Daintree Rainforest Tours

It is what is left of the Gondwanan forest that once covered the continent. As Australia drifted north and dried out, the rainforest retreated to the wet tropical strip between the Great Dividing Range and the coast, where reliable rainfall let it survive unbroken. That continuity is why the plant lineages here are so old.

Mossman Gorge is a fast-flowing freshwater river above the estuary and is not considered crocodile habitat, which is why swimming is permitted there. Estuarine crocodiles live downstream in the Daintree River, where our river cruise runs. Always follow the signage and swim only where it says you can.

In designated freshwater spots, yes, including Mossman Gorge. Not in the Daintree River, and not at the beaches at Cape Tribulation, where both crocodiles and marine stingers are a genuine risk. Your guide will tell you exactly where it is safe on the day.

May to October is the dry season: lower humidity, mild temperatures and easier road access. November to April is wet, when the forest is at its most alive, waterfalls run hard and afternoon downpours are routine. Tours run year round, but wet season roads can close at short notice.

If you want a rainforest that reaches the beach and holds plant families that predate flowering plants, yes. It is a two hour drive from Cairns each way, so a day trip is a long day. People who want more than a look book the overnight (starts from $204) or the two day tour (starts from $329).

Possibly, and Cape Tribulation is one of the better places for it. They are large, shy and endangered, and sightings are luck rather than schedule. If you do see one, keep your distance and do not feed it; cassowaries fed by people become dangerous and are usually the ones that end up killed on the road.

Insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, closed walking shoes and a rain jacket in any month. Swimmers if the itinerary includes Mossman Gorge. Leave the good shoes at home; the tracks are wet clay in places.

Cape Tribulation is roughly 140 kilometres north of Cairns, about two and a half hours by road including the Daintree River ferry crossing. Mossman Gorge is closer, about an hour and a half. Our day tours cover both and return the same evening.