Tips on Avoiding Katoomba Tourist Traps

Katoomba Tourist Traps

Katoomba in New South Wales is a safe and friendly destination for the entire family. However, there are a few tourist traps you may encounter. Here are a few tips on how to avoid these.

Ask About Prices at Scenic World Discovery

The Scenic Railway is where most of the tourist traps are sprung. The railway takes you along tracks that offer exceptional views of the region and also comes with a tour guide who speaks over the PA system of the train. However, prices are not always indicated, so before you purchase anything, make sure to ask about prices.

When you arrive, you’ll need to stand in line for a ticket. Problem is you can’t just purchase a single ticket for the train. You have to purchase a $22 Discovery Pass. This gives you full access to the rest of the Discovery Center, but if you didn’t want to spend the rest of the day inside you’ll end up spending a lot for just a train ride.

Take the Skyway

The Discovery Pass is expensive. However, if you have the time you can walk the Skyway by foot, then take a train back, which will cost about $8. The walk can take a few hours to complete and may be a bit steep for young children. If everyone is up for it though it is a great way to see the views and save money at the same time.

Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains in Katoomba offer picturesque views from nearly every angle. The mountains also almost always give off a blue hue, even during the middle of the day. However, this is a major tourist draw and lines become longer during the middle of the day. If you want to walk around and avoid the crowds, show up early. Midday, usually around lunchtime or earlier during the weekends, is the busiest time, so plan accordingly.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about ways to avoid tourist traps in Katoomba, New South Wales.