Cairns, Kuranda, Aboriginals & Army Duck

OVERVIEW

This fun, informative tour calls on attractions where Cairns’ nature and culture both take center stage. A scenic 45 min ride by coach brings you to Rainforestation Nature Park, where you’ll board an amphibious World War II Army Duck for a tour like no other. Piloting the vessel through the rainforest over land and water with equal ease, your Duck Captain will identify and explain fascinating plants and wildlife as you pass by. Don’t be surprised to see scaly goannas soaking up the sun, a python slithering up a tree or eels swimming around the Duck. That rollicking ride is followed by a visit to the park’s amphitheater for a show performed by indigenous Pamagirri Aboriginal dancers who depict animals, food-gathering and hunting though spirited music and dance. Still more local color awaits at Kuranda, a delightful village nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Established in the 1800s during the region’s logging and mining heydays, this was an outpost where you could stock up on goods and enjoy some culture and sophistication at a frontier hotel. Today, Kuranda is still a haven for shops, cafés and local culture. After a brief town overview, enjoy time to explore at leisure here.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take a wild, amphibious tour of extraordinary Rainforestation Nature Park via WWII Army Duck.
• See and learn about the flora and fauna that live in this unspoiled, World Heritage-listed jungle.
• Watch indigenous dancers perform a fascinating live show at the rainforest amphitheater
• Spend some free time in Kuranda, a remote mountain township with markets, cafés and shops where artwork, opals and crafts are sold.
• Enjoy fine Coral Sea and Green Island views and a panoramic spin through Cairns on the way back.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, insect repellant, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.