KURANDA & THE ATHERTON TABLELANDS
The Atherton Tablelands is the lush, volcanic heart of Tropical North Queensland, a cool elevated world of rainforest, waterfalls, and unique wildlife. It blends adventure with the serenity of country life.
This region offers a spectacular escape into nature’s grand design. It is a land of iconic sights, from the historic mountain village of Kuranda to the stunning natural beauty of Crater Lakes.
Most Popular Attractions
Kuranda Village & Rainforest Experience:
Kuranda Scenic Railway: A breathtaking journey through the rainforest, past waterfalls, and into the mountains via a historic train line.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: An iconic gondola experience gliding above the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest canopy.
Kuranda Koala Gardens: A boutique wildlife park featuring koalas, wallabies, and various reptiles.
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary: The largest butterfly aviary in the Southern Hemisphere, home to thousands of tropical species.
Birdworld Kuranda: An immersion aviary that allows visitors to walk among hundreds of free-flying birds.
Kuranda Heritage Markets: Famous markets offering local arts, crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs.
Barron Gorge National Park: The surrounding parkland of Kuranda, home to spectacular gorges and rainforest.
Jumrum Creek Conservation Park: A tranquil walking trail near Kuranda village through lush rainforest.
Kuranda Riverboat: A relaxed cruise on the Barron River, offering wildlife spotting, including crocodiles and turtles.
Waterfalls & Lakes (Natural Wonders):
Millaa Millaa Falls: The most photographed waterfall in Australia, featuring a perfect curtain of water set in lush rainforest.
Lake Barrine: A stunning, clear volcanic crater lake with a peaceful surrounding rainforest walk and tea house.
Lake Eacham: Another pristine volcanic crater lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and picnics.
Malanda Falls: Broad, picturesque falls easily accessible, with a large swimming pool and a chance to spot platypus.
Millstream Falls: One of Australia’s widest single-drop waterfalls, located near Ravenshoe.
Zillie Falls: A beautiful cascade on the famous Waterfall Circuit, often viewed from the roadside lookout.
Elinjaa Falls: The final major stop on the Waterfall Circuit, known for its rock overhang and beautiful swimming hole.
Tablelands Towns & Unique Attractions:
Yungaburra: A charming historic town known for its federation-style architecture and the famous Nick’s Restaurant (heritage listed).
The Crystal Caves (Atherton): A unique, privately owned attraction featuring a labyrinth of tunnels filled with a massive collection of crystals and geodes.
Gallo Dairyland (Malanda): A working dairy farm and cheese factory offering tours, tastings, and a café.
Atherton Chinese Temple (Hou Wang Temple): One of the few remaining timber and corrugated iron Chinese temples in Australia, reflecting the region’s gold rush history.
The Giant Curtain Fig Tree (Yungaburra): A magnificent 500-year-old strangler fig with stunning aerial roots resembling a theatre curtain.
Platypus Viewing Platform (Yungaburra): A dedicated spot on the Petersen Creek where you have a high chance of spotting platypus in the wild.
Mount Hypipamee National Park: Home to a deep, water-filled volcanic pipe (a diatreme) and the beautiful Dinner Falls.
Activities & Experiences
Ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Glide silently just meters above the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics rainforest canopy for 7.5km, with stops to explore lookouts and boardwalks.
Journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway: Experience one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, winding through tunnels, across bridges, past Stoney Creek Falls, and the breathtaking Barron Gorge.
Explore the Kuranda Markets: Browse the vibrant Original Rainforest Markets and Heritage Markets for local arts, crafts, jewellery, unique souvenirs, and Aboriginal art.
Take the Waterfall Circuit Drive: Self-drive a loop to see iconic waterfalls like Millaa Millaa Falls (great for a swim), Zillie Falls, and Ellinjaa Falls across the Tablelands.
Visit the Crater Lakes: Relax by the tranquil waters of Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine, ancient volcanic crater lakes perfect for swimming, kayaking, or a scenic walk.
