Kuranda Koala Gardens: A Cuddle with Down Under's Cutest
Get up close with cuddly koalas and other Aussie animals in the heart of Kuranda's rainforest village. A must-do wildlife experience!
Kuranda Koala Gardens, situated within the Kuranda Heritage Markets, provides an intimate wildlife experience in the heart of Kuranda's rainforest village. This boutique park is home to a variety of Australian animals, including koalas, wombats, quokkas, wallabies, and freshwater crocodiles. Visitors can observe koalas up close and even have the opportunity to cuddle one for a souvenir photo (at an extra cost). The park also features a 'Nocturnal Wonders' exhibit, showcasing nocturnal marsupials like the greater bilby, northern bettong, and mahogany glider. Guests can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies in a free-range enclosure and learn about various reptiles, including snakes and lizards. Kuranda Koala Gardens is operated by descendants of a Kuranda pioneering family, with a historical display offering insights into the region's past. The park is part of the 'Kuranda Wildlife Experience,' which includes entry to Birdworld Kuranda and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning, especially during the peak season (May to October), to avoid crowds and enjoy a cooler, more intimate visit with the animals.
- Don't miss the Nocturnal Wonders exhibit to see unique Australian nocturnal animals.
- Check out the Marsupial Presentation at 2pm and the Nocturnal Presentation at 10:30am to learn more about the animals.
A brief summary to Kuranda Koala Gardens
- 2/4 Rob Veivers Dr, Kuranda, Queensland, 4881, AU
- +61740939953
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kuranda Scenic Railway Station or Skyrail Terminal, Kuranda Koala Gardens is located within the Kuranda Heritage Markets on Rob Veivers Drive, approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Follow the signs towards the Kuranda Heritage Markets. No additional costs are involved.
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Public Transport
If arriving via the Trans North Bus service, disembark at the Kuranda Village stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Kuranda Heritage Markets on Rob Veivers Drive. A one-way bus fare from Cairns to Kuranda is approximately $6-$8. Please note that this is a 'Hail & Ride' service which cannot be pre-booked and payments are taken in Australian dollars.
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Taxi/Ride Share
From Cairns, a taxi or rideshare to Kuranda Koala Gardens will take approximately 45-60 minutes. Expect to pay around $140 or more for a one-way trip. Taxis and rideshares can drop you off directly at the Kuranda Heritage Markets entrance.
