Can you go to Daintree Rainforest on your own?

The Daintree Rainforest is truly one of Australia’s untouched gems: a sprawling ancient rainforest with enough biodiversity to make Sir David Attenborough pumped for a visit.

It’s one of those places that a nature lover dreams about venturing to, and they absolutely never leave disappointed!

But people often ask us whether they should head out to the Daintree solo or with a tour. While you can absolutely traverse certain parts of the rainforest yourself, a tour takes you to all the very best spots in this stunning natural wonderland that you might have otherwise missed.

So what are some of the highlights of touring the Daintree? And what makes it such an incredible place to tour?

• See crocs on a River Cruise

  The Daintree Rainforest is renowned for playing host to one of the world’s most diverse biospheres, with the most formidable beast hanging out there is the saltwater crocodile. Don’t worry – the Daintree is croc patrolled, but you can still catch a seriously close glimpse of these prehistoric predators from the safety of a River Cruise.

  Fully guided by a local biologist, the cruise gives you the opportunity to not only see the lord of the Daintree in its element, but also that of other reptiles, pythons, birds and vibrant butterflies.

• Learn about the gorgeous flora & fauna

  One of the best things about touring the Daintree is the awesome knowledge you take about the local wildlife. The rainforest is over 180 million years old, and over that period has created a home for countless plant and animal species. Back on land, an experienced guide will teach about this incredible biosphere, as well as get you up and close with the tempestuous cassowary (but not too close – they can get rowdy!).

• Explore Cape Tribulation

  Cape Tribulation is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with turquoise waters leading onto the lush, mountainous jungle behind. No trip to the Daintree is complete without exploring this quintessential Aussie beach, and it’s the perfect place to take a refreshing dip after a morning’s rainforest exploring.

• Learn about local Indigenous history in the Mossman Gorge

  The Mossman Gorge is one of the Daintree’s most serene spots to visit, with crystal wears flowing through ancient granite boulders to create the most mystical scene. Here, you can learn about the land’s significance to the Kuku Yalanji people.

The Daintree can be done alone, but with so much to see and learn it is best to tag along with a guide and experience this unique jungle for all the wonder it has to offer.

Related article: How was the Daintree Rainforest created?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.