Go Wildlife Spotting: Get up close with native Australian animals at:
- Australian Butterfly Sanctuary: Walk among thousands of free-flying tropical butterflies.
- Birdworld Kuranda: See one of Australia’s largest collections of free-flying birds.
- Kuranda Koala Gardens: Cuddle a koala and see other wildlife like wombats and kangaroos.
Experience Indigenous Culture: Participate in the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience at Rainforestation Nature Park, where you can watch traditional dances, learn boomerang and spear-throwing, and join a Dreamtime Walk.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight: Experience a champagne hot air balloon ride at dawn over the rolling green landscapes and country villages of the Atherton Tablelands, particularly around Mareeba.
Hunt for Giant Fig Trees: Visit the magnificent, enormous buttress roots of the Curtain Fig Tree near Yungaburra and the Cathedral Fig Tree near Lake Placid.
Explore the Culinary Trails: Sample local tropical produce, coffee, and dairy. Visit a coffee plantation (like Skybury Coffee), a tropical fruit orchard, or pick your own berries at a strawberry farm.
Go White Water Rafting: Take a thrilling half-day trip on the Barron River, navigating Grade 2-3 rapids through the stunning Barron Gorge National Park (best during the wet season/summer months).
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Highly Recommended for the Tablelands: While Kuranda village is compact and walkable, a rental car from Cairns is the most flexible and best way to explore the vast Atherton Tablelands region, including the Waterfall Circuit, Crater Lakes, and surrounding towns. Roads are generally well-maintained.
Cairns to Kuranda Access: The main road link is the scenic Kuranda Range Road (Kennedy Highway), which is a mountain drive. Alternatively, the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway are popular, stress-free options for a day trip from Cairns, which usually involve a coach transfer at one end.
Public Bus Options: Trans North Bus & Coach Service operates a limited, but affordable, passenger service connecting Cairns, Kuranda, and towns on the Tablelands (like Mareeba and Atherton). This is a “hail-and-ride” service in some areas, and tickets are generally cash-only (AUD).
Kuranda Village Transport: Once in Kuranda, the village is easily walkable. There is free all-day parking available if driving. Taxis and Uber are less reliable and can be expensive for transfers between the coast and the highlands.
Dress for Two Climates: Kuranda and the Atherton Tablelands are at a higher elevation, making them noticeably cooler than Cairns and the coast, especially in the evenings and during the winter (June-August). Pack a light jacket or jumper.
The Wet Tropics: The region is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, so expect rain, particularly during the wet season (December to April). This is when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular, but also when humidity is highest.
Markets are a Cultural Hub: Kuranda’s markets are a legacy of the “hippie commune” movement of the 1960s and 70s, which drew artists, musicians, and people seeking an alternate, nature-focused lifestyle. This history gives the village its unique, laid-back, creative, and bohemian atmosphere.
Honesty Boxes: When driving the Tablelands, keep an eye out for roadside stalls selling local produce, sometimes operating on an “honesty box” system—you take the goods and leave your cash in the box. This reflects the friendly, trusting nature of the rural community.
Platypus Spotting: The creeks around the Atherton Tablelands, particularly in the town of Yungaburra, are known as prime spots for viewing the elusive platypus. The best time is typically at dawn or dusk, staying quiet and patient by the viewing platforms.
Hidden Gems
- Hou Wang Temple, Atherton: A beautiful and unique Chinese Temple dating back to 1903, built by the large Chinese population drawn to the region’s brief gold rush. It is the only one of its kind outside of China.
- The Malanda Falls: Less famous than Millaa Millaa, these beautiful cascades in the Malanda Conservation Park offer a fantastic, tranquil swimming hole and a chance to spot the elusive tree kangaroo in the surrounding rainforest walks.
- Granite Gorge Nature Park: Near Mareeba, this is a fantastic spot to hand-feed friendly, wild rock wallabies—a unique and intimate wildlife experience away from the main attractions.
