Day Thirteen - Mossman Gorge, Baby Crocs, and Cape Trib
Mossman Gorge, located in the Daintree Rainforest, was part of the natural habitat of the Kuku Yalanji. It is noted for its crystal clear water cascading over large granite boulders. There are two large walking tracks, one taking about 10 minutes and the other roughly an hour. I walked each of them and enjoyed the scenery. Swimming in the natural rock pools is common and popular. I declined that experience, though.
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(Click to Enlarge)Continuing into the small town of Daintree, I booked a tour on the Daintree River to look for some crocodiles. The crocs were shy this day, however, and we managed to find only one baby. I ran into a girl from Sydney and her friend from Serbia and speaking to them turned out to be the highlight of the trip. I had much better luck in Costa Rica.
The only way to cross the river by car is via the ferry. For $20 AUD, you get a ride each way, and it's a very quick journey. Once on the other side, I was bound for Cape Tribulation, where the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest meet. I drove for an hour or so and the roads were getting rougher and narrower as I went. I was somewhat concerned about my small rental car, but I was determined to reach the cape. Eventually I came to a large flooded area and could go no further. It was right then I noticed the people from Sydney and Serbia also turning around. It seems we had both driven right by the turnoff for Cape Trib. On the proper route once again, I arrive at the cape and hiked along the beach and into the rainforest. On a sunny day, the cape and beach are quite a site. Today was not so sunny.
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(Click to Enlarge)Returning to Port Douglas, I found a nice outdoor cafe that served Thai prawn pizza and enjoyed a few beers.
