Queensland’s Tropical North covers all bases
The northern part of Queensland is a World Heritage-listed landscape. It is encircled by both reef and rainforest, making it home to many of Australia's rare plants, birds and animals.
Vastly unchanged for generations, this area is a nature and wildlife lover’s paradise, with more than a few nods in the direction of cultural and culinary excellence. It has something for everyone whether you choose hiking, adventure activities, understanding authentic indigenous history or exploring the land where rainforest, mountains and rivers unite.
Head two hours north of Cairns to Daintree. The world’s oldest tropical rainforest so impressed Sir David Attenborough that he called it “the most extraordinary place on earth”. At Cape Tribulation, the journey is almost as impressive as the destination where the rainforest blends into the reef and two World Heritage sites meet. Keep your eyes open around here for saltwater crocodile and the stunning yet elusive southern cassowary. It may be flightless but it’s quick-footed so sightings are rare – even though it can stand at up to two metres tall. Have a swim in the clear waters of Mossman Gorge after an insightful tour on this ancient Aboriginal land.
It’s also worth taking a day trip or a weekend visit to Kuranda. This village in the rainforest offers arts and crafts markets, koala encounters, river cruises and Australia’s unique café culture. The Atherton Tablelands have a host of natural wonders to take your breath away. The waterfalls here are spectacular and just as interesting are the Undara Lava Tubes at Mount Surprise, caves that were formed through volcanic movement.