Active Tropics Explorer – Tour Guide Karl
We were in Cairns for a holiday away and decided that a tour was the best way to sea the wonders of the North Coast of Queensland.
Before heading up to Mossman Gorge we participated in a welcome to country smoking ceremony, led by an Aboriginal guide, of the Kuku Yalanju people, who also explained the uses of some local plans and natural ochres. This ceremony was to protect us whilst on our journeys.
The bus then took us up to Mossman George where we walked through the rainforest and had the opportunity to swim in local creeks.
Departing here, we drove through the sugar canes and stopped to go on a crocodile tour. The boat driver was extremely informative and we were lucky enough to see 6 crocodiles on this tour, including a 450 kg called Scarface. On the one hour cruise, it is also possible to see tree snakes and the Ulysses blue butterfly.
The bus then drove up to Cape Tribulation where we had lunch (included on the tour) and walked down the beautiful white beach.
On the Marjja Botanical Boardwalk, we were guided through the rainforest with explanations as to what the specific plants can be used for and also the dangers to be aware of.
On the final part of the trip we were taken to Floravilla, an Ice cream shop to try some of the organic ice cream using natural flavours and no preservatives; mango, honey and yoghurt, guinness. You name it, they have it. I just wanted traditional vanilla and it was smooth and creamy.
The trip then headed back to our hotel with a drive up to Alexandra Range lookout and through Port Douglas.
Karl had been working for the company for a year, mostly doing white water rafting guiding. He was extremely good at this guiding. Very knowledgeable about plants and animals and the area and very explicit in his instruction. He was passionate about his job.
A lovely day out in a small group of 25 with an extremely knowledgeable driver and guide. At $169 per person, it is worth the money spent.