- Jum Rum Creek Walk, Kuranda: Away from the busy main streets, this tranquil, easy rainforest walk near the Barron River offers a quiet escape and a good chance for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife.
- Chillagoe Caves: For an entirely different landscape, take a day trip west from the Tablelands to the edge of the Outback to explore the stunning, ancient limestone caves and marble outcrops formed from an ancient coral reef.
First Nations Culture: The region is the traditional country of the Djabugay people (around Kuranda and Barron Gorge) and other rainforest Bama groups. Many local parks, walks, and natural features are sacred sites. Always be respectful, and consider taking a guided Indigenous tour to learn about the deep history of the land.
Top Restaurants
Skybury Cafe & Roastery [$15-$30] – Located on Australia’s oldest coffee plantation near Mareeba, this café offers panoramic views, farm-fresh papaya bowls, and coffee roasted on-site.
Gallo Dairyland Cafe [$15-$25] – A popular stop near Atherton, offering a cafe menu with house-made dairy products, including award-winning cheese and chocolate made right on the farm.
Mungalli Creek Dairy Farm & Café [$15-$25] – North Queensland’s only biodynamic farmhouse cheesery near Millaa Millaa, serving organic, house-made cheeses, yoghurts, and wholesome meals with stunning views of Mount Bartle Frere.
Shaylee Strawberries Farm & Cafe [$10-$20] – A charming, family-run farm near Atherton where you can pick your own strawberries and enjoy delicious treats like fresh strawberry ice cream and jam.
Coffee Works [$15-$25] – More than just a café in Mareeba, it’s a coffee and chocolate museum offering unlimited tastings of house-roasted coffee, liqueurs, and a cafe menu with light meals and sweets.
Wondarland Banana Factory [$10-$20] – A unique spot near Kuranda focusing on locally grown bananas, offering fresh juice, smoothies, and baked goods, showcasing the region’s tropical fruit.
The Falls Teahouse [$15-$25] – Overlooking lush green hills near Millaa Millaa, this teahouse is famous for its Devonshire tea with Malanda Dairy cream and locally-sourced jam. They also host popular wood-fired pizza nights on Fridays.
Sweet Farm Tours Cafe [$15-$25] – Part of Australia’s first cocoa and sugarcane experience, this cafe offers snacks and drinks highlighting their farm-grown produce near Mareeba.
Australian Platypus Park / Smokehouse Cafe [$20-$35] – Located at Tarzali Lakes near Malanda, this cafe serves a range of smokehouse products, including freshly smoked barramundi and chicken with local flavors, often enjoyed while watching for platypus.
Golden Drop Winery Cellar Door & Cafe [$15-$30] – Located near Mareeba, this unique establishment, originally a tobacco farm, specializes in mango wines and offers light lunches and tastings.
My Pantry [$15-$25] – A local favorite in Atherton that focuses on home-cooked meals, with options to eat in or take home frozen meals, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
Farmhouse Kitchen [$15-$25] – Located in Malanda, this spot is known for its hearty meals, fresh bakes, and strong focus on seasonal Tablelands ingredients.
Petals & Pinecones [$15-$25] – A unique, one-of-a-kind café in Atherton with a mission to spread happiness, known for its creative café fare and welcoming atmosphere.
The Ginger Garden [$15-$25] – A Malanda favorite specializing in fresh, house-made meals with a focus on local and natural ingredients, often incorporating ginger and other Tablelands produce.
Atherton International Club Bistro [$20-$35] – A community-focused bistro in Atherton offering classic, hearty meals with a friendly local vibe, a dependable spot for a substantial, non-touristy dinner.
Barron Falls Hotel [$20-$35] – A classic, spacious hotel in Kuranda with a bistro, sports bar, and a large outdoor deck, popular with locals for lunch and pub meals.
