16 Best Things To Do In The Daintree Rainforest, Queensland

Here are the top things to do in the Daintree Rainforest, a captivating destination nestled in Far North Queensland, Australia.

As one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, the Daintree offers a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural experiences that will leave you in awe.

From immersive walks through lush greenery to encounters with unique wildlife, this pristine wilderness is packed with natural beauty.

Yet the Daintree Rainforest is a surprisingly underrated destination in Australia! Many don’t even know that the Daintree exists, let alone that it’s the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth (it’s thought to be 180 million years old).

The Daintree is also part of the Wet Tropics Region of Queensland, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can easily visit the Daintree Rainforest on a day trip or overnight trip from Cairns, Palm Cove, or Port Douglas. Book a guided tour or rent a car and explore on your own. Either way, the Daintree Rainforest should be on any Tropical North Queensland itinerary.

So, let’s embark on a journey through this ancient forest and discover the myriad of things to do in this natural wonderland.

The Daintree Rainforest in Tropical North Queensland is about 3 hours north of Cairns and 1 hour north of Port Douglas. It’s easily reachable by driving or taking a bus north along the Captain Cook Highway.

Some attractions, like Mossman Gorge, lie in the Southern Daintree Rainforest. For places like Cape Tribulation in the northern section, you’ll need to cross the Daintree River on the Daintree Ferry.

But it’s a relatively straightforward journey, and there are several guided tours available for those who don’t want to drive or navigate themselves.

Once you arrive, here are some of the top things to do in the Daintree Rainforest of Queensland.

From learning about native bush tucker at an Aboriginal experience, to spotting crocs on the Daintree River, to cruising along the Great Barrier Reef drive north from Port Douglas, there is much to see and do in this stunning World Heritage Area!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region is by walking or hiking.

Daintree National Park has lots of amazing walking and hiking trails that traverse the lush environment.

Some easy walks suitable for families and kids include the Madja Boardwalk and the Dibuji Boardwalk.

Both of these trails are flat and widely accessible. They wind through the dense forests and mangroves, with plenty of signs along the way so you can learn about the flora and fauna.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, consider the Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail. More suitable for active travellers and experienced hikers, climbing Mount Sorrow is an epic, full-day adventure that ends with amazing views of the Daintree region.

Kuku Yalanji country extends from Cooktown down to Port Douglas and encompasses most of the Daintree forest areas.

These Indigenous people have thrived in Far North Queensland for thousands of years. If you want to learn more about the cultural connection between the Kuku Yalanji and their unique environment, you can enhance your rainforest experience with a guided tour.

Exploring the Daintree with a knowledgeable Indigenous guide allows you to learn about the fascinating history and culture of the area.

You can join a traditional smoking ceremony, see the many plants and bush tucker items that nourish the locals, and hear Dreamtime stories that have been passed down through generations.

To explore the Daintree with the Kuku Yalanji people, book an experience with Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours or Walkabout Cultural Adventures.

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Visiting Mossman Gorge is another one of the best things to do in Daintree Rainforest, Australia.

Here you can find crystal-clear water that cascades over granite boulders, surrounded by the stunning Wet Tropics Rainforest.

Take a refreshing swim in the pristine waterholes or go on self-guided walks through the rainforest. You can also join a guided walk with the Kuku Yalanji people to learn about the cultural significance of this special place.

Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre also has an art gallery, cafe, and souvenir shop.

As Mossman Gorge lies in the Southern Daintree Rainforest, it’s a very easy place to visit on a day trip from Cairns or Port Douglas.

Escape the tropical heat by taking a dip in the refreshing freshwater streams and swimming holes scattered throughout the rainforest.

Between November and May each year, the ocean around Far North Queensland is home to jellyfish that may be potentially harmful to humans. This is called the annual Stinger Season, and it’s recommended to avoid the ocean at this time.

So when you need somewhere nice to swim in the Daintree, the freshwater swimming holes are the place to be!

Emmagen Creek is a popular spot for a cool and invigorating swim that is located just north of Cape Tribulation.

You can also find a lovely swimming hole behind Mason’s Cafe, also in Cape Tribulation.

Tropical North Queensland is famous for its population of saltwater crocodiles, and the Daintree River is one of the best places to see them!

Crocodiles are slightly terrifying, but not when you’re viewing them from the safety of a reputable tour boat.

Boat tours on the Daintree River are an incredible way to kick off your adventures in the ancient rainforest.

Join a local tour operator for a relaxing float down the waterways, where you can spot rainforest birds and other wildlife.

If you’re lucky, you may also see the mighty saltwater crocodile resting on riverbanks or swimming through the river. When you see these creatures from the comfort of a tour boat, they are truly majestic and not that scary!

Daintree Ice Cream Company is another top local attraction included in many tours and rainforest trips.

Here you can sample freshly made ice cream using tropical fruits from the local orchard.

After an action-packed day of walking and exploring this beautiful corner of Australia, there is no better way to refuel than with a homemade fruit ice cream or sorbet!

It is conveniently located on Cape Tribulation Road, so you can easily stop here on your self-guided tour of the area. Many guided day trips from Cairns or Port Douglas also include a stop here at the end of the day!

Though the Daintree Rainforest is a very remote and wild area, it does have a few amenities scattered throughout.

Cape Tribulation is a main hub of the forest, though it’s still very small with just one main road.

However, this is the perfect place to stay overnight if you want to extend your Daintree Rainforest trip to a few days or longer.

Cape Tribulation is known as the unique location where the ancient rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Cape Tribulation Beach is basically right on the border of these two World Heritage sites!

Here you can enjoy stunning coastal views and explore the reef through snorkeling or diving adventures.

