plenty of time to visit some of Kuranda’s world renowned attractions and activities, which include koalas, butterflies, native and exotic birds, kangaroos, reptiles, some of the world’s most venomous snakes, and even come face to face with a huge life size replica of an Allosaurus Dinosaur.
You can see traditional Indigenous dance performances, voyage on a riverboat along the spectacular Barron River, get your photo taken holding a koala, feed wallabies and explore an amazing gemstone museum, all amongst the beautiful rainforest that envelops the town.
Kuranda has evolved into a superb place to shop. There are bargains to be had, as well as exquisite artisan pieces at the other end of the spectrum.
The markets in Kuranda are diverse and have been a feature of the village for 25 years, opening all year round except Christmas Day. Best Kuranda buys are the hand-made local products and quality Australiana such as opals, wood-art, didgeridoos and other authentic Indigenous artefacts. You’ll find delightfully soft and supple kangaroo skins and leather products, and for that souvenir t-shirt for anyone back home, you can’t go past Kuranda’s range and prices!
Historic buildings now house a variety of upmarket eateries and bars to enjoy and relax in. Dine indoors in air-conditioned comfort, or take an alfresco table surrounded by the vistas and sounds of Kuranda at one of the many quality hotels, restaurants, cafes, bar and grills in this exciting village.
History
Kuranda began life in the 1800s as a retreat where locals could escape the heat and humidity of Cairns and the tropical coast. During the ’60s, a new wave of settlers arrived, embracing the alternative lifestyle movement of the day and establishing Kuranda as an arts and crafts nexus. Catering for visitors forms the basis of commerce and lifestyle in Kuranda today. There is plenty of accommodation to be found, whether it be a cosy bed and breakfast, a well maintained, multi-choice accommodation and camping park, an historic hotel that harks back to the 1920s or a modern resort with one of the best natural style swimming pools found anywhere.
