Drive the Daintree in one day

As the oldest tropical rainforest in the world and a place that Sir David Attenborough himself called “the most extraordinary place on Earth”, it’s no wonder that the Daintree Rainforest draws visitors from far and wide. Plus, those visiting during summer will get the added bonus of seeing the rainforest at its greenest and most lush.

While a few days are ideal to fully experience its wonders, we understand that not everyone has the luxury of time. If you have just one day, this self-drive itinerary ensures you’ll still capture the very best of this magical destination.

7:00am – Hit the road

Starting from Port Douglas, make your way North along the Captain Cook Highway (which becomes Mossman Daintree Road north of Mossman) towards the Daintree River (approx 50km). Grab yourself a coffee and some brekky in the town of Mossman on the way and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Coral Sea on your right and the rugged mountains on your left.

8:00am - Cross the river

The adventure really begins when you board the ferry. It’s only a short ride across the river, about 5 minutes, but it really adds to the excitement of making your way deep into the rainforest. The ferry runs continually throughout the day from 6am - midnight and you can buy your tickets at the gate.

Tip: Make sure you’ve got some cash handy to pick up some fresh, locally grown tropical fruit to snack on from the Gateway Fruit Stall. You’ll find them on the corner as you turn off the Captain Cook Highway towards the ferry.

8:30am - Daintree Discovery Centre

Ok, so you’ve made your way across the river and now it’s time to get exploring! As you make your way up the ridge, take a minute to stop at the Mount Alexandra Lookout and check out the views below (see if you can spot Port Douglas!) Continue on to your first stop, the Daintree Discovery Centre. Voted the #1 attraction in the Daintree, you’ll be thrown into the thick of the jungle through a range of boardwalks, an aerial walkway and even a 23km high sky tower that gives you a view that only birds could see.

10:30am - Cow Bay Beach

After all that excitement, let’s get your heart rate back down with a visit to your first Daintree beach - Cow Bay. Just 10 minutes from the Discovery Centre, you’ll find the crystal blue waters of this secluded beach. While the water will be inviting, remember to keep a safe distance from the shoreline to be safe from Saltwater Crocodiles that inhabit the area. 5m is recommended and swimming is prohibited. At low tide, Cow Bay is perfect for a beach walk around the headlands and you might even find some hidden coves.

Tip: Keep an eye out for the insta-famous tree swing and get that picture perfect shot for yourself!

12:00pm - Cape Tribulation

You’ve heard the stories, seen the photos and now you get to witness this jaw-dropping place for yourself! Cape Tribulation beach is a beautiful, long stretch of sand at the foothills of the Daintree mountains. Again, there is no swimming at this beach but it’s the perfect backdrop for a walk or even a beach picnic! Take yourself along the two boardwalks; The 1.8km Dubuji Boardwalk which will take you onto Myall Beach (otherside of Cape Trib) and Kulki Boardwalk which will take you up giving you an aerial view of sands and Coral Sea below.

If you haven’t packed your lunch, there’s a number of cafes and restaurants to refuel before continuing on your exploration!

2:00pm Mason’s Cafe and Swimming Hole

From Cape Trib, it’s time to start making your way back towards Port Douglas but that doesn’t mean the fun is over! A beautiful swimming spot, Mason’s Cafe is just a short drive from the beach of Cape Tribulation and is the perfect place to cool off from the heat and humidity of the rainforest. A gold coin donation will grant you access to this secluded (and safe!) swimming spot complete with rope swings and stairs for easy access into the water.

3:30pm Noah’s Creek and Madja Boardwalk
Now that you’re nice and refreshed, you’ll be ready for one last walk through the greenery! Keep following the road down towards the ferry until you reach Noah’s Creek and Madja Boardwalk. This will be the final walk for the day and is a beautiful blend of rainforest, mangroves and waterways. The 1.2km circuit is fairly easy and be sure to keep an eye out for cassowaries and other locals along the way!

4:30pm Daintree Ice Cream Co

There’s just one last stop on your Daintree tour and it could be the most important one. You simply cannot visit the region without stopping at the Daintree Ice Cream Co for a scoop (or three) of their delicious, handmade ice cream. Made from seasonal fruit grown at the onsite orchard, the flavours vary daily but regulars include coconut, dragonfruit and black sapote.

Tip: If you can’t decide on just one flavour, get a Tasting Cup which gives you all three flavours of the day so you don’t have to miss out! And keep in mind they close at 5pm so be sure to time accordingly!

5:00pm - Journey back to Port Douglas

After an incredible day exploring the Daintree, it’s time to start heading back south. As dusk approaches, be mindful that animals are most active at this time of day so keep an eye out for cassowaries and wallabies that are often near the roads. Drive slowly and carefully and you should arrive back in Port Douglas around 7:30pm.

Things to remember:

• Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent and snacks. There are shops along the way however, it’s always best to be prepared.

• Check your fuel! Make sure you’ve got enough gas in the tank to get you through the rainforest. There is one petrol station near Thornton Beach but again, it’s better to be well stocked and save yourself the stress

• Service isn’t guaranteed. Once you cross the Daintree River, phone service becomes unreliable. Be sure to download offline maps and screenshot any useful information before you leave.

• Drive to conditions. Especially if it’s wet and raining! Some of the roads can be narrow and slippery in the wet so take your time and drive at a speed you are comfortable with.

• Check for closures. Increased rainfall can sometimes mean roads or attractions, such as boardwalks, are temporarily closed. Check the DESI website before you leave to avoid disappointment.

• Be mindful of wildlife, particularly cassowaries and crocodiles, and observe all signage.

• Respect the environment and stay on designated paths and boardwalks to protect this World Heritage-listed ecosystem.