Exploring Plantlife and the Past at Marrdja Boardwalk

The Daintree Rainforest boasts an ancient collection of trees and beautiful vegetation. There are several trails that weave their way through the undergrowth.

One of the most beautiful trails is the Marrdja Boardwalk. The name Marrdja comes from the Kuku Yalanji people and means rainforest walk. The boardwalk loops around Oliver Creek alongside a sparkling mountain stream.

Along the route, there are various signs that educate visitors on the evolution of the Daintree Coast and its resident plants. Take a lesson on the two vastly different habitats of this area. Look out for the lush rainforest, compare it to the nearby maze like mangroves. Where Oliver Creek joins together with Noah Creek, there is a distinct transition between lush rainforest and mangrove forest that is well worth exploring.

In addition to signs about the evolution of the rainforest, you can walk your way through a 350-million-year journey. Start by learning about the very first land plants and then move on through the era of the dinosaurs. Move to the emergence of pretty flowering plants before discovering more about how the super continent of Gondwana broke up to form several smaller continents. Finally, the tour takes you through the age of humans and the impact they have had on the vegetation and landscape.

Important Information About the Marrdja Boardwalk

The length of the boardwalk spans one kilometre and starts from Oliver Creek on Cape Tribulation Road in the Daintree National Park. It takes about 45 minutes to explore, including all the signs and educational material along the way.

To get to it, you want to park in the car park on Cape Tribulation Road. From there, you can find the entrance to the boardwalk on the south bank of Oliver Creek.

Exploring the Marrdja Boardwalk gives you the chance to discover the Daintree Rainforest while learning more about its origins. You’ll wander amongst the country’s oldest vegetation and marvel at the incredible scenery that this area is known for. Dig deep into the millennia-old history that imbues the region and its surroundings. If you’re in the Daintree area, the Marrdja Boardwalk is a must-visit. The walk is even more impressive for natural history and plant buffs!

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.