Savannahlander
Savannahlander
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About
The Savannahlander is a unique train journey that starts from Cairns, Australia. Using the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway it winds through he rainforest to the village of Kuranda and beyond. For the day tripper Mareeba is the best destination - with a bus connection back to Cairns via Kuranda. For those wanting a train trip through the Australian outback the train continues on to the end of the line at Forsayth. There are side visits to the Chillagoe caves, Cobbold Gorge and the Undara Lava Tubes available.
Cairns, Queensland, Australia
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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5.0
235 reviews
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204
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24
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4
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1
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2
14BUN
Australia331 contributions
Aug 2021
This trip was recommended to me many years ago, by someone who thought a trip through the Savannah outback in FNQ was the bees' knees. I, personally, wouldn't go that far. Lots of red dirt/dust and savannah scrub; it goes on forever.
If you're a train enthusiast, you'll lap up every minute of the experience.
The Savannahlander is a rail motor and operates under contract to Queensland Rail. Staff are not employed by Queensland Rail (QR). It is a privately run enterprise and the focus on customer service is excellent. I cannot fault Savannahlander employees at all. Wil and Anthony were our Drivers for the trip and I have to say, Wil provides the most entertaining and informative talks on all things fauna; it's obvious he used to work in a Zoo.
Being able to sit in the Driver's seat on the train is amazing. It's scary at first, but once the fear of seeing everything come at you, is overcome, it's a very interesting ride; definitely a must do on the trip.
The scheduling of the itinerary was an issue for us; early starts and long days travelling did not leave any time for individual sightseeing/exploration around the venues we stayed, once eating and sleeping was done. It would have been great to spend more time at Cobbold Gorge and Undara, just looking around, but we were rushed in and out. If the tight itinerary is designed to entice one to make a return visit, that's not going to happen as far as I'm concerned.
Having done the Kuranda tourist train trip a few of times over a couple of decades, I have to say riding the Savannahlander down from Kuranda to Cairns provides a far better view and is much more pleasant.
Am I glad I've done this train trip?; absolutely.
Would I do it again?; doubtful.
Would I recommend it? Yes, but do check out the itinerary first to see if it works for you. There are some options.
If you're a train enthusiast, you'll lap up every minute of the experience.
The Savannahlander is a rail motor and operates under contract to Queensland Rail. Staff are not employed by Queensland Rail (QR). It is a privately run enterprise and the focus on customer service is excellent. I cannot fault Savannahlander employees at all. Wil and Anthony were our Drivers for the trip and I have to say, Wil provides the most entertaining and informative talks on all things fauna; it's obvious he used to work in a Zoo.
Being able to sit in the Driver's seat on the train is amazing. It's scary at first, but once the fear of seeing everything come at you, is overcome, it's a very interesting ride; definitely a must do on the trip.
The scheduling of the itinerary was an issue for us; early starts and long days travelling did not leave any time for individual sightseeing/exploration around the venues we stayed, once eating and sleeping was done. It would have been great to spend more time at Cobbold Gorge and Undara, just looking around, but we were rushed in and out. If the tight itinerary is designed to entice one to make a return visit, that's not going to happen as far as I'm concerned.
Having done the Kuranda tourist train trip a few of times over a couple of decades, I have to say riding the Savannahlander down from Kuranda to Cairns provides a far better view and is much more pleasant.
Am I glad I've done this train trip?; absolutely.
Would I do it again?; doubtful.
Would I recommend it? Yes, but do check out the itinerary first to see if it works for you. There are some options.
Written 3 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ella M
10 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
I did the 4 day Savannahlander trip with my toddler. The highlight for him was definitely when Wil caught a feral pig to show everyone and on another occasion a beautiful carpet python which Wil took around the outside of the train, at great excitement of all passengers.
We were given lots of options by Wil and Leigh such as either showing up early prior to departure to take pics and see how things are done or to enjoy our morning at leisure. We had a full train but they worked swiftly to ensure on time departures. I work in customer service and Wil and Leigh’s flexibility and doing their best to cater to passengers’ individual needs really impressed me. They don’t just drive the train, then entertain, the load baggage, they serve refreshments, the provide first aid, and they do all of this whilst working long days and maintaining a friendly, positive demeanour. Not an easy job, hats off to you boys!
There were a lot of long periods to enjoy the scenery in peace, but also lots of opportunities for fun conversation where the boys went through questions they’re frequently asked. They explained when they would and wouldn’t talk, and why and what about, allowing us to listen to what was important to us.
