14 action-packed things to do in Cape Tribulation 

For the ultimate list of things to do in Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef, you’re in the right place.

Cape Tribulation is a truly special place where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, meet, and there are so many things to do to immerse yourself in its magic.

As the highway meanders north, roadside signs promise tourists an exceptional experience and winding roads and stunning beaches certainly deliver. The jungle is hot and steamy, especially in the summer months, which means the soil is rich, well irrigated and perfect for growing bananas, mangoes, passionfruit, papaya and a multitude of tropical fruits.

Ancient stories wind through lush jungle branches and leaves down to magnificent beaches. It’s a place at the end of civilisation’s sealed roads, where crocodiles lurk and fan palms hang overhead.

Whether you base yourself in Cape Tribulation, sleep under the stars or stay elsewhere in the rainforest (there are so many things to do in the Daintree) you could stay forever. Here, our favourite things to do in Cape Tribulation.

1. Visit the Daintree Rainforest

a Dreamtime Walk with a local Kuku Yalanji guide, Mossman Gorge

The Dreamtime Walk leads you through the wonders of the world’s oldest living rainforest. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Cape Tribulation is in the heart of the Daintree so it would be a crime to skip the oldest continuously living rainforest in the world while you’re visiting.

Head to Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre to embark on a Dreamtime Walk with a local Kuku Yalanji guide. Beginning with a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony to fend off bad spirits, the tour leads you through stunning rainforest, observing traditional huts or humpies (traditional huts crafted from bark and leaves) along the way.

Your guide will show you the traditional use of certain plants while sharing creation stories, shining a light on just how profound its Indigenous roots are. Once the tour wraps, traditional bush tea and damper will come out and guests should note that while all fitness levels are invited to pop along, there are some slippery bits if it’s rained. Sturdy shoes (and insect repellent if you’ve got room) are non-negotiable.

2. Zipline overhead on a Treetops Adventure

Spread your wings to the branches above by signing up to Treetops Adventure’s Zipline Canopy Tour. For two glorious hours, you’ll tower over the Daintree’s native flora and fauna (including land-bound cassowaries, sorry suckers!) below, soaring up to 15 metres above ground level. You’ll tackle timber boardwalks and nine ziplines that stretch anywhere from 15 to 130 metres in length, plus there’s an included river tour to help you hunt for crocs. Morning tea and lunch are provided.

3. Race out to the Great Barrier Reef

swimming with a sea turtle, Ocean Safari

Swim with sea turtles. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Dreaming of a slow, gentle ride to rock you to sleep? Well, Ocean Safari isn’t for you. The high-speed Cape Tribulation boat ride takes about 25 minutes, dragging you out to two stellar snorkelling spots, Mackay Reef and Mackay Coral Cay. You have the option to sit on the 700-horsepower boat’s inflatable sides as the skipper “drives it like he stole it" — and boy, does he what. This tour is not for the faint-hearted, and if you’re not feeling those inflatable walls, normal seats are also on offer. The half-day trips, which run in the morning and afternoon, include all snorkelling gear and eco presentations, plus you can buy underwater photos for an additional fee. Stinger suits are also up for grabs from $8 per person.

4. Watch the sunrise on Cape Tribulation Beach

Take in the beauty of Cape Trib’s golden beaches at first light. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If there’s ever a place to set an alarm and catch the sunrise, make it Cape Tribulation. There’s something thrilling about walking through the pitch black to sit on the sand and wait for the sun to emerge, especially when crocs may lurk in the water. If you keep your distance from the crashing waves, you’ll be just fine. Guests at Cape Trib Beach House often take in the sunrise from here, so you might even find a spare seat set up by the team to help you gaze in comfort.

5. Slurp up a treat at Daintree Ice Cream Co

The beloved Daintree Ice Cream is made from organically grown fruits. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You’ll need to venture just under 30 minutes down the coast but doesn’t every good holiday demand top-notch ice cream? Daintree Ice Cream Co is the place to indulge, offering creamy small-batch goodness made from organically grown fruits grown mostly on its 22-acre property. The team invites you to explore its gorgeous fruit orchard to experience the source of your deliciousness first-hand — artificial sweeteners and bucketloads of sugar, be gone. Located on Cape Tribulation Road, you may even find yourself a spot of Wi-Fi, though we don’t rely on it as coverage is notoriously patchy up here.

