Things to do
Look for migrating humpback whales.
Photo credit: Queensland Government
Guided tours and talks
Guided tours throughout Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park (CYPAL) are provided by commercial tour operators. For more information see the tourism information links.
Walking
There are a variety of walks at Cape Tribulation. For more information see Journeys.
Picnic and day use areas
There are picnic areas at Jindalba, Dubuji and Kulki. All three sites have toilets and picnic tables.
Boating and fishing
Marine waters adjacent to Daintree National Park (CYPAL) are internationally significant and are protected in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Zones in the two marine parks—the Great Barrier Reef Coast and Great Barrier Reef—provide a balanced approach to protecting the marine and intertidal environments while allowing recreational and commercial use. Check zoning information and maps before entering or conducting any activities in the marine parks.
Fishing is permitted in all tidal creeks in Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park (CYPAL) except Cooper Creek, where fishing is prohibited Fisheries regulations apply—information on bag and size limits, restricted species and seasonal closures is available from Fisheries Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Dangerous stinging jellyfish (‘stingers’) may be present in the coastal waters at any time, but occur more frequently in the warmer months. If you do enter the water, a full-body lycra suit or equivalent may provide a good measure of protection against stinging jellyfish and sunburn. Remember to be croc wise in croc country. Visit marine stingers for the latest safety and first aid information.
Viewing wildlife
Most of the world's 19 primitive plant families are found in Daintree National Park (CYPAL) and the surrounding area. A number of very rare plants can be seen in Cape Tribulation.
The park is also home to many near threatened and endangered animals including, Bennett's tree-kangaroos, Daintree River ringtail possums and southern cassowaries. Some birds migrate to the area from New Guinea in summer to breed. These include buff-breasted paradise-kingfishers, with their very long tails, and pied imperial-pigeons, which arrive in large flocks.
During the winter months, migrating humpback whales are often seen from the beaches.
- See the description of the park's natural environment for more details about Cape Tribulation's diverse wildlife.
Other things to do
A stop at Walu Wugirriga (Mount Alexandra lookout), about 5km north of the Daintree River, provides breathtaking views of the coast including the Daintree River mouth, Snapper Island and Low Isles.
To find out more about Eastern Kuku Yalanji culture, contact Kuku Yalanji Dreamtime (Mossman) on (07) 4098 2595, Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours (Cooya Beach) on (07) 4098 3437, or Walker Family Tours (Wujal Wujal) on (07) 4060 8069.