With a mantra to inspire environmentally sustainable and culturally responsible tourism, Ecotourism Australia has many 'green' recommendations for a family vacation Down Under. The organization was established in 1991 and has been steadfast in its efforts to foster an ecotourism culture around the country. To date, they have listed approximately 500 accredited businesses. A number of these are located in the northeast state of Queensland, offering environmentally conscious travelers a quintessential Australian holiday with less impact on the planet.
Daintree Rainforest
The 'sunshine state,' as it's called, presents the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world. To access the Daintree region, fly into the city of Cairns and in one hour's drive you'll find majestic rivers, secluded beaches and a plethora of activities that appeal to all family members. There is no public transport to or from the Daintree, so hiring a car or arranging a privately-run bus transfer will be the most convenient ways to travel. With Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation and Port Douglas close by, a real Aussie adventure can be experienced on holiday in Queensland.
Image via Wikipedia
River Cruise
Cruise along waterways of the Daintree River on a quiet, solarelectric boat. This one-hour Solar Whisper cruise (solarwhisper.com) will have you at the ready to spot saltwater crocodiles, along with a range of other Australian wildlife and birds hiding in the jungle.
Image via Wikipedia
Jungle Surf
This must-do activity will have you flying from tree to tree in one of the most biologically-diverse rainforests on the planet. A jungle-surfing adventure with Tree Hugger Travel (treehuggertravel.com.au) will elevate you up to 20 meters above the ground, gliding through the rainforest canopy. With a series of ecofriendly platforms among the trees, and a flying fox zipline, this exhilarating experience takes you to the heart of the Daintree. Along the way, experts will reveal insights into the flora, fauna and history of this famous region.
Great Barrier Reef
Book yourself a sailing and snorkeling voyage out to the Great Barrier Reef with Sailaway Port Douglas (sailawayportdouglas.com). With conservation at the forefront of their endeavors, you'll sail through turquoise waters on a 100 percent carbon neutral catamaran. As you explore one of Australia's most iconic sites, a qualified marine biologist will guide you on a snorkeling tour and impart knowledge about protecting the reef and surrounding areas.
Image via Wikipedia
Eco Accommodation
What better way to complement your eco-friendly activities than staying in a hotel where sustainability is their core ethos. Nestled within the treetops is the Daintree Ecolodge (daintree-ecolodge.com.au), surrounded by lush nature so vivid in color you won't believe your eyes. They serve organic and seasonal cuisine using produce from their onsite vegetable garden and a curated list of regional suppliers. There is no television or Wi-Fi, so a stay here also serves as a digital detox. With solar panels aiding electricity, processes reducing plastic waste and Australian recycling and composting at its best, a stay here will refresh your lungs and heighten your senses.
The Daintree in Numbers
[Cover image via Wikipedia]
