Day 3200 - A Day in the Daintree National Forest

5 things to do when you've got a day in the Daintree

The Daintree National Forest is a World Heritage listed site as part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area confirmed by the World Heritage Convention.  It is believed to be the world's oldest rainforest at 180 million years of age and is touted as one of the most fascinating and diverse eco-systems on Earth.

When I planned our trip to Port Douglas I knew that a visit to the Daintree was essential.  Given we only had a day to spare I had to plan as much as possible into just a few hours.  Our focus was on Cape Tribulation.

To get to Cape Tribulation from Port Douglas you head north on Mossman Daintree Road and turn right onto Cape Tribulation Road.  While the entry to Daintree National Park is only around 50km away, you need to allow at least 1.5 hours as the roads are small, windy and you'll be crossing the Daintree River via the Daintree ferry.  The ferry costs around $28 return.

1. Daintree Discovery Centre

A self-guided tour care of the Daintree Discovery Centre is a must.  Walk the aerial walkway, climb the canopy tower, check out the cassowary circuit, the bush tucker trail and step back in time to the Jurassic period via the dinosaur tour.  Self managed audio devices mean you can take the rainforest at your own pace.  You'll also have access to the interpretive centre, reptile displays, native fish aquarium, indigenous culture and a coffee shop.

For visitor information including tours and costs, click here.


2. Stop to take in the view

As you drive the winding roads, climb the mountain and hit the shoreline, be sure to stop and take in the views.  From rivers to forest to ocean - the Daintree has it all.

Make sure to be Crocwise! Just because you can't see a croc, it does not mean there isn't one near you.  You are responsible for your own safety in crocodile country so note the warning signs and be careful near ALL north Queensland waterways. Stand well back from the water's edge. The above river photos were taken from a bridge in the safety of my car. 

3. Cape Tribulation Beach Lookout - The Coral Sea

The little village of Cape Tribulation has access to all your adventure tours including trips to the Barrier Reef, safaris, rainforest tours, fruit tasting, river cruises, beaches and lookouts.  You can grab a bite to eat and replenish your water supplies.  Cape Tribulation is one of the closest land points to the Great Barrier Reef, with the reef visible on the horizon from some vantage points.  Heading to the beach for views of the Coral Sea is a must.

Note: This is not a beach for swimming in.  If the crocs don't get you, the stingers will.  While you can buy stinger suits to protect you from the jelly fish and Crocs are most likely found at river mouths, I would suggest saving your swimming for the safety of your hotel pool.

4. Adventure Jungle Surfing

Fly through the trees on a zipline for a truly unique view of the Daintree.  Nestled in a private rainforest reserve, the Adventure Jungle Surfing tour was the first thing I booked when I knew we were headed for Port Douglas.  It consists of five eco-friendly platforms and six flying fox platforms ranging from 7 to 16 metres above the ground. Go fast or slow, right-side-up or upside-down, it's totally up to you.

The tour guides not only make you feel safe, but they educate you on the Daintree, Cape Trib and the local surrounds, with great tips and tricks on how to get the best out of your Daintree Forest experience.

From ages 3 to 103, anyone can fly with Adventure Jungle Surfing.  For every person who rides the zipline a tree is planted in the forest to ensure continued growth.

For more information including costs click here. 

5.  Eat at Lync-Haven Rainforest Retreat

Take some time out to eat and have a cuppa at this great little tourist spot.  Their resident pythons, bird life, friendly orb spiders (as big as your face) and a few roos will keep you entertained while you refuel your body.

Located between the Daintree Discovery Centre and Adventure Jungle Surfing it's the perfect spot to stop, revive and survive.

And that was our day in the Daintree!

If you're in the area, be sure to stop into the Daintree National Forest.  It truly is a magical part of the world.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, long shorts, bug spray, a hat and sunscreen.  Leave early to fit in as much as possible.  The ferry is open from 6am to midnight and it's best to avoid peak hour times of 11am to 12.30pm.


Have you been to the Daintree?

What other forests around the world can you recommend?

Any extra tips on how to be Croc Wise? 

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