One of Australia’s most precious natural wonders, the Daintree Rainforest, at 180 million years old, is the oldest continuously living rainforest in the world. Located in Tropical North Queensland, the Daintree is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland.
For the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, the Traditional Owners of this area, many natural features of the landscape have spiritual significance, including Wundu (Thornton Peak), Manjal Dimbi (Mount Demi), Wurrmbu (The Bluff) and Kulki (Cape Tribulation). The Kuku Yalanji Country extends from near Cooktown to Port Douglas. Find out how to experience this incredibly special part of Australia for yourself below.
Getting to the Daintree
Getting to the Daintree Rainforest is an adventure in itself, with a scenic drive from Cairns or Port Douglas offering breathtaking coastal views along the Captain Cook Highway. The journey takes around two hours from Cairns and just over an hour from Port Douglas, leading to the Daintree River, where a ferry crossing provides the only access to this ancient rainforest. Whether you’re hiring a car or joining a guided tour, the trip is well worth it to experience one of Australia’s most biodiverse regions.
Best things to do in the Daintree
It’s no secret that getting to see the Daintree’s biggest resident – the saltwater crocodile – is a huge drawcard, but instead of venturing out to find a croc in the wild, luckily, there are some great river cruises that take you up close and personal with a saltie.
If you’ve decided to base yourself in Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, you’re perfectly situated to mix up your itinerary. You can head out on the reef, immerse yourself in traditional Kuku Yalanji cultural experiences, hike up Mt Sorrow, and so many other incredible experiences.
For those who are planning to stay around the quaint Daintree Village, there are some dreamy walks where you’ll get lost in the prettiest parts of the rainforest, lots of swimming holes (but be croc aware!) and more that will fill your days with unforgettable memories.
Where to stay in the Daintree
Immersing yourself in the Daintree Rainforest means choosing from a range of unique accommodation options, from eco-lodges to secluded retreats. Silky Oaks Lodge offers a luxurious stay among the treetops, blending comfort with nature. For those looking for a more off-the-grid experience, Cape Tribulation has a selection of rainforest lodges, beachside bungalows and backpacker-friendly stays. If camping under the stars is more your style, Cape Tribulation’s camping sites let you truly connect with the wild surroundings.
