Daintree Rainforest★★★
The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world — over 130 million years old, older than the Amazon. Here grow plants that existed when dinosaurs roamed. And at Cape Tribulation, this primeval forest meets the Great Barrier Reef directly — the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites lie side by side.
The Daintree is located 110 km north of Cairns (2-hour drive). From the Daintree River Ferry (car ferry, 28 AUD return per vehicle), a different world begins: dense rainforest, hardly any mobile reception, no supermarkets, and crocodiles in the river.
Highlights
- Daintree River Cruise: Boat trip on the Daintree River to see saltwater crocodiles in the wild — the sighting rate is over 95%. Solar Whisper (from 35 AUD, quiet electric boat) or Bruce Belcher Cruises (from 30 AUD). Best chances in the morning.
- Mossman Gorge: Crystal clear river through the rainforest, with hiking trails and swimming opportunities. The Mossman Gorge Centre offers Aboriginal-guided "Dreamtime Walks" (85 AUD, 1.5 hours) — one of the most authentic Aboriginal experiences in Australia.
- Cape Tribulation Beach: White sand, turquoise water, dense rainforest up to the beach — and absolutely deserted on weekdays. Swimming only with Stinger Suit (Nov–May) and beware of crocodiles at river mouths!
- Alexandra Range Lookout: Viewpoint with panoramic views over the rainforest to the reef. Free, right on the road.
💡 Tipp
Do the Daintree as a two-day trip from Cairns or Port Douglas — one day is hardly enough. Stay overnight in an eco-lodge in the rainforest (Daintree Eco Lodge from 250 AUD, Cape Trib Beach House Dorm from 45 AUD). At night, you can hear the rainforest come alive — frogs, geckos, and the mysterious call of the Wompoo Fruit-Dove.
Achtung
There are saltwater crocodiles in the Daintree — even on the beach! NEVER swim in rivers, river mouths, or mangroves. At the open ocean beach (Cape Trib), swimming is okay, but keep a distance from river mouths. Pay attention to signs!