6. Walk along the Madja, Kulki and Dubuji boardwalks

the Dubuji boardwalk leading to Myall Beach, Cape Tribulation

Dubuji boardwalk takes you to Myall Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Traversing the Madja, Kulki and Dubuji boardwalks, all clearly marked paths in Cape Tribulation takes anywhere from 15 minutes to around an hour to complete. Signs are scattered along each journey, giving detailed information about the littoral (shoreside) forests and mangroves that make up the ecosystems encountered along the way. The canopy forms a protective shade from the sun’s rays, offering visitors a delightful opportunity to reflect and meditate on the magnificence of this sacred spot.

7. Dip into Mason’s Swimming Hole

a woman dipping in Mason’s Swimming Hole, Daintree Rainforest

Cool off at the croc-free Mason’s Swimming Hole. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Leave your donation in the honesty box and trek down a short path for a swim in a divine (and croc-free) waterhole. This Cape Tribulation secret spot, adored by locals who love talking about it, is a natural wonder. Make dams with the perfectly spherical rocks or simply float in the fresh clear water, gazing up at a lush canopy above.

8. Trot the beach with Cape Trib Horse Rides

riding horses along Myall Beach, Cape Tribulation

Ride a horse on Cape Tribulation’s Myall Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Emerge from the shaded verdant forest paths out onto Myall Beach and canter through the sand on a horse handpicked for you by experienced staff. Cape Trib Horse Rides is a locally owned and managed Ecotourism Australia ECO-certified tour giving guests the chance to walk a four-legged friend into the shallow waters of the ocean (clarity permitting and only at the discretion of the guides). Unsurprisingly, great photo opportunities ensure you capture this exhilarating Cape Tribulation experience, which lasts for 90 minutes and departs twice daily at 11am and 2.30pm. If you’re travelling from Cairns or Port Douglas during peak season, factor in ample time to cross the river at the ferry.

9. Grab a bite at Turtle Rock Cafe

Located in the heart of town, adjacent to the tourist office and caravan park, Turtle Rock Cafe is a popular al fresco meeting point for locals seeking their morning coffee fix. Meals are also readily devoured, showcasing wholesome local produce as much as possible. Environmentally conscious, serving its coffee in recycled cups, the Cape Tribulation eatery is also a good spot to tap into some Wi-Fi, though do bear in mind that it’s not entirely reliable, in true Cape Trib style.

10. Cool off at Emmagen Creek

two women relaxing at Emmagen Creek, Cape Tribulation

Take a refreshing dip in the creek. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

At the end of Rykers Road, passing Turtle Rock Cafe, Cape Tribulation Bloomfield Road morphs into an unsealed, gravel road. Eventually, it will dip, leading you right to the Emmagen Creek crossing. The path to its beautiful swimming hole isn’t signposted well, so look for a gap between the scrub where you’ll spy a well-trodden dirt track. Follow it to a bamboo arch and keep going past a Pandanus palm before turning left. At this point, you should spy the creek through the branches. Follow the creek edge and eventually, you’ll strike gold.

Expect fresh, crystal-clear water and a rope tied to a sturdy branch which naturally encourages visitors to swing off and launch themselves into this soothing sanctuary.

11. Taste local fruit at Cape Trib Farm

The Cape Trib Farm grows rare exotic fruits in its tropical orchard. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Tempt your tastebuds on Cape Trib Farm’s Fruit Tasting tour where guests will learn about atypical tropical fruits like mangosteen, soursop, rambutan, jackfruit and more. Tour frequency varies from season to season, so check the website for up-to-date information but pencil in a 2pm start no matter when you arrive. You’ll return to base camp 90 minutes later.

12. Hike the Mt Sorrow ridge trail

A strenuous seven-kilometre day walk, those who accept the challenge won’t be sorry when they reach the high ridges of this glorious forest track. On a clear day, expect spectacular views to the Daintree coastline. As with all hikes, walkers must carry water and first aid gear, and it’s a good idea to let someone know your route. Visitors should note that the Grade 4 walking path, which takes roughly six hours in total, is steep and requires some scrambling over logs. Only experienced bushwalkers with above-average fitness should jump on board.