I thoroughly enjoyed hearing how Wil and Leigh got into driving trains, and their rapport developed from working together in other industries certainly enhances their team work and cohesive service delivery on the Savannahlander.
Both guys provided very detailed information about the local history, flora, fauna and anything else passengers cared to ask about.
There was a lot of laughter and enjoyment amongst all passengers thanks to the great sense of humour of both the boys, much of which was tongue and cheek and not to be taken too seriously. I noticed passengers were particularly eager to chat to Wil about his wildlife experience and joke around with him with ease.
Well done guys and look forward to doing the trip again in future!
We were given lots of options by Wil and Leigh such as either showing up early prior to departure to take pics and see how things are done or to enjoy our morning at leisure. We had a full train but they worked swiftly to ensure on time departures. I work in customer service and Wil and Leigh’s flexibility and doing their best to cater to passengers’ individual needs really impressed me. They don’t just drive the train, then entertain, the load baggage, they serve refreshments, the provide first aid, and they do all of this whilst working long days and maintaining a friendly, positive demeanour. Not an easy job, hats off to you boys!
There were a lot of long periods to enjoy the scenery in peace, but also lots of opportunities for fun conversation where the boys went through questions they’re frequently asked. They explained when they would and wouldn’t talk, and why and what about, allowing us to listen to what was important to us.
I thoroughly enjoyed hearing how Wil and Leigh got into driving trains, and their rapport developed from working together in other industries certainly enhances their team work and cohesive service delivery on the Savannahlander.
Both guys provided very detailed information about the local history, flora, fauna and anything else passengers cared to ask about.
There was a lot of laughter and enjoyment amongst all passengers thanks to the great sense of humour of both the boys, much of which was tongue and cheek and not to be taken too seriously. I noticed passengers were particularly eager to chat to Wil about his wildlife experience and joke around with him with ease.
Well done guys and look forward to doing the trip again in future!
Written 8 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MTolich
Auckland, New Zealand5 contributions
Oct 2022
We traveled on the Savannahlander in early October. I have to start by saying our crew, Hamish and Wil were excellent. They were knowledgeable on the history of the line and the flora and fauna we encountered along the way. The Savannah scenery was totally different to what we see in our home country. We booked the Savannah Explorer tour which has a number of off train experiences. All except Cobbold Gorge were excellent. The trip to the gorge is a 2 hour bus trip over outback roads in a cramped, uncomfortable bus with no stops along the way. Arrival at the gorge is late afternoon in low light meaning the colours are very muted. Also the peace and serenity of the gorge is constantly shattered by a low flying helicopter doing sightseeing flights. It is so loud you can't hear your guide speak. Give it a miss. The experience at Chillagoe and Mount Surprise/ Undara Lava Tubes was excellent. We stayed at the Chillagoe Hotel Motel where our hosts were wonderful. A great experience. I have seen reviews complaining that the accommodation is not 4 star. It isn't. But you are going on this trip for an outback experience and that's what it is. We found the accommodation perfectly adequate, clean and comfortable with friendly hosts.
The train is a great experience and we met some wonderful people amongst our fellow travelers. The train is not air conditioned but you can open the windows and get a cooling breeze. There is fresh water supplied and you need to drink as outside temperatures, at the time we traveled, reached 37 degrees C. I would have given this trip 5 stars but for one thing, apart from Cobbold. We turned up at the train one morning to find a tour group waiting to board. This group was boarded first and given the front coach which has views out the front of the train. After they were seated those of us, who had paid for the full trip, were allowed to board and had to take whatever seats were left. For the rest of the day the tour group appeared to receive preferential treatment. This did not go down well with the passengers who had paid full fare. I spoke to the train crew who said it was company policy. I would suggest this is a policy the company changes. The group was only there for a day but it left a sour taste with many of the other passengers.
Overall I would recommend this trip, with the above caveats, if you are keen for something totally different and a small adventure.
The train is a great experience and we met some wonderful people amongst our fellow travelers. The train is not air conditioned but you can open the windows and get a cooling breeze. There is fresh water supplied and you need to drink as outside temperatures, at the time we traveled, reached 37 degrees C. I would have given this trip 5 stars but for one thing, apart from Cobbold. We turned up at the train one morning to find a tour group waiting to board. This group was boarded first and given the front coach which has views out the front of the train. After they were seated those of us, who had paid for the full trip, were allowed to board and had to take whatever seats were left. For the rest of the day the tour group appeared to receive preferential treatment. This did not go down well with the passengers who had paid full fare. I spoke to the train crew who said it was company policy. I would suggest this is a policy the company changes. The group was only there for a day but it left a sour taste with many of the other passengers.
