Daintree Special - Cassowary Falls

Words by Jamie Jansen

Just beyond the quiet charm of Daintree Village lies one of the region’s best-kept secrets. 
Nestled in the foothills and surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest, Cassowary Falls is more than just a waterfall. It’s an adventure, a peaceful retreat, and a window into one of the planet’s oldest living ecosystems. This secluded paradise, only accessible by guided tour or a stay in a private chalet, leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve dried off from its crystal-clear waters.

Getting to the waterfall is an adventure in itself. Each small-group tour (maximum 20 guests) begins with an exciting ATV or army truck ride across rolling hills, winding deeper into the rainforest. The 260-acre property shifts from towering rainforest mountains to open fields, and Bruce, the guide, an arborist with a passion for nature, keeps things lively and informative. He shares his deep knowledge of native plants, local wildlife, and the land’s regeneration efforts as you travel.

The journey continues across creeks and rivers, with Bruce occasionally picking up speed and sending waves splashing over the sides like a rainforest rollercoaster. Families with kids will love the action, while older guests can take things at a slower pace, with more time to absorb the surroundings. Along the way, Bruce makes a few stops to point out interesting features of the landscape, and as the ride continues through the rugged terrain, the views become more and more spectacular. Then, as you round the final bend, a majestic waterfall comes into sight, tumbling over smooth granite into a cool, clear pool.

Cassowary Falls is everything a rainforest waterfall should be: Untouched, secluded, and full of life. Mossy rocks, native grasses, and towering King Ferns surround the pool, creating a lush, natural oasis. 

Beneath the clear water, freshwater turtles and jungle perch swim. The crystal-clear water makes it easy to spot the fish swimming below, and bringing a snorkel is a great idea for those who want a closer look. Cool and refreshing, the pool is perfect for wading in before swimming across to stand beneath the cascading falls. Nearby rivers are home to frogs, water dragons, and lizards, while butterflies flutter through the trees. The Daintree is alive, and this is a place to slow down and take it all in.

A stay in the jungle

For those wanting to spend more time in this incredible landscape, Cassowary Falls offers three private chalets, each with its own shaded spa and private deck, perfect for soaking in the serenity while gazing out over the rainforest-cloaked mountains.

Set high on the hillside, each chalet is thoughtfully positioned to maximise privacy, views, and connection to nature, overlooking the lush World Heritage-listed rainforest with the dramatic backdrop of Thornton Peak.

Ideal for couples or solo travellers, the fully self-contained chalets blend comfort and style. Built in classic Queenslander fashion, they feature high-end furnishings, a fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances, and plenty of space to relax.

Large glass doors open onto a balcony where cool valley breezes flow through. The gardens are filled with native flowering plants and fruit trees like pomelo and lime, which provide fresh produce for guests and attract birds, butterflies, and curious possums. From your deck, you might even spot the elusive cassowary wandering through the rainforest below.
In the mornings, you’ll wake to birdsong and the gentle rustling of the trees. Enjoy a coffee on your deck as the jungle wakes up around you, or treat yourself to a hot English breakfast, delivered to your door by Liz, the co-owner and chef.

A passion project

Owners Andy and Liz have poured their hearts into this stunning property, turning it into the peaceful rainforest retreat it is today.

The couple left behind their dairy farm in Western Australia in search of a new life in the tropics. What they found was a stunning place they could help restore.

Originally a cattle farm, the property still runs a small herd, but Andy and Liz have shifted their focus to rainforest regeneration. They’re passionate about bringing back native vegetation, removing non-native trees, and helping the rainforest thrive again.

Wanting to share the beauty of the land with others, they began transforming the original chalets, once simple cabins surrounded by eucalypts, into private rainforest retreats. Clearing the non-native trees allowed the natural landscape to shine, and the cabins evolved into the peaceful, comfortable escapes visitors enjoy today.