Daintree & Mossman Gorge: River Cruise, Rainforest Walk & Pickup

Summary

Wildlife spotting on the Daintree River then rainforest walks at Mossman Gorge

You’ll drift down the Daintree River watching for crocodiles and birds before sharing lamingtons over morning tea with your group. Then wander Mossman Gorge’s rainforest boardwalk with a local guide who knows every plant by name — maybe even dip your toes in the cool stream if you’re brave enough.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t know what to expect from a morning out in the Daintree — honestly, I just wanted to see if those crocodile stories were true. The drive up from Port Douglas was all misty green and winding roads. Our guide, Tom, kept pointing out things I’d never have noticed (like a tree that smelled faintly of licorice when you crushed its leaves — I tried it, and yep, he wasn’t lying). There was this sleepy quiet along the Captain Cook Highway that made me feel like we were sneaking into somewhere secret, even though it’s not really a secret at all.

The Daintree River cruise was slow and kind of hypnotic. Birds darted between mangroves and someone up front gasped when we spotted our first croc — just this rough shape gliding under the surface. I remember the air felt thick but not hot yet, kind of earthy with a hint of salt. Tom told us stories about the river’s moods and how locals read the water for signs. At one point he pointed out a snake curled around a branch; I almost missed it because my brain kept thinking “stick.”

Afterwards, we sat together for morning tea — lamingtons so soft they left coconut on my fingers (I probably ate three without meaning to) and strong tea that tasted better than usual after being outside. The group got chatty then, swapping guesses about which animal would show up next or who’d actually swim later. It felt easy in that moment, like everyone was just glad to be there.

Mossman Gorge hit different — brighter somehow, with light flickering through giant leaves overhead. The boardwalk made everything feel close but safe. Tom explained which plants you could touch and which you shouldn’t (I still can’t pronounce half their names). Some folks dipped into the stream — freezing but clear as glass. I just watched them splash around under all that green and thought about how old this place must be. Still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in city noise.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Daintree River cruise and Mossman Gorge walk

• Drive along Captain Cook Highway
• Board Daintree River wildlife cruise
• Enjoy morning tea with Lamingtons
• Walk Mossman Gorge boardwalk
• Swim in rainforest stream (weather permitting)

Top questions

How long is the Daintree & Mossman Gorge tour from Port Douglas?

This is a half-day tour suitable for travelers short on time.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Port Douglas accommodation is included.

What wildlife might I see during the Daintree River cruise?

You may spot estuarine crocodiles, snakes, birds, frogs, and more along the river.

Can I swim at Mossman Gorge during this tour?

Yes, swimming in the crystal-clear rainforest stream at Mossman Gorge is possible depending on weather conditions.

Is morning tea provided on this tour?

Yes, morning tea with lamingtons and tea or coffee is included after the river cruise.

How difficult is the walk at Mossman Gorge?

The walk is an easy 500m return along mostly elevated boardwalks.

Are entry fees included in this day trip?

All entry and national park fees are covered as part of your booking.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the experience.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels due to easy walking paths.

What’s included

Your morning includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Port Douglas, all entry fees for both Daintree River and Mossman Gorge walks, plus a proper Aussie morning tea with lamingtons before heading back around lunchtime.