Discover North Queensland, from outback and bush to reef and rails | 1 August – 11 August 2026
Travel aboard Australia’s legendary outback railways, including the Gulflander, Savannahlander and Kuranda Scenic Railway, experiencing historic lines, remote communities and ever-changing Queensland landscapes.
Journey from tropical Cairns and rainforest highlands to the wide-open savannah and the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria, showcasing the extraordinary diversity of North Queensland.
Enjoy hand-picked highlights including rainforest cableways, heritage rail museums, Cobbold Gorge, outback towns and Gulf sunsets - each chosen to complement the rail journey.
Accommodation, meals, transfers, rail journeys, excursions and admissions are included, allowing you to relax and enjoy a seamless, professionally hosted tour from start to finish.
With a limited group size of no more than 30 and experienced GVR tour leaders, enjoy a relaxed pace, personal attention and the camaraderie of travelling with fellow rail and adventure enthusiasts.
A selection of experiences featured on this journey.
The iconic Gulflander has been linking the Gulf Savannah since 1891. This heritage rail journey follows Australia’s oldest continuously operating railway, crossing remote plains and historic sidings, and offers a rare glimpse into pioneering outback rail travel and life on the Gulf frontier.
The legendary Savannahlander journeys through the heart of Far North Queensland’s outback. Purpose-built for remote conditions, it links isolated towns across the Gulf Savannah, offering a relaxed, story-filled rail experience that showcases pioneering rail routes, rugged landscapes and authentic outback hospitality.
Opened in 1891, the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway climbs from Cairns into the rainforest-clad Barron Gorge. Built by hand through tunnels and bridges, this engineering marvel delivers dramatic views of waterfalls, cliffs and World Heritage rainforest on one of Australia’s most celebrated rail journeys.
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway glides above ancient rainforest, rivers and waterfalls, offering a unique aerial perspective of one of the world’s oldest living landscapes.
Hidden in the Gulf Savannah, Cobbold Gorge reveals towering sandstone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and a dramatic glass bridge within an ancient, rugged outback landscape.
The Daintree Rainforest is one of the world’s oldest rainforests, where dense jungle, rare wildlife and tropical rivers meet the Coral Sea.
Depart Auckland on your optional flight package with Air New Zealand travelling on NZ 0161 to Cairns or make your own way and meet the group in Cairns. On arrival in tropical Far North Queensland, transfer into the city and enjoy an introductory afternoon tour, offering a first taste of Cairns’ relaxed coastal atmosphere and vibrant surrounds. Following the tour, we will arrive at hotel where the remainder of the afternoon is free to relax, settle in, or explore at your own pace. In the evening, regroup with your fellow travellers for a Welcome Function, marking the beginning of your North Queensland journey and providing an opportunity to meet your tour hosts and companions.
Accommodation: Novotel Cairns Oasis - or similar
After breakfast, depart Cairns for a scenic journey into the fertile Atherton Tablelands. Travel south through sugarcane country before climbing the winding Gillies Highway into cool-climate forests and productive farming landscapes. Visit the Mining Museum before continuing to the Herberton Historic Railway Museum, where you’ll learn about the region’s railway heritage and restoration work. Enjoy a heritage train journey along the old line to the Historic Village, usually steam-hauled by the 1905 Peckett locomotive (or heritage diesel if required). A relaxed Tablelands lunch is included during the day. Spend time exploring the award-winning Historic Village with its original buildings, shops, vehicles and exhibits. Return to Cairns via Mareeba, arriving mid to late afternoon.
Travel from Cairns to Karumba today, journeying west across the dramatic landscapes of Far North Queensland. Leaving the tropical coast behind, the scenery gradually changes from lush rainforest and sugarcane country to open savannah, rugged ranges and vast outback plains. Along the way, pass remote townships, winding rivers and wide horizons that highlight the scale and isolation of Australia’s Gulf Country. As you approach Karumba, the landscape flattens and opens toward the Gulf of Carpentaria, with coastal wetlands, mangroves and tidal waterways appearing near the shoreline. Arrive in this relaxed fishing town on the edge of the Gulf and transfer to your accommodation.
This morning, after a hearty breakfast, those interested may join an optional bird-watching cruise with Karumba Tours, exploring the river and estuaries while learning about the town’s history as the gateway to the Gulf. The remainder of the morning is free to relax and enjoy Karumba at your own pace. An optional visit to the Barramundi Discovery Centre can also be arranged by your tour leader. For guests seeking a different perspective, an optional helicopter flight over the Gulf region can be facilitated, subject to availability. In the late afternoon, regroup for a memorable Sunset Dinner Cruise. Cruise out into the Gulf of Carpentaria, watching the sky and sea glow with colour before anchoring at Sun Island (tide and weather permitting), a strikingly flat sand cay. Enjoy a light dinner featuring banana prawns, a local fish specialty, tropical fruit platters and chilled drinks as the sun sets over the Gulf.
