Overview
An unforgettable day of authentic cultural experiences and ancient beauty awaits.
Oh my, just 2.5 hours north of Cairns you'll find one of the world's greatest treasures, the Daintree Rainforest. No typical forest, this tropical treasure is ancient, estimated at 180 million years old and the oldest in the world. Think about that...for 180 million years, this forest has been alive, thriving, rejuvenating itself over and over. Its biodiversity is unparalleled, containing more than 30% of Australia's reptile and amphibian population and is home to the largest number of rare or threatened plant and animal species anywhere on the planet.
Departing from Cairns, you'll head north along the coast for spectacular views of the Coral Sea en route to Port Douglas. From here, head inland to Mossman Gorge, home to the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people who have inhabited this southern portion of the Daintree Rainforest for thousands of years. You'll hear about their ancient culture and take part in a smoke ceremony, complete with rainforest body paints. This ceremony is designed to ward off bad spirits and ensure that as you wander through these cherished lands, you are welcomed and honored by all who cross your path. If you wish, you'll have time for a refreshing swim in the bracing waters of the Mossman Gorge.
From here, a ferry ride across the Daintree River provides an opportunity to look for some of the local wildlife, particularly the fearless Estuarine Crocodile, as well as many birds, turtles, frogs, and lizards. As you cruise, your guide will relate fascinating information about the river's ecosystem.
Approaching Cape Tribulation, you are entering the only place on earth where 2 World Heritage Sites exist side by side. It is here the Daintree meets the one, the only, the incomparable Great Barrier Reef. And it is here, on the beach, surrounded by nature's abundant beauty, that you will enjoy lunch at the spectacular Ferntree's Rainforest Lodge, offering delicious food and a wide variety of options. After lunch, you'll have free time to relax on this magnificent beach.
Renewed and refreshed, it’s time to take a closer look at the Daintree with a guided tour on the Marrdja Botanical Boardwalk. You'll be mesmerized by the incredible diversity and beauty of the plants that are the lifeblood of this ancient forest. Ferns, cycads, ancient pines, primitive flowering plants, and dazzling orchids are all waiting for your discovery.
After your rainforest exploration, you'll visit the Daintree Ice Cream Company where you can browse their fruit orchards before choosing one (or more) of the many delicious flavors of ice cream, made on-site using tropical fruits straight out of the orchard.
On the return trip back to Cairns, you'll make a stop at the Alexandra Range lookout for a spectacular view of the area you just experienced in-depth.
- Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
- Bring a day bag or backpack to carry your swimsuit, towel, sunblock, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
- Bring along money for purchasing additional snacks and drinks.
- If you bring a camera, make sure it's waterproof.
- The minimum age to participate in this tour is 5 years old.
- Pregnant women and those with heart conditions, back problems or limited mobility are not allowed to participate in this tour.
- All guests will be required to sign a liability waiver prior to participating in the tour.
- This tour does not operate on December 25th.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 07:30 AM, duration: 11.5 hours Tour length is approximate
