10 of the most extraordinary things to do in the Daintree Rainforest

From enthralling cultural tours to thrill-seeking adventures, the best things to do in the Daintree Rainforest instantly captivate.

Flowing with leafy canopies, hidden (croc-free) swimming holes and an array of wildlife, the Daintree Rainforest is a wonderland for nature lovers. Just add creative dining experiences and all-too-convenient offshore expeditions to your to-do list and you’re left with one heck of a shake-up from your daily grind. Here, we round up the most memorable things to do in the Daintree Rainforest, a spectacular attraction and the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.

1. Immerse yourself in a Daintree Rainforest walk

Nothing quite compares to exploring the Daintree on foot. Walking its ancient terrain puts you in the belly of a multisensory beast where every plant’s smell, every animal’s call and feel every inch of its misty warmth is experienced.

DREAMTIME WALKS

a guided dreamtime walk at Mossman Gorge Centre — Go on a spiritual walk through the lush rainforest. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you’re near Mossman Gorge, a guided Dreamtime Walk from the team at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre is a must. The 1.5-hour journey follows private, gentle tracks, visiting special places and culturally significant sites including traditional Indigenous bark shelters. Stunning water streams are also abundant so charge your phone before heading out.

KULKI BOARDWALK

an aerial view of Kulki Beach — The rainforest meets Kulki Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Kulki Boardwalk takes you to Cape Tribulation Beach lookout for an iconic perspective of Cape Tribulation. Spy steep rainforest slopes cascading into sandy beaches and rocky headlands.

MADJA BOARDWALK

The Madja Boardwalk is an easy 45-minute Cape Tribulation stretch that takes in a concrete pathway to Oliver Creek where you can sit and try to spot a crocodile or few.

JINDALBA BOARDWALK

Jindalba, which translates to ‘foot of the mountain’ in traditional Kuku Yalanji language, is a 650-metre Cape Tribulation circuit walk that takes about 45 minutes to complete. While it underwent improvements throughout 2025, information signs providing facts about the Daintree’s diverse flora and fauna make this trail popular when it is open.

DUBUJI BOARDWALK

The Dubuji Boardwalk is a 650-metre return trip that wanders through the foothills of Mount Alexandra in Cape Tribulation. It’ll take you 45 minutes all up but give yourself extra time to spy a tree kangaroo as they call this area home.

2. Dip into the Daintree’s waterfalls and swimming holes

swimming in Emmagen Creek, Daintree — Cool off at the stunning swimming hole at Emmagen Creek. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Swimming and the Daintree rarely go together (hello, croc country), but there are some places that offer safe conditions, allowing you to cool off beyond the fencing of private swimming pools.

CASSOWARY FALLS

Cassowary Falls is located on a private property which offers some of the best accommodation in the Daintree, but you can access the falls themselves via one of the property’s tours . Choose from a 2.5-hour visit or go the full-day experience which includes a river cruise. Best of all, a highlight of both picks is the lounging-under-a-waterfall bit so brace yourself for all the selfies.

WUJAL WUJAL FALLS

two people visiting the Wujal Wujal (Bloomfield) Falls — A 4WD gives you access to the stunning Wujal Wujal (Bloomfield) Falls. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Wujal Wujal (Bloomfield) Falls is located on the Bloomfield Track, a wildly beautiful drive that can only be taken by 4WDs. The pristine spot is sacred to the Wujal Wujal community, and many of the waterfalls in the area are reserved for female members of the local community. The public can access this one though, as clearly stated on a nearby signpost. It’s crucial to keep an eye out for these signs out of respect for the local Kuku Yalanji people.

EMMAGEN CREEK

Emmagen Creek features a swimming hole about five kilometres north of Cape Tribulation surrounded by deep rainforest. The crystal-clear waterhole is lined with water-eroded rocks, creating an ideal place to connect with nature. Crocs do appear downstream of the creek crossing, so only swim in the swimming hole itself for safety reasons.

