Daintree Eco Lodge, a World Heritage site

Daintree National Park, is the oldest living tropical rainforest, in it's habitat there is also the highest numer of rare or threatened plants, animal species, and approximately 430 species of birds - of which there are 13 species found no where else in the world. The Park consists of two areas which includes the towns of Mossman and Daintree Village.

The rainforest is in a region of "tropical north Queensland" known as the wet zone, as it receives a very large amount of rain, which occurs usually during their summer - the months of January through March. In 1988 the park was named a World Heritage Site.

While some visitors enjoy camping in the Raintree National Park, it is the small family-owned Lodge in the rainforest that attracts most of the visitors. The Daintree Eco Lodge is a unique hideway, with only 15 "Bayans" - houses - nestled amontg the trees. Guests can choose from two types of accommodations - "the Spa Banyan" with it's own jacuzzi on the micro-screened balconies, and the Banyan, which do not have the Jacuzzi. In both types of accommodations guests will have tea and coffee making facilities, air-conditioning and ceiling fans, Tv and CD players and a mini-bar.

The property itself, while providing all the comforts of a boutique retreat, still manages to convey the impression of being at one with nature. Guests will find thwere is an excellent "Wellness Spa", a restaurant, undercover swimming pool with a sun deck - for when the sun gets through, and wireless internet service, for those who must have access to the internet.

After a day spend exploring the Daintree River, and the forest, guests can enjoy a meal in the Jalaymba Restaurant, which overlooks the water lagoon. The restaurant is reached by a boardwalk through the rainforest, and have private dining decks located by the lagoon - wonderful for a romantic dinner; which can consist of native foods used in the preparation of the gourmet meals. The name of the restaurant comes from the local Kuku Yalanji word for Daintgree river.

Of course visitors expect to have many activities, allowing them to explore all the region has to offer. Among the many things for them to do is
a. Experience the majestic Daintree River, on a 1 or 2-hour cruise to see all the wildlife. A good time to take the 2-hour cruise is at sunrise or sunset.
b. Fishing in the river, Local guides will take guests on half-day or all day fishing trips.
c. Horseback riding. Whether through the rainforest, or along the beautifu Wonga Beach.
d. Take a trip via a 4-WD Safari into the rainforest, the rivers, streams, and coastline. Learn about the aborigini culture with local guides of the Kuku Yalanji. The tours can also include hunting along the Coast.

Apart from the tours, guests can venture forth on their own to the ocean for kayaking, snorkeling, or taking to the "Great Barfrier Reef: which lies just off the coastline of Queensland.

Daintrtee Eco Lodge and Rainforest is easily reached from the Cairns International Airport, along the Cook highway. The 90 minutes ride is one of the top scenic drives in the area, past secluded palm fringed beaches, hidden coves,rugged headlands, and shrouded mountains. It is the perfect intgroduction to the arrival at the Daintgree National Park and the Eco Lodge. If renting a car at the airport, it is not necessary yo have one with 4-wheel drive, as there is a sealed road to the Lodge.