Everything you need to know about visiting the Daintree Rainforest

Is this you? You’ve heard about the Daintree Rainforest, how wonderful it is and how you need to add it to your bucket list but when you go to book a trip you feel overwhelmed and confused?I If you’re nodding your head in agreement, then you’re in the right place because we’re about to answer all the questions you have about heading into the oldest rainforest in the world to make sure you get the most out of your experience.

Q. When is the best time to visit?

The beauty of the Daintree is that it is beautiful and accessible year round! If you want to see the rainforest at its greenest, most luscious best opt to visit during the summer months when rainfall is higher. These months also bring less crowds and generally lower prices than the more popular visiting time through winter.

Q. How long do I need to spend in the Daintree to get the full experience?

With so much to do and see in the region, we recommend at least two days to make sure you’re getting the full experience. This gives you time to really take it all in and not have to rush your way through. Plus, more time means more chances to spot wildlife!

That being said, we know that not everyone has the luxury of time when visiting. If that’s the case for you, we suggest leaving it to the experts and opting for a full day tour. This way you’ll get to see all the best bits in a streamlined, time efficient and easy way.

Q. Will I have phone reception?
Yes and no. Phone service and internet tends to drop in and out and reliability decreases the further north you go. Most accommodations and restaurants have wi-fi however, don’t expect it to be at city speeds. We suggest telling work that you’re uncontactable and taking this rare opportunity to disconnect from the outside world.

Q. Do I have to cross the river to experience the rainforest?

No! You can still throw yourself into the magic of the Daintree without crossing the Daintree River. Mossman Gorge just past Port Douglas and the Daintree Village which sits this side of the river, both offer beautiful scenery and wildlife encounters and won’t leave you feeling like you’ve missed out.

Q. How do I cross the Daintree River?

There’s only one way to get across the Daintree River and that’s the ferry! The short ride across the river operates from 5am - midnight every single day of the year and has become an iconic part of the journey into the rainforest. No need to prebook tickets, you can simply buy one at the gate.

Q. Do I need a 4WD?

Nope! The roads, while a little bit steep and windy, are paved and easily accessible for even the smallest of cars to travel on. However, if you plan on taking the Bloomfield or CREB tracks, you will need a 4WD.

It is worth noting that there are ongoing restoration works on sections of the road with some areas under traffic management. As a result, you can expect some minor delays but this just gives you extra time to sit back and soak up your surroundings!

Q. Can I tow my caravan along the Bloomfield and CREB tracks?

It’s not recommended to tow anything behind you when tackling either of these two tracks. The rough, steep and tricky terrain means towing anything is not only difficult but also dangerous.

Q. Is the Daintree Rainforest wheelchair accessible?

Yes! Mossman Gorge and parts of the Daintree National Park are accessible by wheelchair. Dubuji, Jindalba and Madja Boardwalks are all currently open and wheelchair friendly. Kulki Boardwalk and viewing platform are currently closed for upgrades and will reopen on December 18th 2024 along with its wheelchair access.

Q. Can I bring my dog?

Most of the area over the Daintree River lies within the Daintree National Park and does not permit dogs or other pets. If you are travelling with your dog in the car, make sure you stick to public roads and won’t be allowed to stop at any day rest or picnic areas or risk getting a hefty fine. There are however, certain areas of Cape Tribulation and Cow Bay that fall outside of these restrictions and do allow dogs.

Q. Do I need a guide, or can I explore the Daintree on my own?

Both! The answer to this depends on what sort of traveller you are and how much time you have. If you’ve got your own car and you want to go at your own pace, you can very easily explore the Daintree without a guide. If you’re time poor, don’t have your own vehicle or simply like having the expert knowledge that you get from a guided tour, then there are plenty of half, full and multi day tours available.

For a full day excursion, Down Under Tours, Tony’s Tropical Tours and Daintree Tours are great. For a half-day adventure look to Daintree Discovery Tours and you can choose which section you’d prefer to visit. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Opt for a multi-day rainforest expedition with Billy Tea Safaris.

Q. Is it safe to swim in the rivers or the beach?

Stick to the designated swimming holes like Masons Swimming Hole at Mason’s cafe. We get it. It can get hot up here in Tropical North Queensland and the water always looks so inviting but you’ll need to exert self control and not dive head first into any body of water you see remembering to always be Croc Wise. We share this beautiful environment with them so it’s important for your own safety to be aware of their habitat.

As for the beaches, crocodiles use them to move between river systems so it is not safe to swim at any beach in the Daintree. Walking along a remote tropical beach with the Daintree Rainforest in the background is incredible and we encourage visitors to experience this but remember to keep a safe distance from the shoreline - 5m or more is recommended. There’s also the presence of marine stingers during the summer months, and trust us when we say you do not want to risk getting in the way of one of those!