MASON’S SWIMMING HOLE

Mason’s Swimming Hole is roughly 20 minutes’ walk from Cape Tribulation along Myall Creek and features swings and clear water. An honesty box can also be found, inviting $1 donations per swim. It’s important to always check for signs or local advice before entering.

3. Fix your sweet tooth at Floravilla

One of the Daintree’s most beloved ice cream haunts, Floravilla churns out organic creations made from seasonal fruits, including the region’s most exotic. Located on Cape Tribulation Road, you won’t miss the blue and white signs leading you towards its biodynamic treats. According to the team, their most alluring flavour is ‘Daintree Rainforest’ which blends lemon myrtle, coconut, ginger, kale, vanilla and spirulina to utterly intrigue.

4. Be enlightened at the Daintree Discovery Centre

the forest walkway at Daintree Discovery Centre — Explore the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Daintree Discovery Centre is the place to visit for a deeper understanding of your surroundings, offering visitors access to every level of the Daintree Rainforest from the forest floor to its upper canopies. You’ll find a 23-metre-high canopy tower, an 11-metre-high aerial walkway, accessible VR exploration from ground level and so much more.

5. Float along a stunning Daintree river

the River Drift Experience at Daintree river — Embark on an enchanting River Drift Experience along the pristine Daintree River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Undoubtedly one of the most unique tours to choose, Back Country Bliss’ River Drift Experience invites visitors to slink along the Mossman River’s clear streams while lying on a lilo (but the team call them ‘river sleds’). Children above the age of four and all fun-seeking grown-ups are welcome on the two-hour experience, which takes in both fast flowing and ultra-serene sections.

6. Sample Daintree Tea straight from the source

You’ve probably seen Daintree Tea before, but even if you haven’t, the brand’s Farmgate Stall on Cape Tribulation Road is a must-experience. The roadside stall offers visitors a chance to sample its pesticide-free, vegan and gluten-free creations as all tea is served within 24 hours of being harvested. The unmanned set-up (you’ll need to make your purchases online prior to arrival or place cash in the on-site honesty box) also sells homemade honey and don’t leave without peeking at the photos hung on the stall’s walls that share insight into the plantation’s operations.

7. Marvel in a spread of giant fan palms

They’re one of the Daintree’s most recognisable features, so embrace the giant fan palm (or Licuala ramsayi, if you’re a budding botanist) in all its glory. The Daintree Fan Palm Farm is home to the Gallery of the Giant Fan Palms which features a boardwalk dotted with the impressive plant. There’s also a 500-year-old spurwood tree to gawk at, plus a secret swimming hole that opens during the wet season.

8. Spot a crocodile along the Daintree River

crocodile spotting with Daintree Boatman Wildlife Cruises — Spot crocs from a boat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It wouldn’t be a trip to the Daintree without seeing one of its native saltwater crocs in the wild. It’s such an essential thing to do in the Daintree that we’ve even rounded up the best of the best. Take a look at our list of the top Daintree River cruises for a sure-fire chance at spotting the enthralling creatures.

9. Wander the Daintree Village’s quaint stores

Get a feel for the community at Daintree Village , which is in fact the Daintree’s oldest settlement, adopted by timber cutters in the 1870s. It’s a bare-bones collective of stores including a pub, grocer and visitor information centre, but dropping in offers quiet respite from days filled with action-packed activity.

10. Laze on the sand at Cow Bay Beach

riding a swing at sunset on Cow Bay Beach — Swing at sunset. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Located halfway between the Daintree River and Cape Tribulation, Cow Bay Beach is a peaceful spot filled with three secluded bays and shaded beach to frolic upon — just don’t enter the surf as crocodiles like it here, too. A hit among fishing folk and serenity seeking holiday makers, the stretch of sand is often visited by butterflies and cassowaries, making for a grounding pit-stop on your way to Cape Tribulation.

Originally written by Emily Murphy with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best accommodation in the Daintree

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.