Daintree National Park is one of Australia’s most iconic tropical rainforests, located in Far North Queensland and part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Just a short drive from Cairns or Port Douglas, the park is easily accessible by road and makes a perfect stop on a North Queensland road trip. Here’s a simple guide to getting there and planning your journey.
Daintree National Park is located in Far North Queensland, Australia, and forms part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The park stretches from Mossman Gorge in the south to Cape Tribulation in the north, where rainforest meets the Coral Sea and the Great Barrier Reef. This region is known for its ancient rainforest, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife.
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Walk through lush rainforest on elevated paths, enjoying rare flora, fauna, and Indigenous interpretive signage along the way.
Daintree National Park is in Far North Queensland, Australia, stretching from Mossman Gorge in the south to Cape Tribulation in the north, within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
The most convenient option is self-drive or a guided tour from Cairns or Port Douglas. Tours often include hotel pickup and drop-off, ferry crossings, and transport to key sites like Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation, and Daintree River.
The park is approximately 95 km from Cairns, which is about a 1.5–2 hour drive including the Daintree River ferry crossing.
It is around 45 km from Port Douglas, typically 45–60 minutes by road including the ferry.
Yes, but options are limited. Guided tours and shuttle services operate from Cairns and Port Douglas, covering key attractions with transfers included.
Very much so. The route passes tropical rainforest, rivers, beaches, and wildlife, with several scenic pull-offs and lookouts along the way.
Yes, but roads can be narrow and winding in places, especially after the ferry crossing. Drive cautiously and allow extra time for stops.
Heavy tropical rain can occasionally affect road conditions or the Daintree River ferry. Always check ferry status and tour updates before traveling.
Designated parking is available at Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation, and Daintree River cruise terminals, with clear signage for visitors.
Cape Tribulation is approximately 35 km north of the ferry, roughly a 45–60 minute drive, making it easy to include in a guided tour.
Yes. Wildlife spotting, short walks, lookouts, and photo opportunities can add extra time, so build flexibility into your itinerary.
Half-day tours cover highlights like Mossman Gorge or river cruises. Full-day tours are recommended to see Mossman Gorge, Daintree River, Cape Tribulation, and the coastline comfortably.
Yes. Guided tours operate throughout the year, but heavy rain in the wet season (November–April) may cause temporary delays or require itinerary adjustments.
Fuel is available in Cairns, Port Douglas, or Mossman. There are limited options north of the Daintree River, so refuel before heading deeper into the park.
