3 Day Cooktown Tour

3 Day Cooktown Tour

Journey to historical Cooktown through the Daintree Rainforest

Experience an exclusive 3 Day Cooktown tour that showcases Far North Queensland’s natural beauty and culture in an adventure of a lifetime. Visit the heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation and historical Cooktown. Highlights include an Indigenous interpretive walk to Wujal Wujal Falls (Bloomfield Falls), Bloomfield Track, James Cook Museum, iconic Lions Den Hotel and Cooktown Botanical Gardens.

Highlights

  • Cooktown
    • Lions Den Hotel
    • Bloomfield Track & Falls
  • Daintree Rainforest
    • Daintree Crocodile Cruise
    • Indigenous Tour of Wujal Wujal
  • James Cook Museum
    • Cooktown Botanic Gardens
    • Small Touring Group

Day 1 Cairns to Cape Tribulation via the Great Barrier Reef Scenic Drive

The Day begins with a scenic trip along the Great Barrier Reef Drive to Mossman Gorge, one of the most beautiful drives in Australia. Your journey takes you on a spectacular coastline-hugging road, with World Heritage Rainforest on one side, and Great Barrier Reef on the other. Be sure to pack the camera!

Mossman Gorge and the Cultural Centre are an award-winning ecotourism attraction located at the entrance to the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. The Centre, and Gorge are a must-do for anyone travelling in the beautiful Far North Queensland region. Experience crystal-clear cascades over large granite boulders surrounded by lush Daintree Rainforest. Experience one of the Natural Wonders of the World.

Then explore the famous Daintree River on an eco-friendly Daintree River Crocodile Cruise, boasting a vast range of wildlife, birds and the iconic Estuarine Crocodiles. Solar Whisper is the only zero-emission boat in the Daintree region, and their experienced Coxswain provides a unique perspective of the River, Rainforest and Mangroves whilst searching for the elusive apex predator. The boat is fitted with a "CROC CAM", so everyone gets the best opportunity to experience interactions no matter where you are sitting.

Cross the Daintree River on the Ferry and feel the main-land drift away as you become immersed in the completely off-grid community. Travel to Alexandra Lookout, providing picture-perfect views of where the Daintree Rainforest and sweeping views over the Great Barrier Reef. The Marrdja Boardwalk is a walk in the rainforest that you will never forget. This trail is wheelchair accessible, and whilst it is only 1.2km long - it will take you 350 million years back in time. The informative signs along the boardwalk will teach you about the history of this land, and living specimens of each significant stage of plant evolution over time. The lush vegetation and ever-changing scenery are sure to captivate, and you will be mesmerized as you stroll along this incredible route. You’ll come across a viewing platform that looks out over Noah Creek, providing you with stunning views... just be sure to keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles lurking in the waters below! Pitstop in to the Daintree Ice Cream Company, which is a family-friendly destination that features unique ice cream made from exotic fruits grown in their very own orchard. There is a beautiful Self-Guided Orchard Walk for those interested in fruit trees of the Tropics. This place serves amazing ice cream delights and is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the Daintree Rainforest! Next stop Cape Tribulation Beach is one of the most beautiful parts of Tropical Far North Queensland, and its beauty comes from its untouched wilderness. Cape Tribulation is a truly unique, completely off-grid community where the Rainforest is so dense, it is one of the few places that weren't affected by the Ice Age!

We will unwind & relax overnight at your Daintree Rainforest Accommodation and dine at a local family-owned restaurant while enjoying the natural sites and sounds of the Oldest Rainforest in the World. This is an experience you don't want to miss! 

Your evening finishes with a  Daintree Night Walk Tour, departing late evening, the small group will take you under the canopy at night - when the Rainforest comes alive. Suitable for all ages, fitness and mobility; this guided boardwalk tour is a unique experience enjoyed rain or shine. Torch in hand, you will be guided to spot the elusive wildlife of the Oldest Rainforest in the World. Whilst animal sightings are not guaranteed, adventurers have enjoyed bioluminescent Mushrooms, spoaring, Snails, Owls, glowing Scorpions, green-lipped Tree Frogs, Bats, Tree-Kangaroos and even sleeping Cassowarys... This is a special experience.

Accommodation:
Immersed Daintree Accommodation, Ferntree Rainforest Lodge. Located in Daintree Rainforest with rainforest and mountain views.
Meals:
Packed lunch in Cape Tribulation, Dinner at Cassowary Restaurant at Ferntree Rainforest Lodge.


