This morning you head north to the Ecolodge, a 90 minute drive from Cairns to the Daintree on one of Australia’s most spectacular drives. Departing Cairns on the Captain Cook Highway along a stunning coastal drive passing Port Douglas, Mossman and Daintree Village. The Ecolodge is nestled on the southern banks of the impressive Daintree River. A ferry crossing is not required to get here.
On arrival staff will greet you and assist you to your room. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
For more information on the lodge visit: https://wetu.com/iBrochure/en/Home/10589_59745/daintree_ecolodge
Hire car - please make sure you arrange a 4WD/SUV or similar vehicle that can take you off the bitumen highway as this will allow you to experience more remote areas in the north.
Today you travel to the Daintree Rainforest for a full day of private touring. Your day may include something like this:
Daintree, an area of ancient tropical rainforest spanning 120,000 hectares, making it the largest portion of tropical rainforest in Australia. Enjoy an interpretive walk through the longest and most luscious nature trail in the National Park. An unrivalled opportunity to witness the complex ecosystems in this World Heritage Area, finished off with a swim in the freshwater gorge.
At the Daintree Tea House, lunch has an exotic theme. The outside dining area is beautiful and exclusive, with views of the surrounding rainforest and continuous sounds of birds and nature.
After lunch you travel to the Daintree River for your Wildlife Cruise. The surroundings are full of opportunities to observe and photograph some of the most primitive forms of animal and plant life in the world. Your cruise operator has the only solar electric vessel on the Daintree River. The clean, green, quiet machine greatly benefits your wildlife spotting privileges. Most days great bird life and crocodile activity is experienced.
You return to your accommodation in the late afternoon.
Please make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your swimmers and a towel. You may also like to bring insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen and an umbrella/rain poncho.
No activities have been planned for today. We suggest you consider either of the following activities (at additional cost and subject to availability).
River Drift Snorkel: This morning you make your way to Port Douglas for the 9.00 am River Drift Snorkel tour - shared basis with a maximum of 12 guests.
Within an ancient rainforest you drift slowly downstream with the current in the most beautiful, crystal clear rainforest river. Watch fish dart in and around the river stones and keep your eyes out for the occasional turtle.
This family friendly tour is the ultimate way to enjoy the rainforest on a hot summer’s day. A great introduction to snorkelling before heading out to the reefs. Small children (and adults) can journey down the river on large river sleds.
All wetsuits and snorkelling gear are provided and an experienced instructor accompanies you on this unique journey. Please be aware that this tour may not operate if river levels are too high and your safety may be compromised.
The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, including return transfers from Port Douglas.
Hike Devil's Thumb - This challenging trek is for the very active and takes around 10-12 hours to complete.
Located in the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park, this challenging 10 km return-walk is steep, but offers a truly unique experience. As you make your way up the trail, walk through a variety of terrain ranging from lowland rainforest, to a coral fern-dotted clearing 1000 m up.
Scramble over boulders to reach the lookout of Devils Thumb; a large boulder overhanging the rainforest below. Enjoy sublime views across the main coast range, the coast line and Coral Sea to the east. The views and abundant bird life make the hard work worthwhile.
River Drift Snorkel: For safety reasons, some medical conditions, disabilities or impairments may exclude participants from the tour. Private touring can also be arranged - at additional cost.
Today you return home.
You make your way back to Cairns and connect with your homeward flight.
END OF ARRANGEMENTS
