See Platypus in the wild at

Yungaburra

Platypus Viewing Platform, 4434 Gillies Hwy, East Barron, QLD

Open 24 / 7

1 hour

Free

Family friendly

Where to See Platypus in the Wild: Yungaburra, Queensland

Seeing a platypus in the wild is a dream come true for many travellers to Australia. These shy and fascinating monotremes often top wildlife bucket lists—and for good reason. With their duck-like bills, webbed feet, beaver-like tails, and egg-laying abilities, platypus are among the world’s most unique animals.

So elusive are they that early European explorers thought the platypus was a hoax. But this extraordinary native species is very real—and spotting one in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Why Yungaburra Is the Best Place to See Platypus in the Wild

While platypus are famously hard to find, the small heritage village of Yungaburra, located in the Atherton Tablelands of Far North Queensland, is one of the best places in Australia to see platypus in the wild.

The most reliable location is Peterson Creek, where a specially constructed Platypus Viewing Platform offers a quiet, respectful space to observe these shy creatures. The platform is free to access and provides excellent views of the creek without disturbing the local wildlife.

In addition to the platform, you can explore the walking track that follows the creek under the road bridge. This scenic, well-maintained trail gives you a better chance of spotting a platypus swimming, diving, or feeding—especially around dawn and dusk, when they are most active.

Where Is Yungaburra?

Yungaburra is about 70 km (just over an hour’s drive) from Cairns. The drive up to the Tablelands is a scenic one, passing through lush rainforest, crater lakes, and charming country towns.

Tips to Help You See a Platypus in the Wild

Spotting a platypus requires patience, timing, and a little luck. Here are some helpful tips to increase your chances:

  • Be quiet and still – Platypus are easily startled by noise or movement.

  • Arrive early or late – Visit at dawn or dusk, when platypus are most active.

  • Watch the water closely – Look for ripples, bubbles, or a V-shaped wake.

  • Stay for a while – Sometimes it takes 20–30 minutes before one appears.

  • Avoid flash photography – Respect their environment and behaviour.

Other Wildlife Around Yungaburra

Even if you don’t spot a platypus right away, the area around Peterson Creek is rich in native wildlife. Keep an eye out for:

  • Tree kangaroos in the trees near the trail

  • Turtles, water dragons, and various birds

  • A peaceful creekside walk filled with native plants and flowers

Plan Your Visit

  • Location: Peterson Creek, Yungaburra, Queensland

  • Best time to visit: Year-round, but the dry season (May to October) offers clearer water for easier spotting

  • Visit duration: 1–2 hours is ideal for spotting and walking the trail

  • Cost: Free entry; self-guided experience

  • 👉 Visit the Yungaburra Tourism website for up-to-date info and local tips

See platypus in the wild at Yungaburra
Best time for Platypus spotting Queensland

Platypus are generally most active around dawn, dusk and during the night. However, you still may see them at Yungaburra during the middle of the day.

Driving distances

Yungaburra to Cairns – 1 hr 9 min (67.4 km) via State Route 52 and Bruce Hwy/A1

Parking facilities for Yungaburra platypus viewing

There is a small parking area just near the viewing platform.

Official website
What you should bring/wear to see Platypus in the wild

Wear comfortable walking clothes and don’t forget your camera.

Peterson Creek platypus viewing Wheelchair friendly?

There is a section right next to the carpark that is wheelchair friendly. However the walk along the creek in not wheelchair friendly.

More Information

There are several places down by the creek that are perfect for a picnic.

Some tips on spotting Platypus:
* keep noise to a minimum
* best viewing times are dawn and dusk
* watch the surface of the water for bubbles or ripples

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a platypus a mammal? Yes, a platypus is a mammal because it has fur and feeds its young.

Is the platypus poisonous? Yes, the male platypus has a spur (platypus stinger) on their back feet that secretes poison. Platypus poison claws are not life-threatening to humans but can be extremely painful.

Do platypus lay eggs? Yes, the platypus is one of 5 egg laying mammals known as monotremes.

Can you keep platypus as pets? No, they cannot be legally kept as pets in Australia.

 

What to see nearby :

 Things to do in Yungaburra

  • Milla Milla Falls
  • Curtain Fig Tree Yungaburra, Curtain Fig National Park

Things to do in Atherton

  • The Crystal Caves
  • Bat Hospital Visitor Centre
  • The Waterfall Circuit

Yungaburra restaurants :

  • Nick’s Restaurant Yungaburra
  • Yungaburra Whistle Stop Cafe
  • Lake Barrine Tea House

Popular Atherton Tablelands Tours

Boutique Atherton Tablelands Small-Group Food and Wine Tasting Tour from Cairns

  • Full-day food and wine tasting tour of the Atheron Tablelands from Port Douglas

  • Enjoy tours and tastings of wineries, artisan producers, distilleries and coffee plantations

  • Sample a range of local specialties like tropical fruit wines, homemade fudge and dried dragon fruit

  • Spot platypus in their natural environment

  • Travel by comfortable minibus

  • Small group tour ensures a personalized experience.

Atherton Tablelands Rain Forest by Night from Cairns

  • Guided wildlife–spotting tour of Atherton Tablelands rainforest

  • Follow interpretive rainforest walking trails to see native wildlife in their natural environment

  • Look for animals such as the shy platypus, Lumholtz tree kangaroos, and tree frogs

  • Enjoy afternoon tea at Lake Barrine, a natural volcanic crater lake

  • Go platypus spotting at dusk

  • Enjoy dinner at a country restaurant

  • Small-group tour with a maximum of 11 participants provides a more intimate experience

Day Tour to Paronella Park, Lake Barrine and Millaa Millaa Falls

  • Full-day tour of the Atherton Tablelands from Cairns
  • Admire the castle and waterfall of Paronella Park on a guided tour
  • Great-value tour includes hotel pick-up, entrance fees and round-trip transport from Cairns
  • Enjoy your choice between three itineraries

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See platypus in the wild at Yungaburra
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