This travel guide contains everything you need to know about visiting Mossman Gorge and making the most of your trip.
The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Kuku Yalanji people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Mossman Gorge is located. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
Mossman Gorge, spanning 56,000 hectares within the Daintree National Park, dates back 135 million years.
This stunning tropical rainforest is a fantastic place to explore, swim, and marvel at its ancient nature. With towering tree-covered mountains framing the picturesque riverbanks, the gorge marks the entrance to the Daintree Rainforest.
Here, the crystal-clear waters cascade over ancient granite boulders, while the Kuku Yalanji people warmly welcome visitors to share their culture, stories, and ancestral legends through Mossman Gorge aboriginal tours and walks.
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Visiting Mossman Gorge
The Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, conveniently situated near Port Douglas and Cairns, is easily accessible for visitors seeking a leisurely stroll or a full day of exploration within the rainforest.
Visitors can enjoy a guided Mossman Gorge Indigenous tour or explore independently. They can also browse the art gallery and dine at the Mayi Café.
Where is Mossman Gorge?
Mossman Gorge is located at the southern end of the Daintree Rainforest, a World Heritage-listed rainforest in tropical North Queensland. The area is also a section of the UNESCO Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
The Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre is conveniently situated next to the rainforest entrance.
The gorge is located on Kuku Yalanji land, and you can go on guided tours with the Indigenous community to learn about the region’s cultural significance.
The closest town is Port Douglas, which is around 20km away, and Cairns is around 77 km south. You can access the centre by taking a tour from either location or by self-driving – there is ample parking when you arrive.
Things to do at Mossman Gorge
At Mossman Gorge, visitors can delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Kuku Yalanji people, who have inhabited the Daintree Rainforest for over 50,000 years, through guided walks and tours highlighting traditional uses of plants and herbs in medicine and more.
Additionally, you can explore independently amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, including sparkling waterfalls, lush forests, and towering peaks. Visitors can discover the rainforest through hiking, scenic views, river cruises, and more.
Visit the Mossman Gorge Centre
The Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre is the perfect place to begin your visit. The centre was created as an Indigenous ecotourism development to help enhance visitors’ experience and introduce them to the history and culture of the Mossman Gorge World Heritage Site.
At the Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre, there’s an ingenious art gallery that showcases the arts and crafts of Kuku Yalanji artists. The arts and crafts can be purchased in the gift shop alongside other contemporary items.
The centre also features the Mayi Cafe and Restaurant, an ideal spot for a light snack or meal made with locally sourced produce.
After exploring the centre, plan a guided tour or explore the rainforest on your own. If you choose the latter, the staff at the Mossman Gorge Visitor Information Centre can help you plan your route around the Gorge.
Please note that it’s a 2km walk from the centre to the gorge, which isn’t recommended as it is narrow and potentially dangerous. Fortunately, a shuttle bus runs frequently to take you from the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre to the Gorge.
The shuttle operates every 15 minutes from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week, except on Christmas Day. Single shuttle bus to Mossman Gorge tickets can be used multiple times on the day of purchase. Shuttle bus tickets are $14 per adult, $7 per child (5-15), $35 per family (2A+2C), and kids under 5 are free.
Self-Guided Mossman Gorge walks
A self-guided trail is the ideal option for exploring the World Heritage rainforest at your own pace.
There are a few Mossman Gorge self guided walks to choose from, including:
- Baral Marrajanga (270m) – Passing through the lower forest canopy, this 5-10 minute easy walk takes you to a lookout over the Mossman River and mountain ranges.
- Lower River Track (300m) – a moderate to easy walk that also takes 5-10 minutes, winding along the river with pretty views from several lookouts
- Rex Creek Bridge (460m) – a ten-minute Mossman Gorge walking track to the stunning Rex Creek suspension bridge
- Mossman Gorge Rainforest Circuit track (2.4km return) – from Rex Creek Bridge, you’ll continue past a stunning lookout over Mount Demi before continuing to wind around the rainforest. This popular, easy-moderate walk takes around 45 minutes.
Unless you’re short on time, the Mossman Gorge Rainforest Walk is highly recommended to get a real feel for the rainforest.
When taking a self-guided walk, please remember to respect the land and stick to the paths and signage.
Mossman Gorge Dreamtime Walk
If you have the time, I highly recommend taking one of the Dreamtime Walks. Led by local Indigenous people, these tours involve a guided walk along gentle pathways as you visit culturally significant places, stunning nature, and past traditional shelters.
The tours last approximately 90 minutes and kick off with a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony, which is performed to cleanse the area and ward off bad spirits.
As you wander through lush forests and over cooling streams, your Indigenous guide will show you how native plants are traditionally used in medicine and identify bush food sources. You’ll also learn about traditional bush soaps and ochre painting, which will help guests understand the special relationship between humans and the rainforest.
Following the easy Mossman Gorge hike, the tour winds down with a traditional bush tea and damper as you listen to local stories.
Mossman Gorge River Drift Snorkelling
Connect with the rainforest river on this unique eco-friendly Mossman Gorge snorkelling tour.
Beginning in a secluded enclave of the river, you’ll be provided with the gear required, including a river sled and comfy boots. As the team leads you upstream, you’ll then walk through the rainforest and into the river. Along the way, you’ll learn about the ecosystem and its history.
Next, it’s time to launch on your river sled. It’s easy to navigate down the stunning steam and into the Mossman River. Relax along the gentle current with the rainforest canopy towering above you.
