What a delightful trip we had on the skyrail up to the touristy town of Kuranda! The skyrail journey was fantastic- with interesting stops and rainforest walks and an information centre where we learnt more about the area and history. Everyone was super friendly and Amelia loved riding above the forest canopy. Following the information booklet we were able to identify many landmarks, trees, wildlife and interesting spots. Kuranda- the town itself is perfect, just big enough and full of interesting people, places, art and special places. You just need to look past the obvious tourist focus and see it for what it is; a lovely little spot.
Riding the skyrail
Looking back towards Cairns
One of the short rainforest walks on the way up the mountain.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway train heading back down
Crossing the Barrum River in the air
When we reached Kuranda we looked through the art galleries and fantastic markets, eventually finding our way to the Butterfly Sanctuary, which is the largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibition in Australia. The sanctuary is home to 1500 tropical butterflies which are hand reared on site in the hatchery, with approximately 30,000 caterpillars being grown in the lab. For your information, 24,000 pupae are released every year- some of the species only live 10-15 days! Further can be found at http://www.australianbutterflies.com/
Cairns Birdwing
Resting on my arm (apparently if you wear white or red they will land on you!)
Not the easiest photographic subjects!
Here's the famous Ullyses (this one's male) 
Unfortunately I couldn't find one to sit still long enough for me to capture on the camera.
The ride back on the Kuranda Scenic Railway was also good fun... The railway travels from Cairns to Kuranda in the Macalister Ranges, through hand cut tunnels (15), across towering bridges, through lush tropical world heritage listed rainforest and the impressive Barron Gorge. Originally built in 1886 after a long bitter battle regarding exact location, to service tin mining camps. Actually construction was mired by various issues; sickness, tough working conditions, and challenges lengthened the project, which was finally opened in 1891. A bit squeaky, the train is only used for tourist purposes now.
Unfortunately I couldn't find one to sit still long enough for me to capture on the camera.
The ride back on the Kuranda Scenic Railway was also good fun... The railway travels from Cairns to Kuranda in the Macalister Ranges, through hand cut tunnels (15), across towering bridges, through lush tropical world heritage listed rainforest and the impressive Barron Gorge. Originally built in 1886 after a long bitter battle regarding exact location, to service tin mining camps. Actually construction was mired by various issues; sickness, tough working conditions, and challenges lengthened the project, which was finally opened in 1891. A bit squeaky, the train is only used for tourist purposes now.
I'll add some more photos when I get them off my phone (the camera battery died during the day!)
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