Journey: Cairns Airport to Daintree

The Daintree rainforest, more commonly referred to just as “Daintree” is part of the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest on the Australian continent. It is around 1200 square kilometres and alongside the infamous Great Barrier Reef, is one of Queensland’s most well-known natural wonders. Access to Daintree is generally made via arrival into Cairns and then driving further north past Mossman. Whilst there is a township sharing the same name, it is extremely small, with a population of only 129 people. Daintree attracts scores of international and domestic visitors each year, with many of them electing to stay in any one of the incredible lodges within the rainforest itself.

Given the distance between Cairns Airport and Daintree, there are only a handful of transportation options to choose from. We recommend opting for a method that will ensure the fastest journey time as well as comfort – a private airport transfer with Hughes. Our airport transfers are priced competitively and offer the highest quality standard on the market, with our fleet of high-end vehicles, and professional chauffeurs.

Our Fleet

Whether you are looking for a luxury limousine or premium sedan experience or want to move a large group easily and in comfort, Hughes can help. We have vehicle options for 1 – 61 passengers and an extensive fleet to accommodate all your transport needs.

Not sure what vehicle’s suit your needs? Contact our friendly team on 1300 615 165 or res@hughes.com.au to discuss your requirements.

Choose your destination

Executive Sedans

Perfect for 1-3 passengers with minimal luggage, our executive sedans are well-appointed for your comfort.

3 Passengers

2 Suitcases

2 Small Bags

Premium Sedans

Perfect for 1-3 passengers with minimal luggage, our premium sedans include the latest prestige models with top of the line features.

3 Passengers

2 Suitcases

2 Small Bags

Premium SUVs

Perfect for 1- 3 passengers with up to 5 suitcases, our premium SUVs include the latest prestige models with top of the line features.

3 Passengers

5 Suitcases

3 Small Bags

People Movers

Perfect for up to 6 passengers with standard luggage, our people movers are luxurious and roomy, with ergonomic design for your comfort.

6 Passengers

6 Suitcases

4 Small Bags

Luxury Minibuses

Perfect for up 9 - 14 passengers with a trailer option for additional luggage, our Mercedes Sprinter minibuses are a luxurious option for groups.

9 - 14 Passengers

Small Coach

Perfect for up 21 - 54 passengers with standard luggage with a trailer option for additional luggage, our air-conditioned, luxury coaches are a great option for larger groups.

21 - 54 Passengers

Journey travel times

Daintree is located approximately 124 kilometres north of Cairns Airport and the journey by car or private transfer can take up to 2 hours and 40 minutes in peak conditions. For those opting to travel via public transport, there is a bus that leaves Cairns Airport with a minimum journey time of around 3 hours and 40 minutes.

Peak Hour Travel Time

  • Airport to Daintree– around 2 hours and 40 minutes
  • Daintree to airport – around 2 and 30 minutes

Off Peak Travel Time

  • Airport to Daintree – around 2 hours and 10 minutes
  • Daintree to airport – around 2 hours and 10 minutes

Cairns Airport

Cairns Airport is located 5.8 kilometres north of Cairns CBD in the suburb of Aeroglen. The airport offers its visitors newly renovated and well-resourced terminals with transit facilities spread across only two passenger terminals located a short 200-meter distance from each other. Terminal 1 houses international flights with has 10 passenger gates and Terminal 2 is for all dedicated domestic flights with 17 passenger gates. In addition to the modern amenities and entertainment options, the airport also offers plenty of kerbside parking bays directly in front of the terminal entrances as well as multiple easily accessible parking options to choose from.

  • T1 long stay Budget Carpark – Access to 20 minutes of free parking
  • T2 short stay covered car park – Premium covered car park with wider car spaces
  • T2 mid to long-term uncovered car park – Access to 20 minutes of free parking

Exploring Daintree

The Daintree rainforest is part of a larger collection of forests known as the Wet Tropics of Queensland and is the oldest surviving rainforest in the world. This ancient ecosystem along with the Daintree River is home to an immense selection of native biodiversity and has become a sought-after natural experience for scores of eager visitors and tourists all year round.t

Driving is recommended for anyone wanting to explore the attractions of the area including the lush rain forest, white sandy beaches, walking tracks, swimming holes and shore fringing reefs. Hughes operates in the Daintree region and surrounding areas and is a reliable and convenient way to see the sites of this stunning rainforest. To make a booking simply download our mobile app, head to our website or give us a call.