Getting to
Daintree Siesta

in the heart of the ancient Daintree Rainforest

Access to the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation (north of the Daintree River) is Fully Restored as at 14 March 2026

Daintree Siesta is located north of the Daintree River, in the heart of the ancient Daintree Rainforest in Tropical North Queensland.

Reaching us is part of the experience — a scenic coastal drive followed by a short car ferry crossing the Daintree River into one of Australia’s most remarkable landscapes.

Take your time, enjoy the views, and allow the journey to become part of your stay.

 

Distances to Daintree Siesta

Cairns: approx. 2.5 hours drive

Port Douglas: approx. 1 hour 15 min drive

Daintree River Ferry: less than 30 minutes drive

Cape Tribulation: approx. 30 minutes drive north

 


Important travel tips

  • The road from the ferry to Daintree Siesta is fully sealed
  • Allow extra time during peak holiday periods for ferry wait times
  • There are no major supermarkets north of the river — Mossman is the best place to stock up
  • There are no dump points north of the river for caravans
  • Mobile reception can be limited in parts of the rainforest

Directions to our UNIQUE RAINFOREST PLACE

 

Once you arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest we are centrally located to all attractions on the north side of the Daintree River between the ferry and Cape Tribulation – only half an hour north of the car ferry and half an hour south of Cape Tribulation on fully sealed road.

There are only two ways to reach us by road. Both of which include their own adventure

Daintree River Ferry

North from Cairns via
the Daintree River car Ferry

The journey north

The drive from Cairns follows the spectacular coastal road past Port Douglas and Mossman before reaching the Daintree River.

Along the way, you may like to stop at:

  • Ellis Beach
  • Rex Lookout
  • Port Douglas – especially for the Sunday morning markets
  • Mossman Gorge
  • Mossman – for groceries and supplies

Once you cross the river, it’s less than a 30-minute drive through the rainforest to reach Daintree Siesta.


Crossing the Daintree River Ferry

The Daintree River Ferry is the only vehicle access into the northern Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation from the south.

The crossing takes just a few minutes and operates continuously throughout the day (from 5am to midnight), delivering you to the rainforest beyond.

You can purchase tickets on arrival or online via the ferry website.

For many visitors, the ferry crossing is a memorable part of the journey – your first step into the Daintree Rainforest.


After the ferry

Once across the Daintree River, follow Cape Tribulation Road north through the forest and across the Alexanfra Range.

We are located approximately 30 minutes from the ferry, on a fully sealed road, and centrally located between the ferry and Cape Tribulation.

Bloomfield Track 4wd

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book the Daintree River Ferry?
No booking is required — tickets can be purchased on arrival or online. During busy periods, short wait times may apply.

How long does it take to get to Daintree Siesta?
Approximately 2.5 hours from Cairns and just over 1 hour from Port Douglas, including the ferry crossing.

Is the road sealed?

Yes, the road from the ferry to Daintree Siesta is fully sealed.

South from Cooktown via
the Bloomfield Track (4WD Only)

For those travelling from Cooktown, access is also possible via the Bloomfield Track (4WD only).

This route is not recommended for towing and is suited to experienced drivers only. Conditions may vary depending on weather and road conditions.

Alternatively you can drive the sealed inland road south from Cooktown and turn left just before Mt Molloy to drive down to Mossman through Julatten and then north to the Daintree River Car Ferry.

Arriving at daintree Siesta

As you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rainforest, with the sounds of birds, insects and the breeze replacing the pace of everyday life.

Take a breath, slow down, and settle into the forest.


Need help planning your journey?

If you have any questions before you travel, feel free to get in touch:

welcome@daintreesiesta.com.au

(07) 4098 9155