The blissful river drift is one of the unique ways to experience the rainforest and its natural beauty.
Mossman Gorge Opening Hours
The Mossman Gorge opening times are 8 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week excluding Christmas Day.
It’s worth checking opening hours before you visit in case of changes, especially during public holidays.
How to get to Mossman Gorge
Below, we provide driving directions and tips to get to Mossman Gorge.
Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge
To reach Mossman Gorge from Port Douglas, follow the Port Douglas Road, then merge onto the Cook Highway heading towards Mossman. Take the exit at Johnston Rd and Mossman Gorge Rd to reach the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre.
The drive from Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge takes about 22 minutes and is a scenic journey through picturesque tropical landscapes.
Cairns to Mossman Gorge
Opting for a self-drive from Cairns to Mossman Gorge is an excellent choice, offering the chance to experience the renowned Captain Cook Highway. This highway is a highlight of the Great Tropical Drive and is celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views amidst the lush rainforest scenery.
The Cairns to Mossman Gorge self drive typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, allowing ample time to soak in the stunning surroundings along the way.
Palm Cove to Mossman Gorge
The drive from Palm Cove to Mossman Gorge is similar to the Cairns journey above, as you’ll take the Captain Cook Highway for most of the way. Expect this scenic drive to take around 55 minutes.
Mossman Gorge Tours
Organised tours depart from Port Douglas and Cairns each day. Below we’ve provided brief information about the various tours to Mossman Gorge that are available.
Mossman Gorge tours from Port Douglas
It’s easy and convenient to take a Mossman Gorge tour from Port Douglas.
Depending on which Mossman Gorge day tour option you choose, you can spend your day embarking on a Daintree River Cruise to spot crocodiles, looking over the ancient rainforest from the Alexandra Range Lookout, and taking a dip in the crystal-clear Emmagen Creek in the heart of the rainforest.
Most Mossman Gorge trips from Port Douglas also include a stop at Cape Tribulation, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beach and rainforest from Kulki Lookout and discover the World Heritage property of Noah Valley.
Click here to see a range of tours from Port Douglas which include Mossman Gorge.
Mossman Gorge tours from Cairns
On a Mossman Gorge tour from Cairns, you’ll hit the most breathtaking hotspots in Mossman Gorge during your trip.
Highlights may vary depending on which specific tour you book but typically include a guided walk by the local indigenous tribe through the rainforest canopy, a dip in the crystal clear waters of Mossman Gorge, and a one-hour riverboat cruise to spot crocodiles and other wildlife.
Many Mossman Gorge day trips also include a stop at Cape Tribulation, so you can see ‘where the rainforest meets the reef’ from the beach or a breathtaking lookout.
Click here to see a range of tours from Cairns which include Mossman Gorge.
Mossman Gorge frequently asked questions
Do you have another question about visiting Mossman Gorge? Hopefully, you’ll find the information you’re looking for below.
Is Mossman Gorge worth visiting?
Mossman Gorge is definitely worth visiting, as it is both a fantastic natural and cultural attraction. Not only is the gorge one of the best and most convenient ways to experience the ancient Daintree Rainforest, but it also provides a unique introduction to Aboriginal culture.
When you visit Mossman Gorge, you can take a dip in breathtaking swimming holes, enjoy a walk under the canopies, take a river cruise, learn about the Indigenous culture, and more.
Is the Mossman Gorge parking?
Yes, there is ample parking available at Mossman Gorge outside the cultural centre.
Once you have parked your car onsite, there is a Mossman Gorge shuttle bus to take you the last 2km between the Cultural Centre and Mossman Gorge itself.
Is there a Mossman Gorge entry fee?
There is no Mossman Gorge entrance fee. However, as stated above, you will need to pay for the shuttle bus if you don’t wish to walk (which isn’t recommended).
The current shuttle bus to Mossman Gorge costs $14 per adult, $7 per child (5-15), $35 per family (2A+2C) and kids under 5 are free.
Are there crocodiles in Mossman Gorge?
Although the swift currents of Mossman Gorge are typically free of crocodiles, these reptiles are known to inhabit the Daintree Rainforest area. Please exercise caution around wildlife and refrain from approaching any animals you encounter.
The popular swimming spots in Mossman Gorge are considered to be free of saltwater crocodiles; however, staff monitor the area year-round just in case.
Can you swim at Mossman Gorge?
While you may spot people taking a dip to cool off on a hot day, it’s usually not recommended to swim within the picturesque Mossman Gorge Swimming Hole. However, if you choose to swim here, be sure to exercise caution, especially during the rainy season.
Before swimming at Mossman Gorge, it’s best to check with staff at the Cultural Centre before deciding whether to take a dip and remember that doing so is at your own risk.
How long do you need at Mossman Gorge?
While you could take a quick walk around Mossman Gorge in just an hour, you could also spend a few hours if you wanted to explore the centre and take a guided walk or longer self guided hike. The popular Mossman Gorge Indigenous Dreamtime Walk tours take 1.5 hours.
Can you camp at Mossman Gorge?
No, there are no Mossman Gorge camping grounds, so you can’t camp within this section of the Daintree Rainforest. The nearest Mossman Gorge accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts and campgrounds, can be found near the Centre.
ENJOY MOSSMAN GORGE!
Hopefully, this guide has helped you plan your trip to Mossman Gorge in the Daintree.
If you’re planning a trip to Mossman Gorge, I highly recommend you check out our guide to North Queensland, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.
I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.
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