Kuranda Koala Gardens, Cairns Travel Guide

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Get up close with cuddly koalas and other Aussie animals in the heart of Kuranda's rainforest village. A must-do wildlife experience!

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Kuranda Koala Gardens

Nestled in Kuranda's Heritage Markets, Kuranda Koala Gardens offers close encounters with iconic Australian wildlife, including koalas, wallabies, wombats, and freshwater crocodiles. It's one of the few places where you can cuddle a koala for a souvenir photo, creating a memorable experience in the rainforest village.

A brief summary to Kuranda Koala Gardens

2/4 Rob Veivers Dr, Kuranda, Queensland, 4881, AU
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kuranda Koala Gardens.

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.

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Explore Kuranda Koala Gardens on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kuranda Koala Gardens, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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.

Discover more about Kuranda Koala Gardens

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.