Mossman Gorge from Port Douglas

When visiting Port Douglas and Tropical North Queensland for your next holiday you need to make sure you make time to visit the fantastic Mossman Gorge Discovery Centre a fantastic Indigenous eco-tourism development, which most tours to Mossman Gorge include time to visit.

Located just 15 km from Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge is a gateway to the Daintree Rainforest and one of the most enriching eco-cultural experiences in Queensland. Whether you're planning a self-guided day trip or looking to explore with a knowledgeable local guide, Mossman Gorge offers a profound blend of Indigenous culture, tropical wilderness, and swimming opportunities.

The Mossman Gorge is the centre of discovering the Daintree Rainforest and is  located only 15 km from the township of Port Douglas. Ideal for families, couples, singles whether as a learning experience or just as a great time to swim and soak up the beauty of the Daintree Rainforest it should be a ‘To Do’ on everyone’s list.  

Explore the range of day trips and extended tours that include Mossman Gorge within their itinerary.  

What To Expect At Mossman Gorge

• Freshwater swimming in rainforest-fed streams (please note safety guidelines swimming at Mossman Gorge)
• Scenic boardwalks and suspension bridges through ancient rainforest
• Cultural connection to Kuku Yalanji Country
• Options for both guided and self-guided rainforest exploration
• Luxury accommodation options on-site or nearby in Port Douglas

Guided Mossman Gorge Tours
Guided tours offer a rich, immersive experience ideal for visitors who want to go beyond sightseeing. These tours are run by local Aboriginal guides or eco-accredited tour operators and are available as half-day, full-day, or private charter options.

Mossman Gorge is an amazing cultural centre that combines beautifully the aboriginal culture with the majesty of the rainforest. Welcome to Kuku Yalanji Country. The aboriginal heritage here dates back 50,000 years to man’s earliest occupation of Australia. In this Wet Tropics World Heritage Area there are 18 Rainforest Aboriginal tribal groups, with the Traditional Owners being the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people.

Half Day & Full Day Mossman Gorge Tours
Many Port Douglas-based operators offer Half Day Tours that include Mossman Gorge as a highlight.

Mossman Gorge Day Tours Popular inclusions:
- Return hotel transfers from Port Douglas or Cairns
- Guided boardwalk walk in Mossman Gorge
- Visit to Daintree River or Cape Tribulation
- Morning tea and/or lunch
- Wildlife spotting (some offer Daintree River Cruise), beach walks, optional ferry crossing

Dreamtime Walk - Kuku Yalanji Cultural Tour
Be taken by an Aboriginal guide on a Dreamtime Walk Tour through the Daintree Rainforest. This will bring the Daintree Rainforest movingly alive to you and you will see it in a totally different light. You will learn how people survived living off the plants and trees of the land for food, fishing, medicine and tools. Speak to ancient aboriginal spirits and daub on body paint that has been made from the leaves of forest plants. Learn first-hand from the Kuku Yalanji people how their history is steeped in the roots of the trees, the paintings on the walls of their caves to the backdrop of the mountains behind.

If you wish you can explore the Mossman Gorge without a tour guide which is a highly educational experience for everyone to enjoy, a fascinating experience.  With well laid out circular walks it’s easy to find your way around the Mossman Gorge boardwalks thru the rainforest. Remember to take your towel and swimming costume for an amazing swim at the end in the iconic picture postcard swimming hole.  Just be aware that depending on the seasons, the river in rainy season can be too fast for swimming in unless you stay close to the shore. Discover the range of day trips and extended tours that include Mossman Gorge within the tours.

Private Charter 4WD Tours
A Private 4WD tour is perfect for small groups or families seeking a personalised experience.  You can choose from a half day private tour, full  day private tours, or an extended, multi day charter including further destinations such as Cooktown and Atherton Tablelands.

Features:
- Flexible itinerary including Mossman Gorge and other rainforest highlights
- Private vehicle and dedicated guide
- Customised timing, pace, and inclusions
- Optional Indigenous cultural activities, picnics, and wildlife stops

Mossman Gorge Accommodation
Why not immerse yourself in the natural beauty and stay a few nights.  Located on the banks of the Mossman River, Silky Oaks Rainforest Lodge offers an immersive rainforest experience where you can reconnect with nature whilst still enjoying luxury accommodation, gourmet dining and award winning day spa.  Alternatively, Port Douglas is only a short 10-15 minute drive. 

For special interest groups, families you may also book a private charter Mossman Gorge and Daintree Rainforest four wheel drive tour with and eco accredited tour guide.  Ensure to contact our local holiday specialists to arrange your holiday to Tropical North Queensland.