When it’s time to hit the hay, you can go camping nearby or book a stay at one of the top Cape Tribulation accommodations.

With its incredible biodiversity, the Daintree Rainforest is a paradise for birdwatchers.

Here you have the chance to spot some of Australia’s rarest and most spectacular bird species in one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests. Daintree Village in particular is a popular birdwatching spot.

With its lush canopy, mangroves, and river systems, the Daintree is home to over 430 bird species, including kingfishers, parrots, owls, and more.

You can also see cassowaries in the Daintree! A cassowary is a magnificent Australian bird that is as large as an ostrich or emu. It has a furry black body and a large, colourful head topped with a horn.

Cassowaries are wild-looking, and the Daintree is one of the few places where you can spot them in the wild.

So grab your binoculars and keep an eye out for colourful birds of the forest! Just remember to always keep your distance from wildlife.

The Daintree Discovery Centre is a world-class interpretive facility that has amenities for visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect place to begin your rainforest trip!

With elevated boardwalks, a 23-metre-high canopy tower, and interactive displays, Daintree Discovery Centre provides a unique perspective on the rainforest’s complex ecosystem, from the forest floor to the treetops.

Explore the ancient flora and fauna with the help of audio guides, touchscreen kiosks, and informative signs.

The centre is also eco-certified and designed to have minimal environmental impact. It’s a great starting point for understanding the significance and conservation of this World Heritage-listed rainforest.

Explore more of Tropical North Queensland with these day trips from Cairns.

Anyone with an interest in art and culture should consider visiting the Janbal Art Gallery!

Acclaimed Aboriginal artist, Brian ‘Binna’ Swindley, owns and runs the gallery. It’s a fascinating place to come and engage with the local community, or test out your art skills.

You can book hands-on, interactive art workshops led by Binna. As you hear about the Kuku Yalanji cultures and customs, you’ll learn how to craft your own art pieces to take home with you.

Or if you’re short on time, you can also just visit the gallery to browse through the art and maybe purchase a souvenir or two.

To fully immerse yourself in the rainforest experience, consider staying at one of the eco-lodges or sustainable accommodations in the Daintree and Cape Tribulation area.

Sometimes having the perfect accommodation is half the fun of visiting the Daintree Rainforest.

You can wake up to the soothing sounds of nature, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings.

Safari Lodge is a great option in Cape Tribulation. It’s just a five-minute walk from Myall Beach and has modern amenities combined with lush gardens and forest views.

Noah Creek Eco Huts offer eco-friendly glamping huts with balconies that overlook the stunning Daintree and Cape Tribulation landscape.

If you want to splurge, Daintree Eco Lodge is a boutique accommodation with sleek, upscale villas.

Head to Treetops Adventure in Cape Tribulation for an exhilarating adventure through the Daintree Rainforest!

Ziplining is a thrilling way to sightsee in the forest, and this local company is the top option in the area.

With 9 ziplines that span from 15 to 130 metres long, guests can zoom through the forest canopies and enjoy awe-inspiring views.

Treetops Adventure is a reputable operator that has high-quality gear and ensures all guests feel safe and secure while ziplining.

You can combine ziplining with a Daintree River cruise and national park tour on this amazing guided tour from Port Douglas!

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Many people book their Great Barrier Reef snorkelling tours from Cairns City or Port Douglas.

But you can also venture out to the World Heritage listed reef from Cape Tribulation in the Daintree!

Embarking on a journey from the Daintree Rainforest to the Great Barrier Reef is a remarkable experience that allows you to explore two natural wonders in one unforgettable trip.

Ocean Safari departs from Cape Tribulation for half-day, small-group eco tours. Visit a pristine and uncrowded section of the Great Barrier Reef for some incredible snorkelling!

You can also book reef tours from Cairns or Port Douglas before or after you explore Daintree National Park. However, if you want to visit a less-touristy part of the reef while you’re up in the Daintree, Ocean Safari is the perfect option.

Cape Tribulation is where the rainforest meets the reef, so might as well take advantage of the unique location!

Foodies can’t miss this Daintree activity! Cape Trib Farm is a magnificent local orchard that grows a huge variety of tropical fruits.

Visitors can join farm tours and tropical fruit tastings led by the farmers.

Sample some exotic produce, stroll through the lush greenery of the orchard, and learn about the regenerative farming techniques used in the Daintree.

Fruits vary depending on the time of year and availability, but this is a fun way to experience the local flavours of the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth!

Another amazing activity to try in the Daintree Rainforest is horseback riding.

With its remote beaches and gorgeous coastal scenery, the Daintree Rainforest is the perfect place for a serene and beautiful horse ride.

Cape Trib Horse Rides offers guided tours through the Daintree Rainforest and onto the idyllic beaches. Admire the national park from a whole new perspective as you traverse the landscape on horseback!

This tour is a unique way to enjoy the Daintree, and no previous horseback riding experience is necessary. The guides will ensure you feel comfortable up on your horse.

Read next: Complete Guide To The Best Beaches In Cairns

If you’re an avid road-tripper or 4WD enthusiast, the Bloomfield Track is a great place to explore.

Travellers can drive through Cape Tribulation with a normal 2WD vehicle, but once you cross the Bloomfield River the track becomes suitable for 4WDs only.

The Bloomfield Track is a 37km long gravel road that is one of the top 4WD road trips in the Cairns area! It’s relatively short, but there are numerous creek crossings and places to get out and explore.

You’ll also be able to escape the crowds since the track only takes 4WD vehicles. Not that there are many crowds in the Daintree to begin with. But this is a fun place for an off-roading adventure.

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