Where is Gondwana Rainforest?

Listed as a world heritage area, the Gondwana Rainforest is the largest subtropical rainforest and is teeming with Australian Wildlife.

The protected area is known to have remanets of rainforests that dwelled in the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana. A living snapshot of history, this place is crawling with ancient plants and primitive animals.

The Unique Inhabitants

The unique flora and fauna of this rainforest are well worth the journey, with hundreds of different plant and animal species roaming around. It has the highest number of marsupials, frogs, snakes, and birds in all of Australia. As well as having over 200 rare or endangered plant species in the range. The Rainforest has vast links to biological evolution as one of the top places in the world to have so much wildlife which has remained unchanged from their ancestors. With some species as old as 100 million years.

Location

Approximately 370, 000 hectares in size, containing around 40 detached sections between Brisbane and Newcastle. Only a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast, get-up-and-go to this natural paradise. Submerge into the area by car, cruising down the driving route. Stopping off to voyage through the lush greenery along the walking tracks. Or perhaps stay the night amidst the bird calls and ancient ferns at Gondwana Rainforest’s Accommodations.

What to do in Gondwana Rainforest?

• Lamington National Park

  Whether you’re a newbie, a long-time hiker or just stopping through the trails of Lamington National Park is for you. They vary in effort and time, ranging from a light 30minute walk to a 54km long hike. Make sure you take some time to stop at the natural wonders of the park. With over 500 waterfalls scattered within, and an excellent assortment of Australian flora and fauna.

• Springbrook National Park

  Springbrook is another excellent stop on your adventure in Gondwana. A magical place all year round, make sure to lace up those walking shoes and pack your swimsuit for a day of fun. Easy to hard hikes with incredible attractions along the way. Including the stunning cascading waters of Purling Brook Falls. Hike through the thick bushland of ancient lepidozamias, colourful flowers, and massive ferns until you reach the Springbrook Plateau. The stunning views of the thundering waters and lush forest terrain. Another incredible attraction worth visiting is the Natural Arch. A natural rock formation within a creek cave, formed by the weather and waterfall above. Only a short walk through the forest land to reach this picturesque sight.

Related article: The Birds, Animals and Plants of Springbrook Mountain

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.