We drove onto the ferry to cross into an ancient forest – the oldest tropical forest in the world.  We felt a little under-prepared given the trucks around us with roo bars and exhaust pipes extending above the cabs. I expected to see Mad Max behind the wheel of one of these monsters.

Winding our way along curvy, narrow roads into the hills, the vegetation grew taller and thicker with each kilometer.  Layers of species of various hues and textures created a tapestry of foliage.

Yet danger lurks in the heart of darkness and along the bright lagoons:

So despite the idyllic conditions you need to stay on the alert or some creature from a deep lagoon may snatch you for lunch.

During our lunch break at Whet Cafe Bar [Lot 1 Cape Tribulation Rd, Cape Tribulation], a cassowary walked by. From out front row seats on the porch, I thought it was a pet trained to entertain the tourists.  But no, this was a wild critter moving quickly out of ancient times.  Known to be dangerous with a killer talon, she was given a respectable distance as I grabbed what shots I dared to on the go.

The food was amazing also.  Order Chicken curry if you head this way.