13. Be awed by a giant strangler fig tree

a giant strangler fig tree, Cape Tribulation

Drive past the majestic strangler fig tree. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

If you’re heading up to Emmagen Creek, keep your eyes peeled on the right side of your journey for one seriously majestic strangler fig. The giant tree is a marvel and worth a quick pull-over to snap a photo. If you follow its roots, you’ll find that they go for hundreds of metres around the tree.

14. Live out your treehouse fantasies

a woman bathing in an outdoor tub at Silky Oaks Lodge

Bathe amidst the dense greenery of the Daintree Rainforest at Silky Oaks Lodge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Stir that inner child within by locking in a night or two at one of Cape Tribulation’s outstanding treehouse stays. Silky Oaks Lodge and Daintree Wilderness Lodge, two of the best Daintree accommodation options, offer above-ground lodgings drenched in luxury. Views stretch right throughout the Daintree Rainforest, sweeping in natural drama like steep mountainous drops and glistening riverbanks.

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

Shake off your tech and reconnect to earth with the most grounding Daintree walks.

Tapping into your inner vine-swinging Mowgli is unavoidable upon entering Tropical North Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest. Crammed with flowing streams, cascading waterfalls, secret swimming spots and jaw-dropping mountain ranges, the Daintree Rainforest is the oldest rainforest on the entire planet. While action-packed Daintree tours round up serious highlights, nothing compares to strapping on your boots and getting (strategically) lost amongst its immensity.

Before you go, it’s worth noting that safe trails are contained to Daintree National Park, which works to preserve a huge portion of the wider rainforest. Split into the rocky Mossman Gorge area and coastal Cape Tribulation section, the park is a nature lover’s playground. Here, we unveil the best Daintree walks to get you exploring with ease.

1. Rainforest Circuit Track in Mossman Gorge

a guided Dreamtime Walk experience, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre

Join the 1.5-hour Dreamtime Walk in Mossman Gorge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Distance: 3.4 kilometres

Time: Roughly 2 hours

Difficulty: Grade 3, which means there’s some obstacles. Walking experience is required and Grade 3 also indicates steep hills and more than a few stairs.

Easily one of the most popular walks in the Daintree, the Rainforest Circuit Track in Mossman Gorge offers ridiculous views of Mount Demi, a spiritually significant rock formation of the local Kuku Yalanji people. Visitors will delight in the array of flora and fauna this Daintree walk covers, including strangler figs and various butterfly species, while the circular nature of the trip equals straightforward exploration — who doesn’t love that?

To get there, seek out the shuttle bus stop car park in Mossman Gorge and take the Baral Marrjanga track to the Rex Creek bridge track (more on both of those trails, below). The circuit starts on the far side of the bridge.

2. Dubuji Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation

Take the scenic Dubuji Boardwalk through the foothills of Mount Alexandra. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Distance: 1.2 kilometres

Time: About 45 minutes

Difficulty: Grade 1, which means the track is flat, stair-free, clearly signposted and well-formed. Wheelchairs are also welcome, though some assistance is required.

If the Daintree walk of your dreams involves gazing into lush mangrove swamps to uncover what lies beneath, the Dubuji Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation has your name on it. Extremely simple to navigate due to its flat terrain, this pick is known to throw up the odd cassowary, too. Bird life thrives here, in fact, with kingfishers and orange-footed scrubfowls roaming the joint — and then there’s the payoff for all your hard work, Myall Beach, accessible from the boardwalk.

3. Manjal Jimalji (Devils Thumb) Trail

Distance: 10.6 kilometres, return

Time: 8 hours

Difficulty: Grade 4, which means the trail’s rough and steep with minimal signposts. You’ll need bushwalking experience and be extra careful if it’s been raining as the track will get slippery.

Full-day explorers who know how to navigate uneven and hilly terrain should consider the incredible Manjal Jimalji (Devils Thumb) Trail, which uncovers one of the most culturally significant sites in the region. A word of warning from Queensland National Parks: experienced walkers should only attempt this Daintree walk between May and November when rain is minimal and the track isn’t slippery. The team advises visitors to steer clear of it any other time.

If you do find an opportunity to strike it off your bucket list, however, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular plant life, spanning ancient bloodwoods and giant wattles, the upper reaches of the Daintree, breathtaking views out to Port Douglas and Thornton Peak, and the dramatic Split Rock boulder.

