Experience one of Australia’s great rail journeys. Departing from Cairns we travel over 400 kilometres into the heart of the Aussie outback on a classic 1960’s era train. The Savannahlander isn’t just for the rail enthusiast, it’s a great way to experience the Queensland outback, stopping at small country towns and also touring places of great natural beauty like Chillagoe Caves and Copperfield Gorge.

We rattle our way from the coast, up the scenic Kuranda Range including stops at Barron Falls and Stoney Creek, through World Heritage listed rainforests to Kuranda.  This is a popular section of track known for it’s stunning scenery, travelling through 15 tunnels and lush tropical rainforest from Kuranda we travel over 400 kilometres averaging about 30 kilometres per hour on a lovingly restored vintage train.

The journey is not just for rail buffs, the Savannahlander is a perfect way to experience the real Queensland outback and there is plenty of time to soak up the scenery as it transitions from rainforest to open Savannah.

Stopping at small country towns along the way we catch up with some interesting locals and experience some breath taking scenery.

In episode one, we stop at Stoney Creek Falls, Barron Falls and the historic Pub at Lappa. We take in the sights at Mt Surprise, tour the awesome Chillagoe caves and also visit Einasleigh and the magnificent Copperfield Gorge.

Episode two takes us further into the outback all the way to the end of the line in Forsayth where we travel on to spectacular Cobbold Gorge, experience a fascinating geological phenomenon at the Undara Lave Lubes and of course more stunning scenery from the cabin of the Savannahlander.

The Savannahlander operates for 42 weeks of the year (March until December) and departs on its four day adventure from Cairns Station on Wednesday mornings at 6.30 am, except during the week leading to Easter. 

Official Websites:

Queensland Holidays
Savannahlander
Chillagoe Cabins and Caves
Cobbold Gorge
The Undara Experience