• Explore Cape Tribulation, the only place where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, with time to walk rainforest trails and relax on pristine beaches.
• Cruise the Daintree River on a silent solar-electric vessel with a 99% success rate for spotting crocodiles and exceptional bird-watching opportunities.

Experience Cape Tribulation on a full-day guided tour from Cairns. Cruise the Daintree River, explore rainforest trails, enjoy lunch in a jungle setting, and visit the beach where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.

What to Expect

Your day begins at 7:30am with a pickup in Cairns before travelling north along the iconic Great Barrier Reef Drive. This coastal highway offers uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea and the chance to see how the landscape shifts as you approach the Daintree Rainforest. Along the way, your guide explains the ecological contrasts between the coastal environment and the ancient tropical rainforest ahead.

At 9:15am, you’ll join the Solar Whisper Wildlife Cruise for a quiet, low-impact journey along the Daintree River. Powered by a silent solar-electric system, the vessel allows a closer, more natural wildlife encounter without noise or fumes. With a 99% success rate for spotting crocodiles, exceptional bird-watching and frequent sightings of snakes, frogs and fish, this one-hour cruise offers an authentic glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity. Morning tea is served before departure.

By 11:00am, you’ll arrive at Heritage Lodge, an environmentally conscious retreat hidden in the rainforest near Cooper Creek. Enjoy lunch surrounded by jungle scenery, with the option to take a peaceful, secluded swim before continuing north.

After lunch, the 1:30pm Madja Rainforest Walk introduces you to one of the Daintree’s most significant interpretive trails. Your guide leads you through a living museum of ancient plant life, towering rainforest canopies, and the diverse ecosystems that define this World Heritage-listed region. This gentle walk reveals the resilience and age of the rainforest while offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

At 2:30pm, you’ll reach Cape Tribulation Beach—one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage areas meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Stroll along secluded beaches, wander shaded forest edges, or simply take in the sweeping views of the headlands and Coral Sea. This area is known for its rare wildlife, including the southern cassowary, as well as its untouched bays and coastal trails.

The return journey begins at 3:30pm. Settle into your modern, air-conditioned vehicle for a relaxing drive south. Cross the Daintree River via the historic Cable Ferry and re-enter civilisation with time to reflect on the day’s experiences—and browse through the photos you’ve captured.

Features and Highlights

• Scenic Great Barrier Reef Drive with commentary
• Solar Whisper Wildlife Cruise with a 99% crocodile-spotting success rate
• Quiet, eco-friendly solar-electric vessel for enhanced wildlife viewing
• Bird-watching and opportunities to see snakes, frogs and fish
• Optional secluded rainforest swim at Cooper Creek
• Guided Madja Rainforest Walk through ancient ecosystems
• Small-group touring with expert local guides
 

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Port Douglas

Departure Time

08:30

Destinations

• Daintree Rainforest
• Cape Tribulation

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Duration

9 Hours

Fitness Level Required

Low

• Sun protection advised: hat, sunglasses
• Good walking shoes
• Camera and water bottle
• Day pack for carrying personal items
• Towel & spare clothes for swimming
• Your enthusiasm!