A day in the Daintree Rainforest
Unearth the 180-million-year-old secrets of the world’s oldest rainforest with an unforgettable day in the Daintree.
Drive to Cape Tribulation for lunch
Continue your journey to Cape Tribulation, stopping for lunch at the Turtle Rock Cafe. This laidback café showcases the beauty of Tropical North Queensland’s produce, from its Mareeba-grown coffee to smoothies made with local exotic fruit. Refuel with healthy sandwiches, wraps, muffins and more. From the café, it’s just a few minutes’ drive to beautiful Cape Tribulation Beach, where the rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.
Take a dip in the water here or venture 10 minutes north to Emmagen Creek, a safe swimming hole in the Daintree lowlands.
Explore Cape Tribulation on horseback
Discover the beauty of the reef and rainforest on horseback with Cape Trib Horse Rides. Feel like a true explorer as you spot local flora and fauna, weaving through the rainforest towards Myall Beach. Here, take in views of the Great Barrier Reef and walk your horse into the shallow waters of the ocean (clarity permitting) for a fantastic photo opportunity.
You don’t need any prior experience and each rider is paired with a horse suited to their ability.
Spot wildlife on the Dubuji Boardwalk
Make your way back into Cape Tribulation via the Dubuji Boardwalk. This approximately one-hour roundtrip consists of a 1.8-kilometre interpretive boardwalk through the forest and mangroves. Keep an eye out for small fish, crabs and cassowaries as you cross through the forest on a raised boardwalk through swamp-like terrain to Myall Beach.
This level, easy walk is perfect for all abilities and is accessible by wheelchair and with strollers.
Return via dinner in Palm Cove
Conclude your day of exploration in the Daintree with dinner in Palm Cove. This laidback coastal city is named after the palms that line its beach and was made for al fresco dining. Portofino is a local favourite, serving casual delicious bites overlooking the ocean. The pastas and woodfire pizzas bring a taste of Italy to Queensland, while the fish of the day makes the most of its local seafood.
A stroll along the beachfront is perfect for stretching your legs before the onward journey.