Overall I would recommend this trip, with the above caveats, if you are keen for something totally different and a small adventure.
Written 10 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jane W
Adelaide, Australia7 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
We met Wil in Forsayth while staying in the caravan park. His passion for the Savannahlander was infectious, so despite having seen all the attractions offered on the 4 day trip we decided to do an overnighter to Almaden and back to Cairns on the bus from Mt Surprise. The knowledge of the drivers for the area was amazing, but for me the highlight was seeing Wil put his love of all things nature into action. He took some fallen hollow logs home and modified them to be used as roosting boxes for bat's or birds This takes your job to another level. Thank you to the Savannahlander for such a unique opportunity.
Written 28 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gail D
Perth, Australia104 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Having travelled all over the world, I recommend this experience as unique and unforgetable. It is unique because of the off-train photographic experiences in bushland, the ongoing commentary delivered cheerfully and extremely well and the heritage train experience itself. Do yourself a favour, but book 12 months in advance if possible to be sure of your place at all the options (we didn't). If you get drivers Hamish and Wil you experience will be even better! They are so knowledgeable and very good at delivering commentary at a level that's technical but easily understood. This trip was recomnended to us 3 years ago and we have Facebooked all our friends daily to tell them how fantastic it is and to be sure to book.
Written 16 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
travellerstwoofus
victoria10 contributions
May 2021
We loved every minute of this fabulous four day trip on the Savannahlander, an historic train which departs from Cairns every Wednesday to outback Forsayth (425km) and back. Favourite parts included the train drivers' great commentary and the varied and interesting scenery, from rainforest to savannah. The off train overnight accommodation is great and the 'side' trips to Chillagoe caves, Cobbold Gorge and the Undara lava tubes (largest in the world) are spectacular. Hamish and Will (drivers and guides) keep passengers entertained with great yarns and stories about the history, local characters and flora and fauna of the region. If you want a genuine Aussie experience, this is it!
Written 30 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hhx2_12
Cairns, Australia1,813 contributions
Nov 2020
We went by Bus to Mt Surprise to stay one night at the Bedrock village Cabins.
Boarding was early morning. We thought it was a Tourbus but to our disappointment it was more a Postal run . The driver was very rude and we stopped only 2x for a break.
Other stops were more like collecting parcels and letters.
The whole Bustrip took around 5 hours.
No eating or drinking on the Bus was allowed.
Arriving at our Accommodation I was surprised to find such a nice well kept and well equiped Cabin in the middle of the Outback.
After a quiet night and early breakfast we boarded the Savannahlander.
What a great Trip.
The 2 Drivers were very informative and funny.
Several stops were done en route.
Great photo and Video opportunities were given in the middle of nowhere.
Please note
There is no A/C on the train, but all windows can be opened to get the breeze.
Toilets are onboard which were clean ...
There is no food onboard but BYO is allowed. Fresh water fountains were in the carriages.
If you have the time, take the Savannahlander both ways, so much more fun and you can move around.
Piti my battery went flat, no photos to show you.
Boarding was early morning. We thought it was a Tourbus but to our disappointment it was more a Postal run . The driver was very rude and we stopped only 2x for a break.
Other stops were more like collecting parcels and letters.
The whole Bustrip took around 5 hours.
No eating or drinking on the Bus was allowed.
Arriving at our Accommodation I was surprised to find such a nice well kept and well equiped Cabin in the middle of the Outback.
After a quiet night and early breakfast we boarded the Savannahlander.
What a great Trip.
The 2 Drivers were very informative and funny.
Several stops were done en route.
Great photo and Video opportunities were given in the middle of nowhere.
Please note
There is no A/C on the train, but all windows can be opened to get the breeze.
Toilets are onboard which were clean ...
There is no food onboard but BYO is allowed. Fresh water fountains were in the carriages.
If you have the time, take the Savannahlander both ways, so much more fun and you can move around.
Piti my battery went flat, no photos to show you.
