Savannahlander Train Tour – Discover the magic of Far North Queensland on an unforgettable four-day railway adventure with Leyland’s Travel Australia.
4 Days | 3 Nights | Departing Cairns | 2027 Tours
Discover the magic of Outback Queensland aboard the legendary Savannahlander!
Step back in time and experience one of Australia’s most memorable heritage railway adventures.
Travel aboard the iconic Savannahlander Train Tour, affectionately known as the Silver Bullet, as you journey through the spectacular landscapes of Far North Queensland’s Gulf Savannah region.
Over four unforgettable days, discover historic railway towns, fascinating limestone caves, dramatic sandstone gorges and extraordinary volcanic landscapes.
From the underground wonders of Chillagoe to the breathtaking beauty of Cobbold Gorge and the ancient Undara Lava Tubes, this is an Australian outback adventure filled with history, natural wonders and country hospitality.
Your package includes three nights’ accommodation, guided sightseeing experiences, meals and the transfers required throughout the journey.
2027 prices from $2,000 per adult, twin share.
Tour highlights
- The Savannahlander: Travel aboard a classic heritage railmotor through Queensland’s beautiful outback.
- Chillagoe Caves: Discover ancient limestone formations and the fascinating history of this historic mining town.
- Cobbold Gorge: Cruise through a spectacular narrow sandstone gorge aboard a quiet electric-powered boat.
- Undara Lava Tubes: Explore the remarkable volcanic formations created by ancient lava flows.
- Copperfield Gorge: Discover the dramatic geological landscape beside the historic town of Einasleigh.
- Historic Outback Towns: Visit Dimbulah, Almaden, Mount Surprise and other fascinating railway communities.
- Authentic Country Hospitality: Enjoy welcoming accommodation, country meals and memorable experiences along the way.
A Savannahlander Train Tour is more than just a railway journey. It’s an opportunity to experience the fascinating history of Queensland’s remote communities, discover extraordinary natural attractions and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of outback travel. From ancient limestone caves to historic railway stations, every day brings something new to explore.
Your four-day itinerary
Day 1 – Wednesday: Cairns to Chillagoe
Depart Cairns at approximately 7:45 am by chartered coach for the journey to Mareeba, where you board the Savannahlander.
Travel through the historic railway country of the Atherton Tablelands and enjoy lunch at the Crew House Café in Dimbulah.
Continue towards Chillagoe, a fascinating former mining town famous for its spectacular limestone caves.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Chillagoe Caves and township before settling into your accommodation at Chillagoe Eco Lodge.
Overnight: Chillagoe Eco Lodge – dinner included.
Day 2 – Thursday: Chillagoe, Mount Surprise, Einasleigh and Cobbold Gorge
After breakfast, continue your Savannahlander journey through the Gulf Savannah, with a memorable lineside morning tea stop.
Enjoy lunch at Mount Surprise before continuing by rail to Einasleigh.
From Einasleigh, transfer by road to Cobbold Gorge, one of Queensland’s most remarkable natural attractions.
Experience the beauty of this narrow sandstone gorge aboard a specially designed electric boat, surrounded by towering rock walls and stunning outback scenery.
Overnight: Cobbold Gorge Village – dinner included.
Day 3 – Friday: Einasleigh, Copperfield Gorge and Undara Lava Tubes
Following breakfast, transfer to Wirra Wirra to rejoin the Savannahlander.
Enjoy lunch at the historic Einasleigh Hotel and take the opportunity to explore the spectacular Copperfield Gorge.
Continue by rail to Mount Surprise, where a road transfer takes you to the famous Undara Lava Tubes.
Join a guided walking tour to discover these extraordinary volcanic formations and learn how ancient lava flows shaped the landscape.
Return to Mount Surprise for your final overnight stay.
Overnight: Discovery Parks, Mount Surprise – dinner included.
Day 4 – Saturday: Mount Surprise to Cairns
Enjoy breakfast before boarding the Savannahlander for your return journey through the Gulf Savannah.
Stop for lunch at the historic Almaden Railway Hotel, a wonderful reminder of Queensland’s pioneering railway history.
Continue to Dimbulah, where afternoon tea may be purchased from the Dimbulah Historical Society.
Travel aboard the Savannahlander to Mareeba before transferring by chartered coach back to Cairns.
Your four-day outback railway adventure concludes in Cairns.
What’s included?
- Savannahlander heritage rail travel
- Three nights’ accommodation with ensuite facilities
- Three breakfasts, four lunches and three dinners
- Guided Chillagoe Caves and town tour
- Cobbold Gorge electric boat cruise
- Guided Undara Lava Tubes tour
- Required coach and road transfers
- Lineside morning tea with a souvenir Savannahlander cup
Important travel information
Railway operations: The railway between Kuranda and Mareeba is currently closed for bridge repairs. Coach transfers operate between Cairns and Mareeba. A road transfer also operates between Forsayth and Wirra Wirra due to track closures. Arrangements may change if railway works are completed.
Fitness and mobility: A reasonable level of mobility is required. The Chillagoe Caves tour involves approximately 385 steps, steep ramps and low overhangs. The Undara Lava Tubes experience includes stairs, ramps and uneven walking surfaces.
Luggage: Passengers should aim to bring one manageable piece of luggage of approximately 20 kg and a small carry-on bag. Travellers must be able to carry their own luggage.
Tour arrangements: Itineraries and transfers are subject to operational conditions, weather and supplier requirements.
Book your Savannahlander Train Tour
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Join us on our Savannahlander Train Tour and discover the beauty, history and hidden treasures of Far North Queensland. Places are limited, so enquire today and start planning your next outback railway adventure with Leyland’s Travel Australia.
Discover a different side of Queensland on this unforgettable four-day heritage rail adventure.
Enquire with Leyland’s Travel Australia about 2027 departure dates, accommodation options and availability.
We look forward to helping you experience this wonderful part of Australia!
Discover more of Australia’s extraordinary destinations with Leyland’s Travel Australia. Explore our personally hosted small-group adventures and find your next unforgettable journey.
Table of Contents
Savannahlander Train Tour FAQs
What level of physical fitness is required for the outback cave and tube walks when joining the Savannahlander Train tour?
The guided tracks on this itinerary are classified as low-to-moderate difficulty. The Undara lava tube tours utilize well-maintained timber boardwalks and stairs, while the Chillagoe cave walks require navigating uneven gravel terrain and stairs inside the caverns. The walks do not require an elite level of athletic agility, making them safe and highly enjoyable for travellers of average mobile fitness.
What type of luggage should I pack for this 4-day Savannahland Train tour?
Due to the heritage design and compact storage footprints inside the vintage 1960s rail cars, heavy hard-case suitcases are highly discouraged. We strictly recommend that each passenger pack one small, lightweight, soft-sided duffel bag or backpack (maximum 15 kg) to ensure a comfortable and seamless transit experience.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- • All in-tour transfers as required.
- • 3 dinners and 3 breakfasts.
- • 4 lunches
- • Line-side morning tea stop with Savannahlander branded cup to keep.
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