Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature? Do you want to experience the beauty and diversity of one of the world’s oldest rainforests? Do you want to discover the amazing wildlife, waterfalls, and walking tracks that await you in this park? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Lamington National Park is the perfect destination for you.
Lamington National Park is a national park in Queensland, Australia, that covers an area of 206 square kilometres. It is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, which is one of the most extensive areas of subtropical rainforest in the world. The park is famous for its stunning scenery, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. It is also home to two popular resorts, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and Binna Burra Lodge, that offer a range of accommodation and activities for visitors.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about Lamington National Park, such as how to reach it, when to visit it, what to do there, and where to stay. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something to suit your interests and budget. So, get ready to explore this amazing park and have a memorable adventure.
How to Reach Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park is located about 110 kilometres south of Brisbane and 45 kilometres west of the Gold Coast. You can reach the park by car, bus, train, or plane, depending on your preference and budget.
By car:
Driving is the most convenient and flexible way to reach the park, as you can enjoy the scenic views along the way and stop at any point of interest. You can take the Pacific Motorway (M1) from Brisbane or the Gold Coast and exit at Nerang. From there, you can follow the signs to either O’Reilly’s or Binna Burra, depending on which resort you want to visit. The drive from Brisbane takes about two hours, while the drive from the Gold Coast takes about an hour. There are parking spaces available at both resorts, but you may need to pay a fee. Be aware that the roads to the park are narrow, winding, and steep, so drive carefully and watch out for wildlife.
By bus:
Taking a bus is a cheaper and more eco-friendly option than driving, but it may take longer and require more planning. You can take a bus from Brisbane or the Gold Coast to Canungra, which is the nearest town to the park. From there, you can take a shuttle bus to either O’Reilly’s or Binna Burra, which operates daily and costs about $15 per person. You can also book a tour package that includes the bus and shuttle transfers, as well as entry fees and activities. You can find more information and book your tickets online at Lamington National Park Bus Service.
By train:
Taking a train is another option that is faster and more comfortable than a bus, but it may be more expensive and less frequent. You can take a train from Brisbane or the Gold Coast to Nerang, which is the closest railway station to the park. From there, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to either O’Reilly’s or Binna Burra, which takes about 40 minutes and costs about $50 per person. You can also book a tour package that includes the train and shuttle transfers, as well as entry fees and activities. You can find more information and book your tickets online at Queensland Rail Travel.
By plane:
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the park, but it may be the most expensive and least eco-friendly option. You can fly to either Brisbane Airport or Gold Coast Airport, which are the nearest airports to the park. From there, you can take a car, a bus, or a train to the park, as described above. You can also book a flight package that includes the airfare and transfers, as well as entry fees and activities. You can find more information and book your tickets online at Flight Centre.
Best Time to Visit Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park has a subtropical climate, which means that it is warm and humid all year round. However, there are some variations in the weather and seasons that may affect your visit. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best time to visit the park:
Temperature:
The average temperature in the park ranges from 10°C to 25°C, depending on the altitude and season. The warmest months are from December to February, when the temperature can reach up to 30°C. The coolest months are from June to August, when the temperature can drop to 5°C. The temperature difference between day and night can be significant, so make sure to pack layers of clothing and a jacket.
Rainfall:
The average rainfall in the park is about 2000 millimetres per year, which makes it one of the wettest places in Australia. The wettest months are from December to March, when the park receives about 60% of its annual rainfall. The driest months are from June to September, when the park receives about 10% of its annual rainfall. The rainfall can vary greatly from day to day and from place to place, so be prepared for sudden showers and thunderstorms.
Sunshine:
The average sunshine in the park is about 7 hours per day, which is similar to the rest of Queensland. The sunniest months are from September to November, when the park gets about 9 hours of sunshine per day. The cloudiest months are from March to May, when the park gets about 5 hours of sunshine per day. The sunshine can affect the visibility and colour of the scenery, as well as the mood and energy of the visitors.
