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River Drift Rainforest Experience

from A$155
2 hours
Port Douglas
4+

Experience a unique blend of hiking and river floating through the lush Mossman River rainforest, just north of Port Douglas. Learn about the ecosystem, swim in clear waters, and enjoy both gentle exploration and relaxed drifting in stunning natural surroundings.

Adult $155 | Child (4-14) $115| Family (2 adults & 2 children) $495

Key Highlights

  • Enjoy hiking and river floating in the Mossman River rainforest
  • Discover the unique ecosystem and history of Mossman River
  • Experience both active exploration and relaxed river drifting
  • Complimentary photos and snacks included
  • Convenient pickup and drop off in Port Douglas and Mossman

What’s included

  • Pickup and drop off from Port Douglas and Mossman
  • Boots
  • Complimentary tour photos
  • All safety equipment
  • Trained river guide
  • Snacks

Overview

Immerse yourself in the River Drift Experience on the Mossman River, located just 20 minutes north of Port Douglas. This unique rainforest adventure combines a gentle upstream hike over granite sand and a peaceful float downstream on a river sled.

Learn about the vital role of the Mossman River and its ecosystem as you walk beneath the rainforest canopy. Enjoy refreshing swims in clear waters and soak up the serene beauty of your surroundings.

After the hike, board your river sled and float along a secluded creek before joining the main Mossman River. Experience both the tranquillity of drifting and the fun of active exploration while surrounded by lush rainforest and the soothing sounds of flowing water.

This activity is suitable for guests with reasonable fitness and mobility. Participation requirements include completing a medical questionnaire, being a confident swimmer, and meeting fitness benchmarks. Not suitable for pregnant individuals, those with injuries or limited mobility, or those over 120kg. All adults must be confident swimmers, especially when river levels are high.

Commonly asked questions.

River Drift Snorkelling is a two-hour rainforest adventure on the Mossman River, approximately 20 minutes north of Port Douglas. The experience combines a guided walk through the river and rainforest with floating downstream on a river sled.
The river experience itself is approximately two hours, while the complete experience from Port Douglas, including transfers, takes around 3.5 hours.
Yes. Participants need to be comfortable in the water and able to swim. The experience involves moving through the river and floating downstream, so a reasonable level of water confidence is essential.
Yes, the minimum age is 4 years under normal river conditions. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and children under seven must wear a provided life jacket. When river levels are higher and flows are faster, the experience may only be suitable for strong swimmers aged around 14 and over.
A river sled is a specially designed floating device that you use to float and steer your way downstream. Each guest is provided with their own sled, which weighs approximately 3kg
The Mossman River and surrounding rainforest support a variety of wildlife. Depending on conditions, you may see freshwater fish, turtles and other aquatic life, as well as rainforest plants and animals during the walk. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
The tour provides a river sled, wetsuit, river boots and experienced river-trained guides. Transfers from Port Douglas and Mossman are also included, along with light snacks after the experience.
Bring swimwear, a towel and comfortable footwear. The operator recommends wearing your swimwear underneath your clothes because there are no change rooms at the river. A waterproof camera can also be brought at your own risk.
Yes. The operator recommends a maximum participant weight of 110kg (243lb) because of the limitations of the river equipment.

Additional info by the operator.

Guest Requirements:
  • Participants must complete a medical questionnaire and liability release form.
  • All adults must be confident swimmers and comfortable in moving water. Some flexibility applies when river levels are low; contact the operator to confirm.
  • Not suitable for individuals with limited mobility, injuries, or during pregnancy.
  • Maximum recommended weight limit is 120kg (264lb). Good fitness is required if near this weight limit.
  • Participants should be able to walk for 20 minutes without resting, paddle on their stomach, walk up inclines, swim/dog paddle 15m, climb up to exit the river, and stand up from the ground unaided.
What to Bring:
  • Swim shorts and recommended swim shirt
  • Towel
  • Waterproof camera
  • Personal medications
Cancellation Policy:
  • Cancellations outside 72 hours: no charge
  • Cancellations 48-72 hours before departure: 50% charge
  • Less than 48 hours before departure or no-show: 100% charge
  • Date changes free up to 48 hours before departure, subject to availability
  • If a tour is cancelled by the operator due to weather, a full refund will be issued