Day 2 Cape Tribulation to Cooktown via the Bloomfield Track  

The following day you will start off by experiencing the breathtaking gigantic 500-year-old Fig Tree. Your 4WD will cross the cool, clear waters of Emmagen Creek, pretty as a postcard. Then we get onto the iconic Bloomfield Track, a 4WD mecca steeped in controversial conservation history connecting Cape Tribulation to the Indigenous township of Wujal Wujal. The Bloomfield Track is rated as one of Queensland’s most scenic 4WD short road trips – a bucket-list drive for both local and international enthusiasts. Flanked by pristine coastline on one side and ancient rainforest on the other, this track to Cooktown is a feast for the eyes.

Experience the captivating natural beauty of Australia's Top End through the eyes of our visionary artists. Bana Yirriji is a centre for artists in a rainforest, who create contemporary artworks inspired by their traditional culture and landscape; telling stories that explore relationships between land, country and people. The Collection includes paintings and works on paper, textiles and artefacts, complemented by locally made contemporary jewellery, wearable art, decorative accessories and products for the home –bringing the wild and the exquisite into your world. With artwork often sold-out, this is a exclusive experience.

Wujal Wujal is a remote region in Far North Queensland sacred to the Kuku-Yalanji people. The area is home to ancient coastal rainforests, stoney Black Mountains and intricate Mangroves providing habitat for many forms of marine life that have evolved over thousands of years alongside the Aboriginal people. Travel alongside the winding Bloomfield River, ending at the base of the beautiful Bloomfield Falls; also known as Wujal Wujal Falls or "Roaring Meg". Returning via a short 400m walking track. Learn about the amazing natural features of this World Heritage area through the eyes of the Kuku Yalanji traditional owners who have lived here for tens of thousands of years. The Walker Family will share some of their knowledge about this special place which is of great cultural significance to the Yalanji people.

Leaving Wujal Wujal behind, we're ready to venture to the elusive Black Mountain; a place of mystery and legend to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people alike. To traditional owners, Kalkajaka is a sacred battlefield of both spirits and warring clan groups. It's also a site where the natural elements of water and fire formed the Earth, giving birth to numerous other landforms along the Trevathan Range. Kalkajaka has its own Rainbow Serpent, called Walumba.

Enjoy lunch and a cold one at the legendary 1875 Lions Den Hotel. The Lions Den Hotel is one of the oldest Pubs in Far North Queensland and though it's well off the beaten track, the pub has long been on the bucket-list for adventure seekers in Cape York. The walls still boast the signatures – dating back to the 1800s – of thirsty tin miners on the walls and ceilings.

When the 1878 Cooktown Botanic Gardens were established, they were the first of their kind in Far North Queensland, offering the ideal environment to cultivate a diversity of exotic plants found only in the Cape York region. Today, the acclaimed gardens represent and reflect the cultural heritage of Cooktown, Australia's European Pioneer Settlement. It is also a popular refuge for local birdlife, including the Zebra Finch and Crimson Finch. We will make our way to the top of Grassy Hill, one of Cooktown's most popular attractions. Even if you're only inspired by a walk in the park, Grassy Hill offers a 360-degree view of Cooktown, The Endeavour River and The Great Barrier Reef. As you climb the Hill and look over every direction, you'll notice that very little has changed since Captain James Cook first set foot on this land.

You will spend the evening at Milkwood Lodge which is a beautiful, exquisite Cottage lifestyle immersed in the Rainforest: Milkwood lodge is a world of its own in Cooktown.

Accommodation: Cottage Cabin, Milkwood Lodge Rainforest Retreat. Secluded Cooktown accommodation cabins, located in Cooktown with rainforest and mountain views.
Meals: Lunch at Lions Den Hotel in Cooktown, and Dinner at Sovereign Resort.

Day 3 Cooktown to Cairns via Mulligan Highway

Start your day with mountain views and breakfast at Milkwood Lodge. This morning we will travel to James Cook Museum where you will discover the rich history of Cooktown in Far North Queensland. Set in a stunning nineteenth-century convent, Cooktown Museum is a must-see when visiting Far North Queensland. The museum houses an extensive collection of local Guugu Yimithiir artefacts, along with an original anchor and canon from HMB Endeavour that were salvaged in the 1970s. This heritage listed idea was constructed in 1880 and has been reimagined to tell the fascinating stories of the region.

We will journey south toward Cairns via the Mulligan Highway which was named after an old prospector and this area is steeped in rich mining history. We travel back via this inland road to offer a contrast to the Bloomfield Track giving you an all round experience and meaning you don't have to travel the same road twice. You will be treated to stunning scenery and the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands on your return journey. We will stop in Mt Molloy Pub North Queensland's oldest pub, established in 1900.

