Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest, known as the evolutionary cradle for much of Australia’s plant and wildlife, begins at the Mossman Gorge, just north of Port Douglas. The walking trails, flowing gorge, and swimming holes of this southernmost section are situated around a deep valley; home to abundant bird and wildlife and a regular haunt for both locals and tourists wanting to cool off in the pristine waters.    

The vast area of the Daintree stretches as far north as Cooktown via the famous Bloomfield track; only suitable for 4WD vehicles. Explore on your own, or with an expertly-guided Daintree Rainforest day trip or extended trip to learn as much as you can about the biological importance and evolutionary history of the area. Cruise for crocodiles on Cooper Creek, wander on foot under the rainforest’s lush canopy, swim in sparkling springs amidst turtles and Ulysses butterflies, or stand on Cape Tribulation Beach – where the rainforest meets the reef.

Or you may choose to wake up to the untamed sounds of the rainforest and stay in an award-winning rainforest retreat, a bed and breakfast, a holiday home, or camp at one of the absolute beachfront or rainforest sites.   

Older than the Amazon, the Daintree is home to ancient flora and fauna, including the iconic bird, the Southern Cassowary. A large, flightless species, this animal must be treated with caution. If you are fortunate enough to see one, do not feed it – as this can make it aggressive towards other people. 

Top things to do:

• Go croc spotting on a Daintree River cruise.
• Jungle surf through the rainforest canopy of the Daintree Rainforest on a zip line. Be sure to read our blog about jungle surfing and learn some fascinating facts about the Daintree Rainforest. 
• Swim in the refreshing gorge waters of Mossman Gorge or take a Dreamtime walk along private tracks and visit the cultural centre, filled with Indigenous artworks.
• Go walkabout with Indigenous guides and learn the ways of a 40,000-year-old culture. 
• Take an adventure-filled guided 4WD tour through the rainforest and along the renowned Bloomfield Track.
• Take a unique bird life tour at Daintree Village, and don’t forget to try the famous Croc Burger.
• Get a refreshing taste of the tropics at the Daintree Ice Cream Company. All ice cream flavours are made with fruits grown on the property. It’ll be hard to pick your favourite!