Seasons:
The seasons in the park are based on the changes in the vegetation and wildlife, rather than the calendar. The spring season is from September to November, when the park is in full bloom with wildflowers and orchids. The summer season is from December to February, when the park is lush and green with ferns and mosses. The autumn season is from March to May, when the park is colourful and vibrant with fungi and berries. The winter season is from June to August, when the park is crisp and clear with frost and mist.
Based on these factors, the best time to visit Lamington National Park depends on your preferences and expectations. If you want to enjoy the warm and sunny weather, the best time is from September to November. If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, the best time is from June to August. If you want to see the waterfalls and the rainforest at their best, the best time is from December to March. If you want to experience the diversity and beauty of the park, any time is a good time.
Tips for Visiting Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park is a wonderful place to visit, but it also requires some planning and preparation to make the most of your trip. Here are some tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience at the park:
Pack wisely:
Lamington National Park is a natural and remote area, so you need to bring everything you need for your visit. Some of the essential items to pack are:
Clothing: Bring comfortable and breathable clothing that suits the weather and the activities you plan to do. Pack layers of clothing and a jacket for the temperature changes. Wear sturdy and waterproof shoes for walking and hiking. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. Wear insect repellent and long sleeves for insect protection.
Water: Bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout your visit. The park has limited drinking water facilities, so you need to carry your own water or a water filter. The recommended amount of water is 2 litres per person per day, or more if you are doing strenuous activities.
Food: Bring enough food to keep your energy levels up during your visit. The park has limited food facilities, so you need to carry your own food or buy it from the resorts. The recommended amount of food is 1.5 kilograms per person per day, or more if you are doing strenuous activities. Choose food that is lightweight, nutritious, and easy to prepare, such as dried fruits, nuts, bars, sandwiches, etc.
Equipment:
Bring the necessary equipment for your visit, depending on the activities you plan to do. Some of the useful equipment to bring are:
Map: Bring a map of the park and the walking tracks, or download it from the park website. A map will help you navigate the park and avoid getting lost or confused.
Camera: Bring a camera to capture the beauty and diversity of the park. A camera will help you document your visit and share it with others. You may also need a tripod, a lens, and a battery for your camera, depending on your preferences and skills.
Binoculars: Bring binoculars to observe the wildlife and the scenery of the park. Binoculars will help you see the details and the colours of the animals and the plants. You may also need a guidebook, a checklist, and a notebook for your binoculars, depending on your interests and knowledge.
Follow the rules:
Lamington National Park is a protected and fragile area, so you need to respect the rules and regulations that apply to the park, such as:
Stay on the marked tracks and trails, and do not venture into the restricted or dangerous areas. This will help you avoid getting lost, injured, or fined, as well as protect the environment and the wildlife from damage and disturbance.
Do not feed or touch the wildlife, and keep a safe distance from them. This will help you avoid harming or upsetting the animals, as well as prevent the spread of diseases and parasites. Remember that the wildlife is wild and unpredictable, and may react aggressively if provoked or threatened.
Do not litter or leave any trace of your visit, and take all your rubbish with you. This will help you keep the park clean and beautiful, as well as protect the wildlife and the water quality from pollution and contamination. Remember that the park is a natural and shared resource, and you are responsible for its conservation and preservation.
Do not light any fires or use any stoves or barbecues, except in the designated areas. This will help you prevent any bushfires or accidents, as well as reduce the risk of smoke and noise. Remember that the park is a fire-prone and sensitive area, and you need to be careful and cautious with any sources of heat or flame.
Things to Do in Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park is a place where you can enjoy a variety of activities and experiences, depending on your interests and abilities. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, education, or inspiration, you will find something to suit your taste and mood. Here are some of the things you can do in the park:
Hiking:
Hiking is one of the most popular and rewarding activities in the park, as you can explore the diverse and scenic landscapes, as well as challenge yourself physically and mentally. The park has over 160 kilometres of walking tracks, ranging from easy to hard, and from short to long. Some of the most famous and recommended tracks are:
Tree Top Walk: This is an easy and short track that takes you to a series of suspension bridges that hang 15 metres above the ground. You can walk among the treetops and enjoy the views of the rainforest canopy and the mountains. You can also climb up to a 30-metre-high observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the park. This track is suitable for all ages and abilities, and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Morans Falls: This is a moderate and medium track that takes you to a spectacular waterfall that plunges 80 metres into a gorge. You can walk along the edge of the cliff and enjoy the views of the valley and the coast. You can also see the remains of an old logging camp and a sawmill that date back to the 1900s. This track is suitable for most ages and abilities, and takes about an hour to complete.