Kuranda Hotel (The Bottom Pub) [$15-$30] – A historic Kuranda pub offering traditional pub meals and a great atmosphere for a cold beer after exploring the village.
Yungaburra Hotel (The Pub) [$20-$35] – An iconic, historic pub in Yungaburra, a low-key bastion for classic pub grub, often packed with locals after the monthly market.
Ravenshoe Hotel [$15-$30] – Queensland’s highest pub, offering a rustic charm, cold beers, and big, satisfying pub meals in the town of Ravenshoe.
Barron Valley Hotel [$20-$35] – An art deco-style hotel in Atherton with a bistro and daily lunch and dinner specials, a staple in the town for casual dining.
Tolga Hotel [$15-$30] – A traditional, welcoming pub in the small town of Tolga, known for its friendly service and classic Australian pub fare.
Wotta Bout Fish ‘n’ Chips [$15-$25] – A popular, unpretentious fish and chip shop in Kuranda, known for its great value and generous servings, open later than most village eateries.
Malanda Bakery [$10-$20] – A local go-to in Malanda for fresh bread, classic Aussie pies, and pastries, perfect for a quick and hearty lunch.
Nick’s Restaurant Bar & Pizzeria [$25-$45] – An Atherton Tablelands institution in Yungaburra, established in 1986, renowned for its Swiss-Italian cuisine and excellent service.
Pagoda Chinese Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located at the Atherton Motel, this spot is an institution in the Atherton area, known for its delicious, authentic Chinese cuisine.
Hayabusa of Kuranda [$15-$30] – Located in the Original Kuranda Rainforest Markets, this eatery offers authentic Japanese home-style meals, wagashi sweets, and matcha tea.
La Fonda Latina [$15-$25] – A vibrant, family-run licensed café in the Original Rainforest Market in Kuranda, serving traditional Latin American flavors with a tropical twist, using local ingredients.
Northern Star Thai Restaurant [$20-$35] – A well-regarded Thai restaurant in Atherton, known for its fresh ingredients and authentic Thai flavors.
Jum Rum Pizza Pasta [$20-$35] – A popular Italian spot in Mareeba for classic pizzas and pasta dishes.
Dolce Vita Tablelands [$30-$50] – An Italian fine dining restaurant in Atherton, known for its sophisticated take on Italian cuisine and focus on fresh Tablelands produce.
Sapore di Italia [$20-$40] – An Italian restaurant located in Innisfail, close to the southern edge of the Tablelands, serving up classic Italian fare.
Our Place Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located in Yungaburra, this restaurant offers an Australian-Mediterranean fusion menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a small-town soul.
Pickle and Smoke [$20-$40] – Located in Malanda, this restaurant is known for its modern Australian cuisine, often incorporating smoked meats and local produce.
Noodlicious [$15-$25] – An Asian eatery in Atherton, popular for its quick, flavorful noodle dishes and Asian staples.
Baba Curry [$15-$25] – A Southeast Asian eatery in Atherton, offering flavorful, aromatic curries and other traditional dishes.
Atherton Kebab House [$15-$25] – A local favorite in Atherton for quick and satisfying Middle Eastern-style kebabs and wraps.
Here’s Good (Formerly Frogs on Coondoo) [$15-$25] – A cozy, laid-back café in the heart of Kuranda, loved by locals for its honest food, great coffee, and wholesome eats like the popular Kuranda corn fritters.
Wholesome Kuranda [$10-$20] – Located in the Heritage Markets, this spot focuses on certified organic and locally grown spray-free fruit and vegetables, offering healthy snacks and juices.
Pan-Ya Bakery [$10-$20] – Nestled in the Original Kuranda Rainforest Markets, a must-visit for fresh bread, authentic Japanese treats, and pastries.
Petit Cafe Kuranda [$10-$20] – A small, charming café in Kuranda, known for its good coffee and light, fresh breakfast and lunch options.
