4.6 / 5

Cape Tribulation

🗓 Best Time To Visit:May to September, during the dry season.

⏰ Open Hours:Accessible 24 hours, though most activities operate from 8 AM to 5 PM.

🏞 Things To Do:Visit the Daintree Rainforest, snorkeling at Great Barrier Reef, exploring the wildlife, beach activities, and bush walking.

💰 Budget:Free entry to the area, but activities and tours have varying costs.

🧳 Traveller Types:Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, families, and couples.

🔖 Known For:Unique biodiversity with rainforest meeting the reef, pristine beaches, and exotic wildlife.

🚉 Distances:110 km from Cairns Airport, 45 km from Port Douglas.

🐾 Wildlife:Home to unique species like the cassowary, Boyd's forest dragon, and saltwater crocodile.

🌳 Unique Flora:Rich in ancient ferns, orchids, and palms.

📌 Tips:Bring insect repellent, sun protection, and be mindful of stinger season (November to May).

🍴 Local Cuisine:Try exotic fruits at the Daintree Ice Cream Company and local seafood in nearby restaurants.

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Cape Tribulation: A Guide to the Ultimate Rainforest and Reef Adventure

Imagine a place where you can explore the world’s oldest rainforest, snorkel on the world’s largest coral reef, and enjoy the pristine beaches and tropical fruits. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that place exists, and it’s called Cape Tribulation.

Cape Tribulation is a small coastal town in Queensland, Australia, located within the Daintree National Park. It is named after the rocky headland that was discovered by Captain James Cook in 1770, who wrote in his journal: “Here began all our troubles”. Today, however, Cape Tribulation is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, who can experience the unique biodiversity and beauty of two World Heritage Sites: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the best things to do, see, and experience in Cape Tribulation, as well as where to stay and how to get there. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural immersion, Cape Tribulation has something for everyone.

Things to Do in Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are 12 of the best things to do in Cape Tribulation, ordered by relevance and popularity.

1. Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef with Ocean Safari

One of the must-do things in Cape Tribulation is to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest and most diverse coral reef system. Ocean Safari is a locally owned and operated company that offers half-day snorkeling tours to two reef sites: Mackay and Undine Reefs. These reefs are located only 25 minutes away from the shore, and are home to hundreds of species of fish, coral, turtles, rays, and even dolphins.

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Ocean Safari provides you with all the equipment and guidance you need to enjoy the underwater wonderland. You can also learn about the reef ecology and conservation from their friendly and knowledgeable staff. The tour departs twice a day, at 8:30 am and 11:00 am, and lasts for about 2.5 hours. The cost is $159 per person, which includes a courtesy bus transfer from your accommodation. You can book online or at their office in Cape Tribulation.

2. Zip-line through the rainforest with Jungle Surfing

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, you can zip-line through the rainforest canopy with Jungle Surfing. Jungle Surfing is a unique and exhilarating way to experience the Daintree Rainforest, as you glide from tree to tree on a series of flying foxes. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the rainforest, the Coral Sea, and the Great Barrier Reef, while listening to the sounds of the birds and animals.

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Jungle Surfing is suitable for all ages and abilities, as you are securely attached to a harness and guided by professional instructors. The tour consists of six zip-lines, ranging from 37 to 95 meters in length, and five tree platforms, ranging from 7 to 20 meters in height. The tour lasts for about 2 hours, and departs every hour from 7:40 am to 3:40 pm. The cost is $105 per person, which includes a courtesy bus transfer from your accommodation. You can book online or at their office in Cape Tribulation.

3. Visit the Daintree Rainforest with the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk and the Daintree Discovery Centre

The Daintree Rainforest is the world’s oldest rainforest, dating back to over 180 million years. It is also one of the most diverse and complex ecosystems on the planet, hosting thousands of species of plants and animals, many of which are endemic and endangered. To learn more about the rainforest and its inhabitants, you can visit the Daintree Rainforest with the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk and the Daintree Discovery Centre.

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The Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk is a guided walk through the rainforest with the Kuku Yalanji people, the traditional owners of the land. You can learn about their culture, history, and spirituality, as well as their use of the plants and animals for food, medicine, and tools. You can also participate in a traditional smoking ceremony, see a sacred waterfall, and taste some bush tucker. The walk lasts for about 1.5 hours, and departs four times a day, at 9:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. The cost is $67 per person, which includes the entry fee to the Mossman Gorge Centre, where the walk starts. You can book online or at the centre.