Written 16 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shirley d
Brisbane, Australia357 contributions
Oct 2020
I have just returned home from doing a 4 day trip on the Savannahlander. It was such a wonderful journey - from start to finish. I travelled with a group of 20, and we were looked after in superb fashion. Our incredible drivers/guides were Will and Lee, and I can't praise them enough for their expertise in every aspect of the journey. They were a font of information on so many 'outback' subjects, and stopped the train at various points to collect flowers to show us, show us wildlife, etc. along the way. I enjoyed the trip so much, I would be happy to do it again, possibly at the beginning of the season, when the rivers and creeks were still flowing.
Written 19 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jane McBride
Brisbane, Australia26 contributions
June 2021 • Friends
84 year old father arranged the Savannahlander trip from Mt Surprise back to Cairns on a Saturday in July 2021 for two 50s daughters and Japanese son-in-law, as part of two week trip from Brisbane to Karumba. It was just fantastic even for non-train buffs. The drivers, Anthony and Hamish, were our guides for the 10 hour trip. Great views from the front carriage and very good sound system so no trouble hearing and following the commentary as the surroundings changed. Both drivers are very well informed and passionate about the train, it’s history, and the flora and fauna along the route so it was hard not to get swept along. They seem to have the discretion to slow down and stop and show passengers various things and places of interest along the way which makes for a magical and very special journey.
Written 6 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robyn S
13 contributions
Nov 2022
In November 2022 we were lucky enough to join the Savannahlander train at Mt Surprise and travel all the way to Cairns, with a small change of plans at Forsyth due to unforeseen Bush fire in and around the tracks! All good after we had a great bus ride to Mt Surprise from Forsayth driven by Stephen and was very informative and got us back on track. The Savannahlander crew, Mike, Will and Sandra had our safety as a priority and they knew what they were doing in difficult times but never lost their nerve and we all felt safe!
Wills knowledge of all things wildlife is absolutely amazing and we on this particular trip were fortunate to see his ability to firstly spot wild life and then to stop the train and collect a (two stripe lizard) and show us all! No wonder Will was recently awarded a prestigious award for his efforts and knowledge and more importantly his ability to relay that information to his passengers.
Sandra was undergoing assessment at the time to become a fully fledged and recognised train driver! The very first female Savannahlander train driver receiving her accreditation at the end of the journey! A sincere congratulations to Sandra for her commitment and achievements! I think we will hear a lot more about Sandra’s achievements in years to come.
Lastly the silent achiever is Mike the ‘old head’ of the team, who was assessing Sandra along the way. Mike told us he had done 20 years in the Royal Australian Navy and that experience and quiet ability showed through.
Well done to all of you and thank you for a memorable experience!
Wills knowledge of all things wildlife is absolutely amazing and we on this particular trip were fortunate to see his ability to firstly spot wild life and then to stop the train and collect a (two stripe lizard) and show us all! No wonder Will was recently awarded a prestigious award for his efforts and knowledge and more importantly his ability to relay that information to his passengers.
Sandra was undergoing assessment at the time to become a fully fledged and recognised train driver! The very first female Savannahlander train driver receiving her accreditation at the end of the journey! A sincere congratulations to Sandra for her commitment and achievements! I think we will hear a lot more about Sandra’s achievements in years to come.
Lastly the silent achiever is Mike the ‘old head’ of the team, who was assessing Sandra along the way. Mike told us he had done 20 years in the Royal Australian Navy and that experience and quiet ability showed through.
Well done to all of you and thank you for a memorable experience!
Written 8 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there,
have booked the 4 day trip for May 2023.
Would love any tips on packing.
What did you pack that was a success?
What did you wish you packed?
What did you pack that you didn't need? etc etc
Written 4 December 2022
I did the 'Rail Runner' trip in May 2022. The temperature was in the mid to high twenties for the whole of the trip, so hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are advisable.
Keep anything you may need between overnight stops in a separate day pack - your main bag is in an open area of the train, but may not be readily accessible.
If you are device heavy, take a small multi outlet powerboard for charging phones, cameras, watches etc.
Carry some cash for incidental purchases along the way (Dimbulah, Almaden, Einasleigh, Mt. Surprise, Forsayth) as EFTPOS can be slow, and staff at some of the remote stops can be exceptionally busy when the train arrives and its passengers start making demands :-).
Enjoy!
Written 4 December 2022
Hi, would love to do when I am passing through. Can I do it as a single and does it cost more?
Written 10 February 2019
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there - yes single travellers are most welcome on the Savannahlander. The cost depends on what fare or package you would like to do. In a nutshell we would charge you for one rail fare, however for most of the packages which include accommodation you will need to pay for a whole room (usually shared cost in a double or twin-share). This comes out in our pricing as the "Single Supplement".
