What is special about the Daintree Rainforest?

There is so much about the Daintree Rainforest that makes it such a special location!

For one, it is the oldest rainforest in the entire world, even older than the Amazon. The Daintree is incredibly bio-diverse, with a large amount of Australia’s wildlife species being found in the rainforest. Another reason why the Daintree Rainforest is so special is because it has an unbelievably complex eco system, unlike any other rainforest In the world, making it a totally unique place.

The history of the Daintree

Daintree Rainforest, Queensland

The Daintree Rainforest is the largest rainforest in Australia. Taking up a space of around 1,200 square kilometres, located in far-north Queensland, between the towns of Port Douglas and Cooktown. The Daintree Rainforest is estimated to be 180 million years old, 10 million years older than the Amazon. The indigenous peoples native to the land are the Kuku Yalanji tribe, who lived off the land and shared a spiritual connection with the rainforest. They lived harmoniously in the Daintree Forest for thousands of years until European settlement in the late 1800’s. The settlers discovered the area and were instantly involved in clearing the rainforest in search of gold, metal, wood and minerals, this then resulted in many violent clashes with the Kuku Yalanji people, who obviously did not support the ruination of their beautiful home.

Diverse wildlife and plant life

Due to the complex eco-system of the Daintree Rainforest, there are so many species of plants and animals within it. There are over 920 species of trees alone found with in the Daintree, and over 130 species of reptiles that call the Daintree Rainforest home. The most fascinating animal that lives in the Daintree is the elusive Cassowary, with around only 4,000 of them left in the Australian wild. These magnificent creatures can reach up to 2 metres tall and weigh 60 kilograms. Spotting a Cassowary is often a highlight of anybody’s trip to the Daintree, as these mystical flightless birds are great at hiding.

Natural attractions

The landscape of the Daintree is comprised of mountains, rainforest, beaches, gorges, waterfalls, and rivers. Many of these stunning natural landmarks are accessible and absolutely worth checking out when you are in the Daintree Rainforest. Mossman Gorge is an immensely popular place to visit, as it is beautiful. The beach at Cape Tribulation has crystal clear waters and white sands as far as the eye can see, you can even ride a horse along the beach and soak up the gorgeous scenery. Finally, make sure you take the trek up Mt. Sorrow to admire the breath taking views that sweep under you.

Related article: What state is the Daintree rainforest in?

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.

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