The Daintree Discovery Centre is an award-winning eco-tourism attraction that offers a self-guided tour of the rainforest. You can explore the rainforest at different levels, from the forest floor to the canopy, using the aerial walkway, the canopy tower, and the rainforest boardwalk. You can also learn about the rainforest ecology and conservation from the interpretive displays, audio guides, and interactive exhibits. The centre is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. The cost is $35 per person, which includes the entry fee and the audio guide. You can buy your tickets at the centre or online.

4. Horse ride on the beach with Cape Tribulation Horse Rides

Another fun and relaxing way to enjoy the scenery of Cape Tribulation is to horse ride on the beach with Cape Tribulation Horse Rides. Cape Tribulation Horse Rides is a family-run business that offers horse riding tours for all levels of riders, from beginners to experienced. You can ride along the stunning Cape Tribulation Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef, and enjoy the views of the mountains, the ocean, and the wildlife.

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Cape Tribulation Horse Rides provides you with all the equipment and instruction you need to have a safe and enjoyable ride. You can also choose from different types of horses, from gentle to spirited, depending on your preference. The tour lasts for about 2 hours, and departs twice a day, at 8:00 am and 2:30 pm. The cost is $110 per person, which includes a courtesy bus transfer from your accommodation. You can book online or at their office in Cape Tribulation.

5. Eat tropical fruits and ice cream at the Daintree Ice Cream Company

After a day of adventure, you can treat yourself to some delicious tropical fruits and ice cream at the Daintree Ice Cream Company. The Daintree Ice Cream Company is a local institution that grows and makes its own ice cream from exotic fruits, such as soursop, jackfruit, wattleseed, and black sapote. You can sample four different flavours of ice cream in a cup, and enjoy them in the beautiful orchard setting.

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The Daintree Ice Cream Company also offers a self-guided tour of the orchard, where you can see and learn about the different fruits and plants that they grow. You can also buy some fresh fruits, jams, and souvenirs from their shop. The Daintree Ice Cream Company is open daily from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm. The cost of the ice cream cup is $8 per person, and the tour is free. You can pay by cash or card at the shop.

6. Cruise on the Daintree River and spot wildlife

The Daintree River is a majestic river that flows through the rainforest and into the sea. It is also a habitat for a variety of wildlife, such as crocodiles, birds, snakes, frogs, and fish. To see and learn about the wildlife, you can cruise on the Daintree River with one of the many operators that offer different types of tours, such as wildlife cruises, fishing trips, sunset cruises, and photography tours.

One of the most popular operators is Solar Whisper, which offers eco-friendly and quiet cruises on a solar-powered boat. You can see the crocodiles in their natural environment, as well as other animals and plants, with the help of the experienced and informative guide. You can also use the “Croc Cam”, a digital video camera with a zoom lens, to get a closer look at the wildlife. The tour lasts for about an hour, and departs every hour from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. The cost is $35 per person, which includes the entry fee to the Daintree River Cruise Centre, where the tour starts. You can book online or at the centre.

7. Drive on the Bloomfield Track and explore the coast

If you have a 4WD vehicle and a sense of adventure, you can drive on the Bloomfield Track and explore the coast north of Cape Tribulation. The Bloomfield Track is a scenic and challenging road that connects Cape Tribulation to Cooktown, passing through the rainforest, the mountains, and the beaches. Along the way, you can stop at various places of interest, such as the Bloomfield Falls, the Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Community, the Black Mountain National Park, and the historic Cooktown.

The Bloomfield Track is about 80 km long, and takes about 3 hours to drive, depending on the road conditions and the stops. The track is suitable for high-clearance 4WD vehicles only, and is not recommended.

8. Stay at the Cape Tribulation Beach House

If you are looking for a place to stay in Cape Tribulation, you can’t go wrong with the Cape Tribulation Beach House. The Cape Tribulation Beach House is a beachfront resort that offers a range of accommodation options, from dorms to cabins, to suit different budgets and needs. You can enjoy the facilities and amenities of the resort, such as the restaurant, bar, pool, and laundry, as well as the access to the activities and tours that they organise.

The Cape Tribulation Beach House is located on the stunning Cape Tribulation Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and relax. You can also walk to the nearby attractions, such as the Cape Tribulation Lookout, the Dubuji Boardwalk, and the Myall Beach. The Cape Tribulation Beach House is open all year round, and the rates vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation. You can book online or by phone.

