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Stroll · Cape Tribulation, Queensland
Daintree River
Mangrove-lined river at the edge of the Daintree forest, crossed by a cable ferry, with about one-hour boat tours to observe saltwater crocodiles and birds.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Daintree River
The Daintree River flows from the plateau to the Coral Sea and marks the entrance to the Daintree Rainforest. The road to Cape Tribulation crosses the river by a cable-guided ferry, which carries vehicles and passengers from one bank to the other in a few minutes, throughout the day.
The banks are covered in mangroves and forest, with the range in the background. The river is one of the region’s places to spot the saltwater crocodile, which nearly disappeared due to hunting and has increased again since protection measures. Kingfishers, herons and other birds are also common.
Boat tours last about an hour, with a guide, and depart from two areas: the village of Daintree, upriver, more popular for birdwatching, and a jetty near the ferry, downriver. The village of Daintree, with a café, visitor information centre and old houses, is about 13 km from the ferry.
No one should enter the water or stand at the river’s edge except in designated places.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour by boat; allow extra time for the village of Daintree.
Best time
In the dry season and on cooler days, crocodiles are more often visible along the banks, basking in the sun. Early morning brings more birds.
How to get there
Via Captain Cook Highway and Mossman–Daintree Road, about 45 km from Port Douglas to the ferry. The village of Daintree is about 13 km from the ferry.
Tip
Take the boat tour on the way in, before the ferry, to keep your afternoon free in Cape Tribulation. Bring insect repellent and a hat.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Daintree River
How does the Daintree River ferry work?
It is a cable-guided ferry that carries vehicles and passengers across the river, with crossings throughout the day. Payment is per vehicle; check the current rates.
Can you see crocodiles in the Daintree River?
Saltwater crocodiles are commonly seen along the banks, especially on cool sunny days, but sightings are not guaranteed. Boat tours last about an hour.
Where do the boats on the Daintree River depart from?
From the village of Daintree, upriver, and from a jetty near the ferry, downriver.