Coomera Circuit: This is a hard and long track that takes you to a series of waterfalls and creeks that flow through the park. You can walk through the rainforest and the open forest, and see the diverse flora and fauna of the park. You can also see the Coomera Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in the park, with a drop of 160 metres. This track is suitable for experienced and fit hikers, and takes about 7 hours to complete.
Wildlife:
Wildlife is one of the most fascinating and attractive aspects of the park, as you can encounter and observe the amazing animals that live in the park. The park has over 190 species of birds, 70 species of mammals, 110 species of reptiles, 40 species of amphibians, and thousands of species of insects. Some of the most iconic and rare wildlife that you can see in the park are:
Birds: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, as you can see a variety of colourful and melodious birds, such as the crimson rosella, the satin bowerbird, the regent bowerbird, the Albert’s lyrebird, the green catbird, the noisy pitta, and the paradise riflebird. You can also see some endangered and endemic birds, such as the glossy black-cockatoo, the Coxen’s fig-parrot, and the Lamington spiny crayfish. The best places to see the birds are the O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, the Binna Burra Lodge, and the walking tracks. The best times to see the birds are early morning and late afternoon, when they are most active and vocal.
Mammals: The park is home to some of the most adorable and elusive mammals, such as the koala, the platypus, the echidna, the wombat, the wallaby, the kangaroo, the possum, the glider, and the bandicoot. You can also see some rare and threatened mammals, such as the spotted-tailed quoll, the long-nosed potoroo, and the Hastings River mouse. The best places to see the mammals are the creeks, the ponds, the campgrounds, and the forest edges. The best times to see the mammals are dusk and dawn, when they are most active and visible.
Reptiles: The park is home to some of the most diverse and impressive reptiles, such as the python, the skink, the gecko, the dragon, the monitor, the turtle, and the frog. You can also see some venomous and dangerous reptiles, such as the red-bellied black snake, the eastern brown snake, and the giant barred frog. The best places to see the reptiles are the rocks, the logs, the leaf litter, and the wetlands. The best times to see the reptiles are warm and sunny days, when they are most active and basking.
Waterfalls:
Waterfalls are one of the most spectacular and refreshing features of the park, as you can admire and enjoy the beauty and power of the water. The park has over 500 waterfalls, ranging from small and gentle to large and thundering. Some of the most famous and stunning waterfalls are:
Elabana Falls: This is a multi-tiered waterfall that cascades over a series of rocks and pools. You can walk to the base of the waterfall and feel the spray and the breeze. You can also swim in the clear and cool water, or relax on the rocks. This waterfall is one of the most photographed and visited in the park, and is accessible from the Box Forest Circuit track. It takes about 3 hours to complete the track, which is moderate in difficulty and 10.9 kilometres in length.
Chalahn Falls: This is a single-drop waterfall that plunges 80 metres into a deep and narrow gorge. You can walk to the lookout point and enjoy the views of the waterfall and the valley. You can also hear the roar and the echo of the water, or see the rainbow and the mist. This waterfall is one of the most dramatic and secluded in the park, and is accessible from the Toolona Creek Circuit track. It takes about 5 hours to complete the track, which is hard in difficulty and 17.4 kilometres in length.
Gwongorella Falls: This is a horsetail waterfall that slides 60 metres down a smooth and steep rock face. You can walk to the edge of the waterfall and feel the thrill and the danger. You can also see the views of the coast and the hinterland, or watch the sunrise and the sunset. This waterfall is one of the most scenic and adventurous in the park, and is accessible from the Gwongorella Falls track. It takes about 2 hours to complete the track, which is easy in difficulty and 4 kilometres in length.