9. Swim in the crocodile-free waterhole at Mason’s Cafe

One of the challenges of visiting Cape Tribulation is finding a safe place to swim, as the ocean and the river are inhabited by crocodiles and other dangerous creatures. However, there is one place where you can swim without fear: the crocodile-free waterhole at Mason’s Cafe. Mason’s Cafe is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, where you can enjoy a delicious meal, a refreshing drink, and a friendly service.

Mason’s Cafe is also the gateway to the crocodile-free waterhole, which is located behind the cafe. The waterhole is a natural pool that is fed by a clear stream, surrounded by rocks and trees. You can swim, splash, and cool off in the waterhole, and enjoy the views of the rainforest. The waterhole is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the entry is free. You can also rent a tube or a kayak from the cafe for a small fee.

10. Learn about the ancient culture and stories of the Kuku Yalanji people

Cape Tribulation is not only a place of natural beauty, but also a place of cultural significance. It is the ancestral land of the Kuku Yalanji people, the indigenous people who have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years. To learn about their ancient culture and stories, you can join one of the cultural tours that they offer, such as the Walkabout Cultural Adventures, the Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours, or the Bana Yirriji Art and Cultural Centre.

These tours will give you an insight into the Kuku Yalanji way of life, as you learn about their history, language, spirituality, and traditions. You can also experience their connection to the land, as you learn about their use of the plants and animals for food, medicine, and tools. You can also participate in some of their activities, such as fishing, hunting, weaving, painting, and storytelling. These tours are a great way to respect and appreciate the Kuku Yalanji people and their culture, and to support their community.

11. Hike, bike, or 4WD in the Daintree National Park

If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike, bike, or 4WD in the Daintree National Park, and discover the hidden gems of the rainforest. The Daintree National Park is a vast and diverse park that covers over 1,200 square kilometers of land, and offers a range of trails and tracks for different levels of difficulty and duration. You can explore the rainforest on foot, on wheels, or on four wheels, and enjoy the scenery, the wildlife, and the challenges.

Some of the most popular trails and tracks in the Daintree National Park are:

The Dubuji Boardwalk: a 1.2 km loop walk that takes you through the mangroves, the swamp forest, and the fan palms, and leads you to the Myall Beach.

The Mount Sorrow Ridge Trail: a 7 km return walk that takes you to the summit of Mount Sorrow, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the coast and the mountains.

The Emmagen Creek Trail: a 4 km return walk that takes you to the Emmagen Creek, where you can swim in the freshwater pools and see the turtles and fish.

The CREB Track: a 72 km 4WD track that takes you from Daintree Village to Wujal Wujal, passing through the rainforest, the creeks, and the hills.

The Bump Track: a 12 km 4WD or mountain bike track that takes you from Cape Tribulation to Mowbray Valley, passing through the rainforest, the cane fields, and the historic sites.

12. Relax on the isolated beaches and fringing reefs

Last but not least, one of the best things to do in Cape Tribulation is to relax on the isolated beaches and fringing reefs, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the place. Cape Tribulation has some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the world, where you can escape the crowds and the noise, and connect with nature. You can also explore the fringing reefs that lie just offshore, and see the coral and marine life that thrive in the clear water.

Some of the most stunning beaches and fringing reefs in Cape Tribulation are:

Cape Tribulation Beach: the main beach in Cape Tribulation, where you can see the iconic view of the rainforest meeting the reef, and walk to the Cape Tribulation Lookout.

Myall Beach: a long and wide beach that stretches from Cape Tribulation to Cape Kimberley, where you can walk, sunbathe, and relax.

Coconut Beach: a quiet and shady beach that is surrounded by coconut palms, where you can swim, snorkel, and picnic.

Thornton Beach: a scenic and serene beach that is located next to the Daintree Ice Cream Company, where you can swim, snorkel, and indulge.

Noah Beach: a secluded and pristine beach that is located within the Daintree National Park, where you can camp, swim, and snorkel.

Where to Stay in Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation has a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and needs. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cape Tribulation, ordered by relevance and popularity.

Daintree Ecolodge

If you are looking for a luxury eco-friendly lodge, you can stay at the Daintree Ecolodge. The Daintree Ecolodge is a boutique resort that offers 15 treehouses, each with a balcony, a spa bath, and a rainforest view. You can enjoy the facilities and amenities of the resort, such as the spa, the restaurant, and the pool, as well as the access to the activities and tours that they organise.

