Daintree Rainforest Day Trip from Port Douglas
The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest surviving tropical rainforest on Earth at approximately 180 million years old, predating the Amazon by 100 million years. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to an extraordinary concentration of wildlife found nowhere else on the planet. From Port Douglas, the Daintree River ferry crossing is just 45 minutes away - making it one of the most accessible ancient rainforest experiences in the world.
Mossman Gorge - Start Here
Mossman Gorge is just 20 minutes north of Port Douglas within Daintree National Park, making it the most accessible introduction to the ancient rainforest. Crystal-clear water flows over enormous boulders through ancient lowland rainforest. The gorge is genuinely spectacular and suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
The Kuku Yalanji Dreamtime Walk led by traditional owners is one of the finest indigenous cultural experiences in Queensland. The 90-minute guided walk covers the culture, history and traditional practices of the Kuku Yalanji people who have lived in this landscape for tens of thousands of years. Book in advance during peak season.
Cape Tribulation - Where Rainforest Meets Reef
Cape Tribulation is approximately 90 minutes north of Port Douglas and is where the ancient Daintree Rainforest grows right down to the Coral Sea shoreline. It is one of the most photographed and most extraordinary natural scenes in Australia.
To reach Cape Tribulation you cross the Daintree River on a vehicle ferry (approximately AUD $28 return for a car). Note: most standard hire car insurance policies do not cover vehicles north of the Daintree River. Check with your rental company before crossing, or join a guided tour where this is not an issue.
A guided Daintree day tour from Port Douglas typically costs AUD $95 to $175 per person and includes the river ferry, a river wildlife cruise and stops at key rainforest sites.
