Travel update: ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred latest travel information for South East QLD and Northern NSW
Guide to the Daintree Rainforest
A forest so spectacular, Sir David Attenborough called it “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”
The creeping vines and emerald canopy of the Daintree Rainforest have been growing for more than 180 million years. That’s right – it’s the world’s oldest tropical rainforest by an impressive 10 million years, so it’s no wonder that visitors can feel the ancient energy with every step. Just as special as the forest itself are the experiences you’ll find within it, from crocodile spotting to spear fishing. Indulge in the healing properties at a luxury spa, float gently down the river on a raft and soak up generations-old knowledge from the area’s traditional custodians, the Kuku Yalanji.
Embark on an epic road trip
Boasting white sand beaches, dense rainforest and epic reef, the north of Queensland is a road tripper’s paradise. Hop behind the wheel to find adventurous experiences and relaxing hideaways in equal measure. Here’s your tropical itinerary.
Marvel at Mossman Gorge
Mossman Gorge, nestled within the rainforest, is simply spellbinding. Crystal clear water trickles over smooth boulders in the gorge, and the nearby Mossman Gorge Centre offers Indigenous walks, an art gallery and advice for exploring on your own.
Take a crocodile cruise
The Daintree is home to one big prehistoric predator: the saltwater croc. On a crocodile cruise, you can get an up-close view of these giants, which can grow up to five metres (16 feet). As you float along, you may also see birds, snakes and frogs.
Hunt for your supper
The Kuku Yalanji people have used the rainforest as their supermarket for tens of thousands of years. On a tour with Adventure North Australia, you can share in the ancient knowledge as you attempt to spear mud crabs and gather bush tucker.
Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre
The Daintree Discovery Centre is the perfect place to begin your Daintree exploration. Get to know the wildlife through interpretive displays, see the canopy from an aerial walkway and find all the advice you need to plan your day.
Walk with an Aboriginal custodian
The guides at Walkabout Cultural Adventures hold an abundance of knowledge about the rainforest. On an all-day tour, you’ll learn about this special environment from a Kuku Yalanji perspective, opening your eyes to an ancient way of seeing the world.
Stay in a luxury lodge
Extend your Daintree stay at a luxury lodge. Silky Oaks Lodge features treehouses that allow you to be fully immersed in the nature around you. Dine at the outdoor restaurant, unwind in the onsite spa and find a pocket of forest all your own.
Float under the canopy
Few experiences are more fun than floating down the river on a raft. A Back Country Bliss tour combines the leisure of drifting beneath the green canopy and the excitement of spying below the surface with a snorkel. It’s an unforgettable afternoon.
Browse the art at Janbal Gallery
Janbal Gallery is more than an art collection. It’s an authentic experience of Aboriginal art, which you can discover through hands-on painting and storytelling experiences. Then, browse the gallery to bring home a beautiful creation for yourself.
Have an Indigenous spa experience
The Daintree Rainforest is full of native ingredients harbouring healing properties. At the Daintree Ecolodge, treatments are inspired by the forest and its ancient culture; book into a massage, native salt exfoliation, nourishing mud wrap and more.
Discover the rainforest at night
The Daintree is stunning by day and truly fascinating by night. Venture out on foot with FNQ Nature Tours to watch the forest change as the sun goes down. You’ll have the chance to spot nocturnal creatures like snakes, insects, bandicoots and owls.
Go on a hike
With well-maintained tracks and more adventurous trails, the Daintree has hikes for all ages and fitness levels. Epic scenery is guaranteed, from towering trees and twisting vines to waterfalls and rippling creeks. Here are some of the best walks.