Join award-winning guide Clayton Smith for an unforgettable journey through the Wet Tropics rainforests, targeting the 13 endemic bird species found nowhere else on Earth. With 20 years of field experience and recognition from the Cairns Tourism Association, Clayton brings unparalleled expertise to every expedition.
Meet Your Expert Guide: Clayton Smith
Wildlife and Birding Guide | Cairns Tourism Award Winner
- ✓20 years birding & wildlife guiding in Wet Tropics
- ✓Diploma in Wildlife Management
- ✓Tour Guide Excellence Award (Cairns Tourism Association)
- ✓Fluent in English and German
Clayton brings two decades of intimate knowledge of the Wet Tropics rainforests. His passion for sharing rare endemic species has earned him recognition as one of North Queensland's premier birding guides.
Sustainable Touring Excellence
- ✓Hybrid vehicle technology - minimal environmental impact
- ✓Small groups (maximum 6 guests) - low-impact rainforest access
- ✓Wet Tropics World Heritage certified operations
- ✓Supporting conservation through responsible tourism
Target Species: The 13 Wet Tropics Endemics
Found nowhere else on Earth
Beyond these endemics, tours target the full suite of Australian rainforest specialties, plus bonus wildlife including platypus and owls via optional night spotting.
Multi-Day Birding Expeditions
Our signature 8-day comprehensive expedition targets all 13 endemic species and represents our flagship offering. Shorter custom itineraries available by arrangement. Pricing and detailed itineraries available upon request for April 2026 departures.
What Will Be Included (From April 2026)
Final inclusions will be confirmed with registered participants. Indicative package includes:
Tour Details
Group size: Maximum 6 participants
Optimal season: September - November (breeding season)
Year-round availability: Tours commence April 2026, with year-round scheduling planned
Permit status: Commercial Activity Permit application in progress
What to Expect on Tour
Clayton adapts each day based on weather, recent sightings, and target species behavior. With small group sizes, every participant receives personalised attention.
Strategic Habitat Coverage
Note: We actively seek private property access to guarantee sightings of challenging species. Core endemic habitats can be covered in 1-2 days, with extended tours allowing deeper specialisation, repeat visits to weather-dependent species, and comprehensive photography opportunities. Detailed itineraries provided upon booking.
Is This Tour Right for You?
Ideal For:
- ✓Passionate birders pursuing Australia's most iconic and elusive species
- ✓International visitors from around the world, including our friends from the USA, UK and Germany
- ✓Photographers seeking rare encounters with cassowaries, riflebirds, and other tropical treasures
- ✓Couples and small groups wanting a personalised, expert-guided nature experience
- ✓Travellers who appreciate authentic adventure with a touch of comfort and local insight
Languages available: English (🇦🇺 Australian) and Deutsch (🇩🇪 German)
Join the Launch List
Express Your Interest for 2026 Expeditions
Availability: Launching April 2026
Expressions of Interest: Now accepting for priority booking
Lead Time: 3-6 months advance notice recommended
Cancellation: Standard terms apply (details provided upon booking)
Weather: Rain rarely cancels - Clayton knows dry-weather spots
Before your tour, Clayton will send a questionnaire to understand your birding goals, experience level, and any specific species you're most excited to see. This helps him tailor each expedition for maximum success and enjoyment.
Important: Registering your interest involves no payment and no commitment. You'll simply receive updates and first access to booking when we launch.
"Clayton was our guide and he was brilliant. His knowledge of the rainforest, flora and fauna was top notch."
Jaav
"Clayton is an amazingly knowledgeable guide and just loves showing his guests all of his favorite local spots."
Grant
"We receive quite a bit of feedback about Clayton. He is an amazingly knowledgeable guide."
Australian Luxury Escapes Management
"David is a fantastic tour guide — knowledgeable about history, agriculture and nature."
Thomas Berset
Express interest for April 2026 Launch Updates
No payment required • No commitment • Unsubscribe anytime
Timeline
- Now – March 2026: Accepting expressions of interest while final permit applications are being processed.
- March 2026: Itineraries published and deposits confirmed.
- Early April 2026: Participant details finalised and pre-tour briefings issued.
- April 2026: Tours commence under full permit authorisation.
Questions? Email bookings@kurandatransfers.com.au or call 0497 159 385
Chat on WhatsApp💬Exceptional Safety & Expertise
Expert Guide: Clayton Smith
20+ years guiding experience, Cairns Tourism Association Tour Guide Excellence Award finalist and commendation recipient, Certificate IV Tourism qualification, bilingual English/German.
Registered Nurse Safety Standards
Tours operated by Registered Nurse David with 30 years emergency care experience - unique safety advantage for remote multi-day expeditions
Small Group Focus
Maximum 6 guests ensures personalised attention, optimal sighting opportunities, and enhanced safety protocols