Bucket list experience:
Daintree Rainforest, Queensland, Australia
Credit Tourism Australia
There are river cruises and there is cruising through a 180-million-year-old rainforest, amid ancient and primitive flora teeming with wildlife.
Expect plenty of “oohs” and “aahs” during your cruise. Even for seasoned travellers, the first sight of the massive saltwater crocodiles (some of which top 20 feet) is jaw-dropping – and there is no shortage of these cold-blooded monsters on this river.
While crocodiles are the headline act here visitors will also see an impressive range of other native species, including frogs, butterflies and birds. Cassowaries, tree kangaroos, ringtail possums and kingfishers are some of the more exotic residents – but harder to spot. The boat captains offer a fascinating insight to the Daintree, its history and wildlife, and to local Aboriginal legends as you go.
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Destination Guide >All licensed cruise boats on the Daintree River operate from private jetties. Departure point depends on the operator you are going with.
Since there is no public transport in this part of Queensland, guests will need their own vehicle or book onto an organised tour. Visitors staying in the nearby Daintree Rainforest may be able to arrange transfers via their hotel.
Wildlife cruises operate on the Daintree River all year round, but the cooler and drier months (June to October) are preferred. Saltwater crocodiles are generally visible throughout the day, but late afternoon and evening cruises are better if want to see smaller species such as frogs.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[23.7 miles]
Rainforest relaxation guaranteed at this beautifully run eco-lodge with a fantastic restaurant and award-winning spa.
Official star rating:
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[27.8 miles]
A compact, beachside hotel equipped with kitchenettes that’s an excellent choice for those travelling on a budget. Adults only.
Official star rating:
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[27.8 miles]
Decidedly upmarket beachside resort hotel with a fantastic in-house spa and award-winning restaurant. A good all-rounder with something for everyone.
Official star rating:
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia[27.9 miles]
A modern apartment hotel in the centre of Port Douglas. A perfect, convenient base, close to all of the evening action, for those who want to spend their days out exploring (rather than lounging in a resort). Adults only.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Queensland, Australia
Swish, cosmopolitan and delightfully laid-back, Port Douglas is an ideal stepping off point for trips to the Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef, and to connect with authentic indigenous culture.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Daintree Rainforest, Queensland, Australia[11.4 miles]
One of the world’s natural wonders, the 180-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest is an ancient and stunningly beautiful rainforest, packed with exotic and rare flora and fauna.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Cooya Beach, Queensland, Australia[21.8 miles]
Discover the secrets of Queensland’s coastal landscape and learn traditional aboriginal skills such as spear-throwing, mud-crabbing and fishing on an immersive tour with a Kuku Yalanji guide.
Best for ages: 4+ | £48 | 3 hours
Mossman, Queensland, Australia[24.1 miles]
Discover a different perspective on the Daintree Rainforest by drifting along the Mossman river on an inflatable raft, with turtles and waterdragons under the water and soaring mountains above.
Best for ages: 4+ | £65 | 3.5+ hours
Mossman, Queensland, Australia[24.3 miles]
Discover aboriginal customs and culture along with the secrets of one of the worlds’ oldest rainforests on a guided Dreamtime walk through the Daintree.
Best for ages: 13+ | £44 | 1 hour
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Mossman, Queensland, Australia[23 miles]
Learn the ancient local art of dot painting – on canvas or boomerang – these engaging workshops run by an Aboriginal-owned local art gallery.
Best for ages: 4+ | £30 | 90 minutes
Mossman, Queensland, Australia[24.2 miles]
This quality art gallery features the work of the best local Kuku Yalanji artists. The gallery is part of a unique indigenous tourism project which also includes dreamtime walks, a gift shop and a café serving local bush tucker.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