Please see our website and click on "Tours" for all the details.
Written 10 April 2019
Does it stop at Chillagoe? And how do I get back to Cairns from there?
Written 25 October 2018
Hi, The Savvanahlander stops the first night at Almaden and you bus into Chillagoe as the train line no longer goes there. After Chillagoe you have another 2 nights/3 days on the train. If you speak to the Savvanahlander people you maybe able to spend 3 nights in Chillagoe and catch the train from Almaden on the return journey.
The 4 days are a great trip.
Written 26 October 2018
What time does the Barron River Rover leave Cairns station please?
Thanks Glenn.
Written 3 October 2017
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there Glenn,
Thanks for your question, the Barron River Rover is a "short tour" that we offer that allows you to depart with the rest of the group doing the 4 day tour but return on the first day by bus.
If effect, you leave with the normal service which departs the platform at 6:30 am every Wednesday morning. Keep in mind that you will need to allow time to purchase your tickets and get on board, so it's best to arrive 15 minutes early at the Cairns Central Railway Station.
Regards,
Robert.
Written 5 October 2017
morning just wondering if this tour is suitable for familys ? one having special needs. thank you
Written 28 September 2016
It depends on how severe the 'special needs' is. If it is a mobility issue, the train has a lift which was used for luggage and a number of elderly passengers used this to get on and off the train easily. The staff were most cooperative and helpful with this. If toiletting is an issue, it would not be suitable. There is no handicapped toilet on the train, and because of the roughness of the track at times men were advised to sit while using the toilet. I think you would also need to check the accessibility of the night stopovers, they could advise on your needs. Cobbold Gorge and the Lava Tubes would not be at all suitable for wheelchairs. The board walks at the Lava tubes have a number of steps.
The trip is quite suitable for families, but children would need to be able to cope with each day's lengthy train trips. Parental support and management would be needed. You can take snacks and drinks on board and store them in the cooler. There is also plenty of opportunity to walk up and down the carriage and also sit with the driver. My grandchildren would have enjoyed it.
Written 29 September 2016
Hi there,
Can you tell me the difference between the two four day tours apart from the cost and also as I'm hoping to go in November, will the cobbold gorge definitely be off the itinerary. Will there be any chance of any swimming on any of the trips?
Thanks
Written 22 July 2016
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there!
Thanks for your question. There have been some changes to the accommodation providers along the route and for the 2017 season (and onwards!) the ONLY difference will be that for the Outback Odyssey for Wednesday night we will accommodate you in the Chillagoe Cabins (as a preference, and the Chillagoe Guesthouse if the Cabins are full) plus that on the Thursday night you will stay at the Undara Lava Lodge in either their Railway Carriages Cabins or in their Pioneer Huts. Due to a limited availability of these venues we will only be offering this tour (The Outback Odyssey) on selected dates throughout the year.
For the Savannah Explorer (which will run on most dates) you will be staying at Chillagoe in the Ecolodge (by preference with overflow to the Motel) and that on Thursday night you will stay in Mt Surprise at the Bedrock Village Caravan Park (Ensuite Cabins) and do a bus tour of the Undara Lava Tubes.
Hopefully that helps - please feel free to ask if you have any other questions!
Written 29 August 2016
Hi Beth. What time of year did you travel? How did you handle the heat with no air conditioning on the train? Thanks Helen
Written 29 May 2016
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there Helen!
Thanks for the question - you are correct that the train itself is not air-conditioned, but all the windows open and you are free to move around inside the carriage.
For most of the year it is a very pleasant temperature, but on occasions later in the year (around December) it has been known to get a bit warm. As the train moves through the country the temperature does vary, and the airflow through the windows is very nice!
If you like, we can recommend that you bring along a towel to sit on to make your trip more comfortable.
It is also correct that we have water on the train along with a cooler box to keep your drinks cool. If you would like to stock the Esky with cans or bottles of drinks - just ask your friendly drivers to stop and fill the Esky with crushed ice to keep your drinks frosty-cold!
Thanks again for the question!
Written 30 May 2016
Savannahlander
Cairns, Australia
Hi there! Yes there certainly is. The train departs from Cairns Central railway station and their is a standing arrangement that you can leave your car parked there for free if you are travelling on the train. Please talk to the parking station attendants when you arrive to make the required arrangements.
Written 7 September 2015
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