The Daintree Ecolodge is located in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest, where you can immerse yourself in the nature and culture of the place. You can also visit the private waterfall that is located on the property, and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the place. The Daintree Ecolodge is open all year round, and the rates vary depending on the season and the type of treehouse. You can book online or by phone.

Safari Lodge

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you can stay at the Safari Lodge. The Safari Lodge is a backpacker-friendly resort that offers camping and safari huts, each with a fan, a mosquito net, and a shared bathroom. You can enjoy the facilities and amenities of the resort, such as the pool, the kitchen, and the bar, as well as the access to the activities and tours that they organise.

The Safari Lodge is located on the Cape Tribulation Beach, where you can enjoy the views and the vibes of the place. You can also walk to the nearby attractions, such as the Cape Tribulation Lookout, the Dubuji Boardwalk, and the Jungle Surfing. The Safari Lodge is open all year round, and the rates vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation. You can book online or by phone.

Ferntree Rainforest Lodge

If you are looking for a mid-range option, you can stay at the Ferntree Rainforest Lodge. The Ferntree Rainforest Lodge is a family-friendly resort that offers cabins and dorms, each with air-conditioning, a fridge, and a private or shared bathroom. You can enjoy the facilities and amenities of the resort, such as the pool, the restaurant, and the laundry, as well as the access to the activities and tours that they organise.

The Ferntree Rainforest Lodge is located in the middle of the Daintree Rainforest, where you can experience the lush and lively environment of the place. You can also walk to the nearby attractions, such as the Daintree Discovery Centre, the Ocean Safari, and the Mason’s Cafe. The Ferntree Rainforest Lodge is open all year round, and the rates vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation. You can book online or by phone.

How to Get to Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation is located about 140 km north of Cairns, and about 80 km north of Port Douglas, the nearest towns. There are different ways to get to Cape Tribulation from these locations, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the most common ways to get to Cape Tribulation:

By car

The most convenient and flexible way to get to Cape Tribulation is by car, as you can explore the area at your own pace and stop at the places of interest along the way. You can rent a car from Cairns or Port Douglas, or use your own car if you have one. You will need to drive along the Captain Cook Highway, which is a scenic coastal road that offers stunning views of the ocean and the mountains. You will also need to cross the Daintree River by ferry, which operates daily from 6:00 am to midnight, and costs $31 for a return ticket.

The drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation takes about 2.5 hours, and the drive from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation takes about 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic and the stops. You will also need a 4WD vehicle if you want to drive on the Bloomfield Track or other off-road tracks in the area. You can find more information and maps on the official website of the Daintree Coast.

By bus

The most affordable and eco-friendly way to get to Cape Tribulation is by bus, as you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint. There are several bus companies that offer regular services from Cairns and Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation, such as Trans North, Jungle Tours, and Cape Trib Connections. You can choose from different types of buses, such as express, shuttle, or tour buses, depending on your preference and budget.

The bus from Cairns to Cape Tribulation takes about 3 hours, and the bus from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation takes about 2 hours, depending on the traffic and the stops. The bus fare varies depending on the company and the type of bus, but it usually ranges from $25 to $50 for a one-way ticket. You can book your tickets online or at the bus stations.

By tour

The most convenient and hassle-free way to get to Cape Tribulation is by tour, as you can enjoy the services and amenities of a professional tour operator. There are many tour operators that offer day trips or overnight trips from Cairns and Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation, such as Active Tropics, Discovery Tours, and Down Under Tours. You can choose from different types of tours, such as adventure, nature, or cultural tours, depending on your interest and preference.

The tour from Cairns or Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation usually includes the transportation, the ferry, the accommodation, the meals, and the activities, as well as the guide, the commentary, and the insurance. The tour duration and cost vary depending on the operator and the type of tour, but it usually ranges from 8 to 24 hours and from $150 to $300 per person. You can book your tour online or at the tour offices.

Cape Tribulation is a stunning destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience of the rainforest and the reef. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural immersion, Cape Tribulation has something for everyone. You can enjoy the variety of activities and attractions that Cape Tribulation offers, as well as the scenery, the wildlife, and the culture of the place.

If you are interested in visiting Cape Tribulation, you can book your trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that connects travellers with local experts and experiences. Tripoto can help you plan and customize your trip, as well as provide you with the best deals and offers on accommodation, transportation, and activities. You can also read and share your travel stories, tips, and reviews on Tripoto, and join the community of millions of travellers who love to explore the world.

Thank you for reading this article, and we hope you found it useful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you and help you with your travel needs. Happy travels!

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