The Queen Bee Cafe [$10-$20] – A reliable spot in Kuranda for a classic café breakfast, coffee, and quick bites.
Riley’s Cafe & Bar [$10-$20] – A popular stop in Kuranda for breakfast, coffee, and fresh juice, offering all the favorites like eggs benny and avocado on toast.
Kuranda Tea Rooms [$15-$25] – Located at Platform 1 of the Kuranda Scenic Railway Station, offering a fine selection of freshly prepared hot and cold food, an atmospheric spot.
Cafe Mandala [$15-$25] – Located in the Kuranda Heritage Markets, a popular eatery offering a variety of meals, often with vegetarian and vegan options.
Sprout Juice & Coffee Bar [$10-$20] – A great Kuranda spot for a quick, healthy fix, specializing in fresh juices, smoothies, and quality coffee.
Fruibies [$10-$20] – An organic, vegan café, smoothie, and juice bar in Kuranda, perfect for those seeking healthy, plant-based, and locally sourced options.
Milkmaid Espresso Bar & Catering [$10-$20] – A bright, quirky café in Atherton with a great reputation for amazing coffee and classic brunch favorites.
The Gillies Café & Bar [$15-$25] – Located on the scenic Gillies Range Road in Yungaburra, offering breakfast, lunch, and a popular Friday tapas night with live music.
Whistle Stop Café [$15-$25] – A charming heritage café in Atherton, known for its quality classic eats and delicious homemade baked goods.
Spring Bean Café [$10-$20] – A small-town café in Tolga with a reputation for big flavor in its coffee and casual menu.
Lenny St Café [$15-$25] – A modern café in Tolga that doubles as an art space, offering a creative menu and a contemporary atmosphere.
Gallery 5 – Where The Coffee Hits The Spot [$10-$20] – A beloved café in Atherton where all food is baked in-house using local produce, known for its welcoming atmosphere and unique collection of gifts.
Troy’s Coffee Lounge [$10-$20] – A cozy, unpretentious coffee lounge in Atherton, a reliable spot for a good coffee and a simple snack or light meal.
Dee-Licious [$10-$20] – A local gem in Atherton offering café-style food and treats.
Mad Hatterz [$10-$20] – A quirky, fun café in Atherton known for its creative menu items and cheerful service.
Cottage Café [$10-$20] – A grab-and-go café in Atherton with seating, offering a wide range of fresh items including fish and chips, burgers, and breakfast.
Khans Curries [$15-$25] – A spot in Atherton specializing in flavorful, authentic curries.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Theo’s Bar (Atherton): This is a dedicated cocktail haven nestled in the heart of Atherton. It offers a vibrant atmosphere, focusing on an extensive menu of creative cocktails often crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s an ideal spot for a sophisticated drink.
The Kuranda Hotel Tap House and Bistro (Kuranda): Located on the eastern edge of the Atherton Tablelands near the Barron River, this historic hotel (built in 1890) features a famous bar and deck with spectacular views. It boasts a Tap House with a selection of locally brewed craft beers and a simple cocktail list for a classic jungle getaway vibe.
Barron Valley Hotel (Atherton): A historic hotel in Atherton known for its unique art deco style. While primarily a pub with a sports bar and bistro, it’s a great local spot for a relaxed drink in a classic, heritage-listed building.
The Malanda Hotel (Malanda): A grand, stately hotel in Malanda whose structure is worthy of a National Trust listing. It offers a traditional country pub experience with a bar service in a building that evokes the region’s pioneering days.
Peeramon Hotel (Peeramon): Often simply called the ‘Peeramon Pub,’ this venue on the Atherton Tablelands evokes the area’s pioneering history of mining, timber, and tobacco. It’s a classic, rustic spot for a simple, cold beverage and a chat with locals.
The Billabong Kuranda (Kuranda): Situated just 5 minutes from Kuranda Village, this lush property features a fabulous Saloon Bar and open-air deck beside a lake. It’s an ideal setting for an afternoon drink with no noise restrictions and often hosts large music events and festivals, providing a unique atmosphere.