Rainforest:
Rainforest is one of the most ancient and diverse ecosystems of the park, as you can learn and appreciate the nature and culture of the park. The park has two types of rainforest, the subtropical rainforest and the temperate rainforest, which differ in their climate, vegetation, and wildlife. Some of the things you can do in the rainforest are:
Learn: You can learn about the history, ecology, and conservation of the rainforest, as well as the Aboriginal and European heritage of the park. You can join a guided tour, a ranger program, or an interpretive walk, that will teach you about the features and functions of the rainforest, as well as the stories and legends of the park. You can also visit the information centres, the museums, or the libraries, that will provide you with more resources and materials about the park.
Appreciate: You can appreciate the beauty and diversity of the rainforest, as well as the art and culture of the park. You can admire the different types, colours, and shapes of the plants and flowers, such as the palms, the ferns, the orchids, and the fungi. You can also enjoy the different styles, forms, and expressions of the art and culture, such as the paintings, the sculptures, the music, and the dance. You can also participate in some of the festivals, events, or workshops, that will celebrate and showcase the rainforest and the park.
Explore: You can explore the secrets and surprises of the rainforest, as well as the adventure and excitement of the park. You can discover the hidden and mysterious places and creatures of the rainforest, such as the caves, the glow worms, the bats, and the owls. You can also experience the thrill and challenge of the adventure and excitement, such as the zip line, the flying fox, the abseiling, and the rock climbing.
Accommodation in Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxury to budget, and from resort to campground. Whether you are looking for comfort, convenience, or charm, you will find something to suit your needs and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options available in and near the park:
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat:
This is a luxury resort that is located in the Green Mountains section of the park. It offers a range of accommodation options, such as rooms, villas, suites, and lodges, that are spacious, elegant, and comfortable. It also offers a range of facilities and services, such as a spa, a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a library, a gift shop, and a conference centre, that are modern, stylish, and convenient. It also offers a range of activities and experiences, such as a bird feeding, a tree top walk, a wildlife show, a glow worm tour, and a 4WD tour, that are fun, educational, and memorable. The prices, ratings, and reviews of this resort are high, as it is one of the most popular and prestigious resorts in the park. Some of the highlights and benefits of staying at this resort are the views, the activities, the events, and the service.
Binna Burra Lodge:
This is a heritage lodge that is located in the Binna Burra section of the park. It offers a range of accommodation options, such as cabins, campsites, safari tents, and sky lodges, that are cosy, rustic, and charming. It also offers a range of facilities and services, such as a cafe, a shop, a lounge, a library, a playground, and a laundry, that are simple, friendly, and convenient. It also offers a range of activities and experiences, such as a guided walk, a yoga session, a massage, a cooking class, and a stargazing night, that are relaxing, rejuvenating, and inspiring. The prices, ratings, and reviews of this lodge are moderate, as it is one of the most historic and authentic lodges in the park. Some of the highlights and benefits of staying at this lodge are the history, the culture, the community, and the atmosphere.
Other options:
There are some other accommodation options available near the park, such as the campgrounds, the motels, the hotels, and the bed and breakfasts, that cater to different tastes and budgets. Some of the pros and cons of these options are the location, the cost, the comfort, and the availability.
Lamington National Park is a place where you can have a wonderful and unforgettable adventure. You can reach the park by different modes of transport, depending on your preference and budget. You can visit the park at any time of the year, depending on your expectations and weather. You can do a lot of things in the park, such as hiking, wildlife watching, waterfall viewing, and rainforest learning. You can stay at different places in and near the park, such as O’Reilly’s, Binna Burra, or other options.
Lamington National Park is a place where you can experience the beauty and diversity of one of the world’s oldest rainforests. It is also a place where you can learn and appreciate the nature and culture of the park. It is also a place where you can explore and discover the secrets and surprises of the park. It is also a place where you can relax and enjoy the comfort and convenience of the park.
Lamington National Park is a place where you can have a World Heritage Rainforest Adventure.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip now and get ready to have a memorable and amazing experience. And if you want to read more articles like this, visit Tripoto, the world’s largest travel community.