After lunch we will adventure to Kuranda a picturesque Mountain Village in the Rainforest. Subject to seasonal availability take a walk through Kuranda Heritage Markets a beautiful covered market with stall offering a variety food, crafts and souvenirs.

Be in awe of the mighty Barron Falls (Din Din) a steep tiered cascade waterfall of unmatched beauty to finish off your incredible 3 Day Cooktown Tour. Journey down the Kuranda range and farewell your Far North Escapes guide while we take you back to your accommodation.

Meals:
Breakfast at Milkwood Lodge, Lunch at Mt Molloy Pub.



More: Cooktown Tours | Cooktown Tours from Cairns | Cairns to Cooktown 4WD Tours | 4WD Tour

Please note: All itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, unexpected circumstances or Tour Guides decision based on what is best for the group and preferences.  This itinerary is ONLY a guide. Our itineraries are flexible, at Far North Escapes we modify our itineraries based on our guests needs and operational requirements. We believe in accommodating all our guest's needs and creating a remarkable Far North Queensland Adventure.

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Please Note
  • The Child Price is for ages 4 – 14.
  • Far North Escapes reserves the right to amend this itinerary due to any unforseen circumstances and accepts no responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged property, dinning and accommodation destination may be changed without notice, cancellation fees apply.
Outstanding Value Inclusions

Premium 4WD Vehicle

Guided Indigenous Walk

All Meals

Daintree River Crocodile Cruise

Daintree Rainforest Accommodation

Mossman Gorge Fees

What's Included

Fully guided tour. Experienced naturalist guides.

Mossman Gorge. Swim in crystal clear water cascading over granite boulders.

Alexandra Range. View the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef from above.

Daintree Crocodile Tour. The only zero emission boat on the Daintree River.

Daintree Ice Cream Factory. Exotic tropical flavors.

Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation. World’s oldest continuous rainforest UNESCO World Heritage.

Lions Den Hotel. Iconic pub boasting signatures of past adventures.  

Daintree ferry. Cross the Daintree River to the magical Daintree Rainforest.

Bloomfield Track. Treacherous track to Wujal Wujal.

Daintree Night Walk Tour. Wildlife spotting under the canopy with naturalist guide.

Daintree Accommodation. Immerse yourself within the Daintree Rainforest.

Wujal Wujal Waterfalls (Bloomfield Falls). Cascading waterfall onto the Bloomfield River.

Bana Yirriji Art Centre. See local indigenous artwork from the Kulki Yalanji people.

Cooktown Accommodation. Stay in the historical village of Cooktown.

James Cook Museum. Historic 1880 converted convent.

Guided Indigenous tour. Hosted by the Walker Family.

Emmagen Creek Crossing. Gateway to the Bloomfield Track.

Cooktown. Explore the historic village where the first settlers arrived.

Cooktown Botanic Gardens. Queensland's oldest regional botanical garden.

Grassy Hill. Enjoy amazing views and sunset over the Endeavour River.

Black Mountain. A landscape of mysterious mass of granite boulders.

Fig Tree. Gigantic 500-year-old fig tree.

Atherton Tablelands. Waterfall Capital of Australia.

Kuranda. Historic mountain-top village in the Rainforest.

Kuranda Heritage Markets. Local artisan creations.

Secluded Beaches and Swimming Holes. Experience the hidden gems of the jungle.

All national parks. Including fees and permits.

Small or private touring group. Comfortable and airconditioned vehicle.

Meals and snacks. As per itinerary.

Unique Accommodation. Immersed within the Daintree Rainforest.

PICK UP & RETRUN

Cairns 7:30am - 6:00pm

Northern Beaches 7:50am - 5:40pm

Port Douglas 8:45am - 5:00pm

Please Note
  • Far North Escapes requested dates and times are not always available due to accommodation suppliers. Which Far North Escapes will be more then happy to arrange another alternative date if suited to clients and accommodation suppliers. Pick-up times are dependent on road conditions, traffic, and can vary.

FAQs


GENERAL

Group Sizes & Vehicle Allocation  

We have a strong focus on client experience, and as such our groups are small in size. We want to give you the best, most immersive experience and that just cannot be delivered with large group touring. We have capped our numbers for this reason. The tour you have booked will determine the vehicle you are travelling in and your group size.

For our Day Trips and Multi-Day Tours, you will be travelling in a spacious late model LandCruiser Prado. Featuring 5 seats, we work on a rotational seating arrangements to give all guests the best experience possible.

