Shruti Malhotra
The Daintree Rainforest in Australia is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, dating back approximately 10 million years. The trees here have been growing for the last 180 million years, with an emerald canopy and creeping vines.
As such, the moment you step into the rainforest, you find the ancient energy with every step you take. Right from spotting crocodiles to finding fish, there are so many things you can do here that will give some solace to tired souls.
For the same reason, Sir David Attenborough has rightly called the Daintree Rainforest, Australia, “the most extraordinary place on Earth”.
When should you visit the rainforest?
The forest receives a lot of rain and sometimes the precipitation can be 6m or 19 feet per year. The wet season is from December through April. During this time although there will be a lot of humidity and rainfall, you will be able to see the waterfalls and greenery galore in the rainforests.
May through September is the dry season when long hikes are ideal around the national park. The high season is late autumn to early spring and the low season extends from summer and early spring that is from December through April.
How will you reach the rainforest?
The Daintree National Park is divided into two parts, which harbors the Daintree Rainforest in Australia. It includes the coastal Cape Tribulation section and the other one is the Mossman Gorge which is approximately 22 kilometers.
It is located at a distance of 14 miles from Port Douglas, and 48 miles from Cairns. It is furthermore the Cape Tribulation part being at a distance of 49 kilometers or 25 miles towards the north.
You can avail of the following modes of transport to reach the rainforest or the national park.
- Cairns Airport is at a distance of 65 kilometers or 40 miles from the Mossman Gorge. Both international and domestic flights operate from here.
- Port Douglas and Cairns is also the place from where groups leave for the Daintree Rainforest.
- You can also avail of rent-a-car services from the airport, from Port Douglas or Cairns City.
- If you intend to visit the Cape Tribulation section of the Rainforest, you can travel by car, or Daintree Rivers has many ferries operating on it.
Recreational activities at Daintree Rainforest, Australia
Once you reach the place, you can plan a few trips locally and visit the following places of interest. Alternatively, you can also book these trips before you embark on the journey.
What are the options to explore?
The places of interest given below are mainly the primary areas of tourist attraction-
Road trip
As you embark on the road trip, you can enjoy the white sand beaches, the epic reef, and the dense rainforest. The northern part of Queensland is a paradise for road trip lovers. Right from Cairns, drive around Tropical North Queensland up to Cooktown.
Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. As you drive around, delve into ancient history related to the area. Fruit plantations, ancient rainforests, isolated highways, and gold mining towns are present as you drive along Townsville.
Mossman Gorge
The gorge has pristine clear water and is hidden within the rainforest. It is a spectacular sight when the water trickles down on the smooth boulders. Close to it is the Mossman Gorge Centre. There is an art gallery nearby that you can explore on foot.
Crocodile cruise
The Daintree rainforest is a haven for prehistoric predators. A crocodile cruise will allow you to take a closer look at these giant reptiles. They can grow up to a length of 5 meters or 16 feet long. Snakes, frogs, and birds are also common sight.
Supermarkets in the rainforest
The rainforest has been a supermarket for the Kuku Yalanji folks for more than thousands of years. Explore the place to learn more about ancient knowledge as you get a closer look at the bush tucker and mud crabs.
Daintree Discovery Centre
To start with an exploration of Daintree, you must visit the Daintree Discovery Centre. The two main attractions at the Daintree Rainforest, Australia include the interpretive displays of wildlife and the aerial walkway that helps you to see the canopy from the top.
Cultural Walks
The tour guides here have extensive knowledge about the aborigines and the rainforest and local places here. Get to know more about the place from a local from the perspective of a Kuku Yalanji. It will transform you to the ancient world of the yesteryears as you hear the narration from the local guides.
Accommodation at a luxury lodge
Many luxury lodges dot the place. Treehouses are common as well. There is nature all around you where you can completely immerse yourself. Onsite spas help you to unwind and relax. The restaurants outdoors allow you to enjoy greenery and unwind amidst nature.
Spy under the canopy
Drift float do whatever enchants you! Take a raft and the river beckons for a leisure rafting session under the green canopy. Snorkeling is common too and find out what is waiting for you beneath the surface of water. Try to spend the afternoon here and make it a memorable day to cherish forever.
Enjoy art at Janbal Gallery
The gallery has more to offer than just artwork. You are bound to appreciate the aboriginal art collection here. Indulge in the storytelling experience and the hands-on painting sessions where you can participate as well. Buy a souvenir that will remind you of the Aborigines and how they spent their lives during the yesteryears.
Rainforest at Night
There are many nocturnal creatures you can spot when the sun goes down. Bandicoots, owls, snakes, and insects, the nocturnal creatures will keep you engaged throughout the night as you watch them and their activities. The Daintree rainforest, Australia is mesmerizing and offers a fascinating picturesque appeal by night.
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