Post 4/7 in our Australia blog series
The scenic drive which stretches from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is without a doubt one of Australia’s most iconic drives, and we at Economy Car Hire are here to assist you in traversing the Daintree rainforest roadtrip. The drive transports you to a tropical paradise with spectacular oceans views, beautiful beaches and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore Daintree Rainforest itself. The drive is only a 3 hour return trip so can easily be done in a day. An overnight stay in Daintree Village or Cape Tribulation is highly recommended though. This will allow you more time to truly experience the wonders of the world’s oldest rainforest region.
Driving itineraries are available both online or from most visitors’ info centres and some come with additional audio commentary that you can play as you make your way through the Rainforest.
After cruising along the stunning coastal road the Captain Cook Highway for about 80km, Mossman Gorge is the first main stop on the drive and marks the gateway into Daintree. A small piece of paradise you will want to explore on foot. Park up in the Gorge car park and hop on the shuttle bus which will deliver you into an oasis of crystal clear water and lush greenery- a perfect spot for photos! There are short walking tracks around the gorge as well as viewing platforms and an info centre to ensure you make the most of your visit!
From the gorge continue north on the Mossman-Daintree road for another 40km, eventually turning right onto the Cape Tribulation road. Here you will reach the Daintree River ferry crossing which is the only way of entering the Cape Tribulation areas and costs around $20 for a return ticket. Once across the river- look out for crocodiles! The true Daintree experience begins!
The rainforest is bursting with activities, boardwalks and hiking trails, and as the only place in the world where two world heritage sites meet, it is no wonder! Boardwalks and hiking trails, river cruises and kayaking, creek swimming and wildlife spotting… the list is endless! However, we have narrowed it down to a few key highlights you definitely want to add to your bucket list:
- Daintree River cruise– A whole range of river tours and cruises operate throughout the day from the the Daintree River Cruise Centre. They usually include a tea break, a boardwalk, and plenty of photo opportunities! Your river guide will provide an interesting commentary pointing out all sorts of rainforest wildlife and eco-systems along the way. With salt-water crocs swimming alongside the boat, it’s is bound to be an exciting experience!
- Daintree Discovery Centre– The self-proclaimed ‘gateway to Daintree’ is an award-winning interpretive facility allowing visitors access to every level of the rainforest in an eco-friendly way! The discovery centre boasts a canopy tower with 5 viewing platforms, aerial walkways and board walks as well as a display centre. Information on the rainforest is readily available making you feel as though you too are part of the Daintree!
- Alexandra Lookout– Drive up to the Alexandra range lookout for breath taking views of the river mouth, the Great Barrier Reef coastline and the surrounding forests. We are sure that such a view is bound to make you feel like you are on top of the world!
- Night walks, jungle surfing, reef kayaking– Daintree also offers a selection of pretty extreme activities for those who are looking for a more adrenaline fuelled trip! Jungle surfing has recently become all the rage and sends its tour guides and participants soaring through the forest canopy simply harnessed to a series of high wires- yikes! Reef kayaking is also a popular activity. Take to the waters and explore remote beaches, uncover marine wildlife of the Great Barrier Reef and watch the sunset over Mount Sorrow. Night walks are another great option for rainforest thrill seekers- as if it isn’t exciting enough! These guided tours are accompanied by all the noise of the rainforest at night and transport you back to its prehistoric origins, leaving you wondering whether you haven’t just volunteered to tour Jurassic park!
For those planning to make an extended trip to the rainforest, whether it’s just one night, a weekend or a whole week, Daintree Village and Cape Tribulation have plenty to offer in terms of restaurants and accommodation.
If you are staying in Daintree Village the Croc Eye Café is a real favourite amongst visitors with its tasty menu and friendly service, it is sure to satisfy any weary explorer! For those that simply can’t get enough of the rainforest wildlife, Red Mill House offers B&B apartments with a hearty cooked breakfast, and even bird watching from the veranda. Alternatively, if you fancy a couple of nights of pampering and relaxation after all the exploring, the Daintree Ecolodge and Spa is a world leading eco-resort that will undoubtedly leave you feeling relaxed and revitalised after a stay in one of its tree-house style banyans.
Cape Tribulation is a veritable picnic basket of restaurants and cafes offering local delicacies. The Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm is perhaps by far the most popular B&B in the area, offering lodges nestled on the edge of the rainforest and feast of tropical fruits laid out for breakfast. The B&B also offers a fruit tasting and farm tour which we think would make a rather delicious addition to your stay! The Whet restaurant and café is also popular amongst Cape Tribulation diners, offering the comfort of modern dining right in the middle of the rainforest!
So, if the Daintree Rainforest drive sounds like an adventure you want to add to your holiday bucket list, don’t forget to book car hire from Cairns. If you have visited the rainforest or neighbouring Great Barrier Reef let us know your stories and leave us a comment below!
