What should you wear to the Daintree rainforest?

Immerse yourself in the thick air and lush greenery of the Daintree Rainforest.

Being one of the most famous rainforests on earth, the region brings over 400,000 visitors of travellers annually. It is one of the country’s top World Heritage Listed sites and is home to the largest biologically diverse region in all of Australia.

But before setting off and marching into the unknown at Queensland’s rainforest, first, you must work out the tips and tricks while learning the risks.

Risks

This lush habitat may be outstandingly beautiful but hidden within are a few things to watch out for. With poisonous plants that leave large welts or burning rashes on your skin, or animals that deliver ferocious bites that can leave you writhing in pain, unconscious, or in some cause’s dead. These can range from the largest reptiles in the world, the saltwater crocodiles, to the smallest, ticks. Working out how to avoid these pests is all depending on what you bring for your journey.

Your suitcase

• Shoes

  Walking is an essential task within the Daintree, with the majority of the paths snaking out around the region merely for walking. These paths range from wooden boards to a rough dirt with branches and bushes crowding the path. So, having the proper shoes is vital if you want to skip out on the blisters and frustrating obstacles. This means either hiking shoes or runners for the journey, with thick soles that won’t be weathered easily.

• Clothes

  The Daintree Rainforest is a tropical wonderland packed full of ancient trees, thick bushes, and newly sprouting leaves. This is all due to its climate, with its never-ending rain and hot humidity coating the region. For this reason, wearing lighter fabric helps in your favour, as you are more than likely going to sweat through everything you try. However, instead of wearing very light and slim outfits, long pants and shirts are best. This is due firstly to the blazing sun which suns down on you and can easily give you a nasty sunburn if you aren’t careful. As well, covering your skin gives you a greater guard from the many harmful inhabitants roaming about. With poisonous plants that cause pain with even the slightest brush, to ticks and leaches that latch onto any exposed skin.

• Lotions and Sprays

  Give yourself an extra edge against the buys and sunrays with your trusty repellent and sunscreen. Make sure to grab the tropical climate repellent as this can help with leeches and other bloodsuckers while you are at it. As you need to top up every hour or so make sure to pack it in your day bag.

• Food and Drinks

  Drinking water is essential when trekking through the rainforest, with the area roasting you up until you are parched with thirst. As well, bringing along some small snacks can help you refuel throughout the walk, giving you a boost when you start lagging.

Related article: Is the Daintree rainforest dangerous?

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.