Kuranda

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Kuranda is a village up in the rainforest near Cairns. We took the 1 3/4hr scenic railway journey up the hillside, passing waterfalls, stunning scenery and views. Kuranda itself is a bit touristy, however, we are here during the low season so everywhere has been less busy than it can get (it's the wet season apparently - we knew this, but the weather doesn't seem to - yet!). We got a tip off there was a fruit bat (or flying fox) sanctuary up here that has free entry, which we duely found behind the Fire Station, down the beginning of a jungle walk. If you've never seen one, you must - they're big! 1 metre wing span typically. We've seen them fill the skies in Cairns with their loud chattering each evening at dusk. Anyway, was speaking to the fair dinkum Aussie owner about them for sometime, so am now an expert on them should you wish to know more!!

Then went to the butterfly sanctuary up in Kuranda - the blue Ulysees is our favourite. Have since seen most of them in the wild! Caught the cable car back down, which was rather controversial when built given that the journey crosses the rainforest canopy 'wilderness'. And the way they are developing into their rainforest, there isn't so much of it left. Stopped to do a boardwalk and take in the views of the 300 metre Byron Falls before reconvening the cable car journey. All in all, a great day out in the rainforest, with some stunning views, but better was to come...

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Photos

Kuranda Train
Prior to departing Cairns Central Station

Stoney Falls
The view back from the other side of the gorge, after passing on the train to Kuranda

Barron Falls
Part of the mighty Barron Falls - although before the rains of the wet season had set in.

Ulysees Butterfly
Taken at the Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda

Kuranda Scenic Railway
View back of the carriages as we cross another bridge

A view from Kuranda Scenic Railway
View back over towards Cairns

Butterfly #1
Another Butterfly at the Sanctuary in Kuranda

Butterfly #2
More butterflies at the Sanctuary in Kuranda

Fruit Bats
At the Bat Santuary (basically someones garden!)

Cable Car - Boardwalk stop
Boardwalk through the Rainforest on way back from Kuranda