Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?

Avoid, avoid, avoid! It would be far wiser to spend your money on another thrilling helicopter ride! 🚁
For a whopping 123 + 14 + 21 dollars, all we got to see was a tiny, underwhelming zoo that wouldn’t even pass as a quaint roadside attraction in a small village!
I had been eagerly anticipating a rainforest hike.

Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?
Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?

We took a taxi to the cable car station, shelled out 123 dollars for a round-trip ticket, and spent an hour gliding through the air. Upon arrival in Kuranda town, we found ourselves rushing around for just 20 minutes at noon, with confusing signposts and only managed to catch the shuttle by constantly asking for directions.

Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?
Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?

Once we reached the rainforest, our hopes of hiking were dashed when the staff informed us that the only activities available were the koala park, an aboriginal performance, and a river cruise, each costing an additional 20-30 dollars. We decided to visit the koala park, but once inside, we were disappointed to find it extremely basic, with animals that were dirty and smelly.

Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?
Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?

We arrived at the rainforest station at 1:30, and by 1:50, we were already waiting for the return trip… followed by a grueling two-hour train ride back. What a waste of time and money!
Don’t come here!

Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?
Explore the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns: Is It Worth Over $170 for an Adventure?
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7 Comments

  1. Thomas Terry

    I totally agree with your experience. The high price doesn’t match the value at all. A disappointing zoo and a rushed rainforest visit—definitely not worth it. Next time, I’ll skip this and try something else.

    • wanderlynn

      Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely understand how you feel—pricing can be tough to justify sometimes. It’s always good to explore other options too. Hope your next adventure is even more memorable!

  2. Aaron Kim

    I completely agree with your experience—$170+ feels like way too much for what you get. The zoo was underwhelming and the cable car didn’t make up for it either. A helicopter ride would’ve been a much better use of money!

    • wanderlynn

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I understand where you’re coming from—pricing can be tough to justify sometimes. Have you considered visiting independently to save costs? Everyone’s preferences differ, but exploring on a budget can be just as rewarding!

  3. Daniel Nichols

    Ugh, totally agree. The hype just didn’t match reality at all. That zoo was such a letdown after expecting an amazing rainforest experience. Next time, I’d rather do something else with that cash!

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