Tropical North Queensland is a remarkable region where Australia’s World Heritage-listed areas collide in the spectacular warmth and colour of The Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

If you’re looking to explore the area’s lush natural attractions in style and ease, Silky Oaks Lodge offers a luxury base from which to experience exclusive access to Mossman Gorge, Indigenous cultural walks, diving the Great Barrier Reef and off-the-beaten-track driving safaris to Cape Tribulation. The idyllic riverside location means you’re in great stead for canoeing, river snorkelling or paddling and the team at Silky Oaks Lodge can assist with bookings and arrangements to tailor your ideal stay, whether around special interests, adventure or simply relaxing among the calm of the rainforest and crystal-clear river. Additional charges apply for bespoke experiences, view rates and information here.

The dry season runs from April to November where temperatures tend to hover around the mid-twenties, ranging from 19–30°C making it the best time to visit in many people’s opinion, although the region offers a great holiday at any time of year. The dry season is the best time for ocean adventures as the sea is free of marine stingers during this time and there’s the chance to spot humpback and minke whales as they migrate through Queensland’s warm waters.

Take a look at Silky Oaks Lodge’s 3day sample itinerary inspiration…

Day 1 

Welcome | Embrace the spectacular setting on the winding coastal journey from Cairns along the Great Barrier Reef Drive. Self-drive or opt for a private transfer service (additional charges apply), knowing that a signature welcome drink is waiting upon arrival at the lodge.

Afternoon | Immerse in the sights and sounds of the rainforest with a hike along the Fig Tree Rapids trail. Plunge into the freshwater billabong for a feeling of refreshment only Mother Nature can offer.

Night | Dine among the natural theatre of the rainforest in the Treehouse Restaurant. Local produce and exotic flavours combine to create inspired dishes, kept light and refreshing to compliment the climate.

Day 2 

Morning | Awaken to the heady chorus of the rainforest. Enjoy breakfast in the open-air restaurant overlooking the Mossman River and plan the day’s pursuits, fresh juice or coffee in-hand.

Afternoon | Explore Far North Queensland on a guided Daintree Discovery Tour (additional charges apply). Visit the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, before a cruise on the Daintree River and the possibility of a swim at a local waterfall.

Night | Unwind to the restorative rhythm of the tropics with evening cocktails and canapés served in the bar. Dine at leisure in the Treehouse Restaurant and enjoy a family-style’ selection of shared dishes celebrating the bounty of local, seasonal produce.

Day 3 

Morning | Join a Great Barrier Reef cruise and visit the outer reef in style onboard a high-speed catamaran (additional charges apply). Refuel with lunch on the open water before donning snorkel and fins for a guided snorkelling adventure.

Night | As the sun slips down, enjoy evening cocktails and canapés on the Jungle Perch before dining in the relaxed ambience of the Treehouse Restaurant and savour a four-course table d’hôte menu matched with premium wines.

Day 4 

Morning | Join an early morning yoga class, take a rainforest walk, or plunge into the invigorating Mossman River. Breathe deep the clean, green oxygen and marvel at the oldest living rainforest on the planet.

Farewell | Time for a final breakfast and to take last pictures before returning along the coastal bends to Cairns. For a final rush, depart in style with a helicopter transfer from the Silky Oaks Lodge helipad back to reality (additional charges apply).

Getting there…

Silky Oaks Lodge is 20 minutes’ drive from Port Douglas (22 km) and 60 minutes’ drive north of Cairns Airport (78 km). Cape Tribulation is 68 km north of the lodge.

For rates and packages, visit. Or for further information, visit or download the 3 day itinerary here.