Enjoy breakfast before an early transfer from Karumba to Normanton. En route, stop at Krys the Croc for a photo opportunity. Board the iconic Gulflander at Normanton Railway Station and travel west through the Gulf Savannah, pausing at Blackbull Siding to enjoy a relaxed morning tea beside the train. Arrive at the historic gold-mining town of Croydon, where you’ll transfer by coach for lunch and a guided tour of the town’s key sights. Continue onward to Forsayth, arriving late afternoon and settling in for a two-night stay at Finnigans Rest.
This morning, depart Forsayth for a guided visit to the stunning Cobbold Gorge (departure times to be confirmed with your hosts at Finnigans Rest). Lunch is included at Cobbold Village. The tour features a guided boat cruise through the gorge, followed by an optional scenic walk of approximately 1.5km. The circuit climbs to the gorge rim, crosses the sandstone escarpment and glass bridge, and returns to the boats, taking around 1 to 1 ¼ hours. Guests not wishing to walk may relax near the boats. Return to Forsayth in the afternoon, with opportunities to enjoy the area’s striking sunsets and clear, star-filled skies.
This morning, transfer from Forsayth to Einasleigh. On arrival, enjoy time for a refreshing drink and included lunch at the historic Einasleigh Hotel. There is also an opportunity to walk to nearby Copperfield Gorge, formed by ancient lava flows, with an easy return walk of around 800 metres. After lunch, transfer from the Einasleigh Hotel to board the Savannahlander for the next stage of your rail journey. Travel through the Gulf Savannah toward Mount Surprise, enjoying the changing outback landscapes along the way. On arrival at Mount Surprise, collect your luggage from the train as directed by the crew. You will be met at the station by staff from Discovery Parks Mount Surprise and transferred directly to the park for your overnight stay.
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After your transfer, board the Savannahlander in Mount Surprise for a memorable rail journey through Far North Queensland’s diverse landscapes. Travel through the open savannah and rural countryside, witnessing tropical fruit farms, cane fields and rolling tablelands as you head toward Mareeba. Mid-morning, stop at Almaden Station for an included lunch at the historic Railway Hotel, tucked beside the tracks in this quiet outback village. Continue through the Atherton Tablelands, where the scenery shifts with changing terrain and glimpses of rural life. In the afternoon, arrive at Dimbulah for a classic station-museum afternoon tea served by local volunteers (cash only), a charming slice of community hospitality. By late afternoon the train reaches Mareeba. Here the Savannahlander journey concludes; passengers continuing to Cairns will transfer to a chartered coach due to the Kuranda line closure.
Enjoy a relaxed Sunday exploring the highlights of Far North Queensland’s tropical north. Travel north from Cairns to the coastal village of Port Douglas, where you’ll have time to browse the vibrant Sunday Markets, showcasing local produce, crafts and tropical flavours. Continue on to the lush rainforest of Mossman Gorge, set within the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Enjoy a guided walk and free time to admire crystal-clear waters, towering rainforest and rich Indigenous heritage. The journey continues deeper into the Daintree region, where dense rainforest meets winding rivers and tropical scenery. Take in the unique landscapes and learn about one of the world’s oldest living rainforests before returning south in the late afternoon after a memorable day immersed in nature.
Enjoy a full day immersed in the rainforest wonders of Tropical North Queensland. This morning, glide above the canopy on the iconic Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, offering breathtaking views over ancient rainforest, rivers and waterfalls. On arrival in Kuranda, continue to Rainforestation Nature Park, where you’ll experience the region’s natural and cultural heritage through guided rainforest activities and wildlife encounters. Spend time exploring Kuranda village at your leisure before boarding the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway for the journey back down the range. Travel in Gold Class comfort, enjoying premium seating, refreshments and panoramic views as the railway winds through tunnels, bridges and dramatic rainforest scenery, completing a memorable day in Far North Queensland.
Today marks the conclusion of your journey. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Cairns Airport. Guests who have selected the optional flight package will depart on Air New Zealand flight NZ0162, travelling from Cairns back to Auckland. For those making their own onward arrangements, the morning is free to relax or explore before your transfer. Farewell your fellow travellers and tour hosts as you begin your journey home, taking with you lasting memories of Far North Queensland’s landscapes, rail journeys and tropical experiences.
Choose your preferred tour finish point. Prices shown are per person and in NZD (New Zealand Dollars).
| Tour | Twin Share | Single Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Australian Rail Safari: North Queensland | $9,490 | $1,590 |
| A deposit of $1000 per person is required to secure your booking. | ||
The following optional services can be added to your booking to tailor the tour to your needs.
Limited spaces available — secure your place on this unforgettable rail journey.
Book NowTo get the most from this tour, participants should be comfortable walking approximately 500 metres at a relaxed pace, including some uneven surfaces at stations and attractions.
You’ll also need to manage a short flight of stairs (where lifts are not available) and handle your own luggage during hotel check-ins and transfers. If you have mobility concerns, please let our tours team know — we’re happy to discuss suitability and practical assistance options.
