Day 65 - Daintree Rainforest

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We spent our first full day in Cairns exploring the Daintree Rainforest and river. For those that don't know, Daintree is considered to be the oldest rainforest in the world and is also the only place in the world where both wet and dry rainforests co-exist in such close proximity

The day started at 7am with a drive up to Port Orchard. We then went on a cruise down the beautiful Daintree river (fyi, its brimming with crocs). Following the cruise we took a walk through the rainforest and got a lesson on all the plants and insects that call it home. We then went to a Kangroo/Wallaby refuge and were able to pet and feed some orphaned marsupials. After lunch we then went for a swim in the Daintree (in the croc free area). Finally we finished the day with beach combing.

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Photos

Drive to Daintree
The sign on the top is to warn drivers about the cassowary bird (similar to the Rhea, Emu, and Ostrich). However, a local has modified the two signs to indicate an oncoming speed hump

Daintree Cruise
Chris's failed attempt to capture an Archer fish in action (they shoot down bugs from the trees by spitting from afar)

Daintree Cruise
The mangrove roots (they come out of water to breath)

Daintree Cruise
A hitch hiker on our cruise

Kangaroo/Wallaby Refuge
Don't tell the Wallabys but the Kangaroo's have much softer hair

Swimming
Should have read the warnings :)

Beach combing
Think the sign says it all. Last one in is a rotten egg!!!

Beach combing
Chris exploring the beach side mangroves a bit further

Comments

[Dave]

So cool!
Tell me you snuck one of those guys home! :) Were they soft?

[Meatless travelers]

We totally wanted to, and if Cheri had her way we would have!! I had to literally pull Cheri away from the fence. One of the ideas Cheri is considering (and only half kidding here) is to open up a baby animal zoo that will now include baby kangaroos and wallabys as well

[Dave]

I see nothing wrong
I see nothing wrong with Cheri's plan. In fact, Andrew and his brother could probably be convinced to go in on it! :D