4. Lower River Track in Mossman Gorge

Spy the Mossman River gushing over granite boulders. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Distance: 640 metres, return

Time: About 40 minutes in total

Difficulty: Grade 2, which means the trail is formed but you’ll likely encounter hills and steps. Be careful if it’s been raining as things get slippery.

Flowing streams, birdsong harmonies and multicoloured butterflies? The Lower River Track in Mossman Gorge is a short but insanely sweet stretch of prime Daintree real estate. Keep your eyes peeled for several lookouts to help you spy the Mossman River gushing over granite boulders and into the ocean, and don’t be surprised to spot a turtle amid your awe. You’ll find this Daintree walk’s entry at the shuttle bus stop in the Mossman Gorge day-use area.

5. Rex Creek Bridge Track in Mossman Gorge

Distance: 1.4 kilometres, return

Time: Roughly 1 hour

Difficulty: Grade 2, which means the trail is formed but you’ll likely encounter hills and steps.

If you’re wary of unstable heights, look away. Adventure seekers will, however, love the Rex Creek Bridge Track in Mossman Gorge, which takes visitors onto a suspension bridge across the flowing Rex Creek. You’ll trawl lush rainforest to get to the star of the show, which also provides an epic vantage point to spot turtles and fish that call the creek home. To find the walk’s entry, leave from the Mossman Gorge car park along the Baral Marrjanga track, which leads to the bridge track.

6. Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail in Cape Tribulation

Distance: 7 kilometres, return

Time: About 6 hours

Difficulty: Grade 4, which means the trail’s rough and steep, with minimal signposts. You’ll need bushwalking experience for this one.

For a sweeping view of the Daintree’s spectacular coastline, the Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail is the ultimate pick. Ascending the ridge of Mount Sorrow, this Daintree walk soars you 680 metres above ground level and once you do reach that summit, you’ll spy the Great Barrier Reef if conditions are clear. Queensland National Parks recommends you leave the peak’s lookout by 2pm, even on a sunny day, to allow enough time to return before dark.

7. Kulki Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation

This Daintree walk leads you to Cape Tribulation’s golden beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Distance: 600 metres, return

Time: Just 10 minutes

Difficulty: Grade 1, which means the track is flat, stair-free, clearly signposted and well-formed.

An all-too-convenient stretch of timber makes strolling the Kulki Boardwalk an easy choice, as do the legendary Cape Tribulation views you’ll score along the way. From dramatic headlands to golden beaches, delightful eyefuls run rife on this Daintree walk, which can be reached by driving along Cape Tribulation Road and turning into its well-signalled car park.

8. Madja Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation

Distance: 1.2 kilometre circuit

Time: About 45 minutes

Difficulty: Grade 1, which means the track is flat, stair-free, clearly signposted and well-formed.

It’s mangrove country again on the Madja Boardwalk, a loop that explores the Daintree’s lowland tranquillity. You’ll trail a sturdy path dotted with educational signage to offer insight into the Daintree’s incredible plant life as the odd eel and crabs plus other crustaceans shuffle down low.

9. Jindalba Circuit Track in Cape Tribulation

friends exploring Jindalba Circuit Track in Cape Tribulation

Wander through the 650-metre Jindalba Circuit Track surrounded by unique flora and fauna. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Distance: 3-kilometre circuit

Time: About 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Grade 4, which means the trail’s rough and steep with minimal signposts. You’ll need bushwalking experience.

Find your grippiest shoes as the Jindalba Circuit Track takes visitors across multiple trickling creeks, so the conditions are inevitably wet. Your effort will be worth it, however, as this Daintree walk scales the base of Mount Alexandria, taking in loads of native wildlife including an extensive collection of birds, like giant cassowaries, and multiple kangaroo types.

10. Baral Marrjanga Track in Mossman Gorge

Distance: 660 metres, return

Time: Roughly 30 minutes

Difficulty: Grade 1, which means the track is flat, stair-free, clearly signposted and well-formed. Wheelchairs and prams are welcome.

Navigate the Mossman Gorge from above with the elevated Baral Marrjanga Track. One of the simplest Daintree walks, the trek runs through the lower canopy and is littered with bright butterflies. There’s also a lookout to hang at where vistas across the Mossman River dazzle and turtles have been spotted below. Access the track from the Mossman Gorge day-use area car park.

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