The Australian Hotel (Herberton): A classic, local outback pub in Herberton that offers a great atmosphere and ice-cold beer. It’s known for its friendly service and is a good, clean place to stay for a traditional Queensland experience.
The Ant Hill Hotel (Tolga): A friendly local spot near Atherton, often praised for its excellent food, but it also provides a classic bar environment for a casual drink.
Post Office Hotel (Herberton): A no-fuss, traditional pub in Herberton offering a relaxed environment for drinks, often popular with locals.
Mount Molloy National Hotel (Mount Molloy): A historic hotel and pub that provides a genuine country welcome and a basic bar service, perfect for a refreshment while exploring the Tablelands.
Atherton International Club (Atherton): A lively hub on the Kennedy Highway that serves as a community center, offering a bar, dining, and gaming. While not a cocktail bar, it’s a popular local choice for drinks and a social night out.
Ravenshoe Millstream Country Club (Ravenshoe): A local club environment that is a great place to socialize, offering bar service and a taste of the community spirit in the southern Tablelands.
Watto’s Royal Hotel (Herberton): Situated in the high regions of the Atherton Tablelands, this pub offers great atmosphere, cold beer, and amazing scenic views. A perfect stop for a classic pub experience.
Butterfly Shop & Café Bar (Kuranda): A unique, licensed venue in Kuranda Village that serves both coffee/cake and a selection of cold beers, wines, and simple cocktails, blending a café, bar, and gift store.
Rainforestation Restaurant (Kuranda Range): Located strategically at the top of the Kuranda Range, its Treehouse Café offers drinks on an old-world veranda overlooking a picturesque lake, perfect for a relaxed post-exploration beverage.
Atherton International Club (Atherton): Functions as the closest thing to a general late-night venue in the area. It offers gaming, dining, and importantly, live music on Saturday nights, keeping its bar open later than many other local spots.
The Kuranda Hotel Tap House and Bistro (Kuranda): This historic hotel is a legendary spot for an entertaining nightlife, known for hosting local live music on Sundays and offering a friendly, lively pub atmosphere on weekend nights.
Barron Falls Hotel (Kuranda): Located near the famous Barron Falls, this hotel offers a lively atmosphere with a sports bar and gaming. It often hosts local live music on Sundays, making it a popular spot for an evening gathering.
Speewah Country Tavern (Kuranda/Speewah): Located in the nearby lush tropical location of Speewah, this tavern is a rustic spot known for its great selection of beers, wine, and spirits. Its unique location in the rainforest makes it a memorable, albeit more casual, late-night destination.
Malanda Showgrounds (Malanda – Event-Based): While not a permanent club, this is the site of various community events and festivals that draw large crowds and offer late-night music and bar facilities, such as the Tablelands Folk Festival.
Kuranda Roots Festival Venue (The Billabong, Kuranda – Event-Based): The Billabong grounds host the Kuranda Roots Festival and other large music concerts like the Rock This Country Blue Music Festival. These events offer significant, large-scale club-like experiences (with thousands of people) in an open-air venue with no noise restrictions, but they are event-specific.
Mareeba International Club (Mareeba): Similar to its Atherton counterpart, this club provides a community social environment with bar services and is a key location for local entertainment and late-night drinks in the Mareeba area.
Wondecla Sports Ground (Wondecla – Event-Based): Like the Malanda Showgrounds, this venue is noted for hosting large community gatherings and events, which often include late-night bar and music facilities for the duration of the event.
The Ant Hill Hotel (Tolga): A simple, country pub setting, but on certain nights, it can be a surprisingly lively local spot for a late-night drink and socialising.
Watto’s Royal Hotel (Herberton): Its pub atmosphere and scenic location make it a good choice for a relaxed, late-night drink with friends, particularly if you are staying in the Herberton area.