From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kuranda Koala Gardens.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
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!
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Kuranda Koala Gardens
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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.
Explore places near Kuranda Koala Gardens
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.
A brief summary to Kuranda Koala Gardens
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