Age limits and physical fitness

Our tours have been designed to suit a reasonable standard of fitness – for instance the ability to walk on some uneven surfaces. There are occasions, such as at Bloomfleld Falls (Wujal Wujal), where you can walk up to a distance of 400 meters on uneven ground. The ability to cope with remoteness is essential.

We have no age limits on our Tours. We have had young families on tours, and clients in their 90s. When completing the Medical Waiver Form, it is the guests responsibility to ensure their health and physical fitness is of a reasonable level and they have disclosed any ailments that are of concern. We suggest you seek advise from your GP if you are unsure.

Mobility Challenges & Disabilities: Yes, we have had clients with extra considerations join our Tours and it brings us great joy to be able to make their dream a reality. Please speak with our Agents if you or a member of your group has mobility challenges, a disability or is wheelchair bound. We are able to make adjustments accordingly.

Rest assured, you are in great hands with our experienced guides and we make every effort to ensure your trip is an enjoyable and inclusive one.


I am a solo traveler – do I need to pay a single supplement?

Yes, as we do not offer shared or paired accommodation for single travelers. See our (single) rates


Do I get a discount if I have travelled with you before?

Thank you for supporting our Family owned and operated local business. We’re so pleased you are back for another Escape! Please discuss your past travels with our friendly Agents for a discount to be applied.


What accommodation is provided, and do I need to share with other members of the group?

Accommodation is subject to availability. Please note, there are instances where accommodation in your itinerary can change or be amended due to operational or supplier requirements. Under no circumstances will you be required on any tour to share accommodation with any other member of the group.


BOOKING

Pre and Post Travel arrangements

Our Far North Escapes Agents are experienced in all aspects of Travel arrangements, and happy to assist you in organising your Pre and Post tour plans. Please call us to discuss.


Insurance

Far North Escapes and/or its agents are not responsible or liable for loss, damage or theft of luggage or personal belongings whatsoever, nor for personal injury, accidents, hospitalization, illness or medical expenses. In our experience, most claims arise from personal or close-family illness before holiday departure, resulting in cancellation charges. We strongly recommend all intending passengers consult their travel or insurance provider, and take out adequate travel insurance to cover events that may affect your ability to travel(including, but not limited to, health, baggage, loss of monies through cancellation, additional expenses incurred through illness or personal liability prior to travel and early return, for example, following the death of a relative). We do not have any affiliation or personal recommendations regarding insurance – its important you do your own research and choose cover suited to your personal circumstances.


Stand By Lists

We do have a Stand By List should your preferred departure date be sold-outonline. Please contact us by your preferred contact method to request to beplaced on Stand By should a space become available, and we will be in contact.


Free Time on Tour

Yes, we balance our tours for the comfort and experience of our clients on tour. There are opportunities throughout your Itinerary where you will have time at Leisure – where you can book optional extra activities or just soak up your surroundings.


Luggage & What to Pack

You will be provided with a suggested Packing List pertaining to your relevant booked Tour.
Luggage type is at your preference; however please note we do have a strict 15kg limitation per guest due to internal Flights.


OTHER

How often will I need to cook?

You’re on holiday! At no time during our tours will you be required to cook.

Can I bring my pet?

If you are on a Private Charter, yes, we can make arrangements for you to bring your pet. This is on a request basis and needs to be discussed prior to booking with one of our friendly Agents.

Smoking

As per government regulations, Smoking is not permitted inside our vehicles at any time. Ample stops on route can provide time for “Smoko” breaks.

Guaranteed Departures

All of our Cairns Tours are Guaranteed departures when at least 3 guests are confirmed.
Our one day and multi-day tours are a minimum of 2 guests for a Guaranteed departure.

Drones

At the time of writing: for recreational purposes, you do not need a permit to use a drone in Queenslands National Parks as long as it weighs under 2kgs,there are less than 10 people involved in the shoot and no buildings or structures are being filmed. For up to date information consult the Queensland National Parks website, or use the “Can I fly there” app.

Dietary Requirements

Yes, we cater to all Dietary requirements for our guests. Please ensure we have your considerations available to us upon booking.

Water

Water is provided and available at all times to our guests. If you would like to bring your own reusable water bottle, you are encouraged to do so.

Toilets

We provide ample stops and consider our guests comfort. On remote stretches, we provide port-a-loos.

Seating Arrangements

Our vehicles operate with a daily seat rotation system to ensure passengers enjoy a different perspective each day on tour.  

First Aid & Medical Emergencies

Your treatment will depend on the particular circumstances and your location. Our experienced crew members are first-aid trained, and our vehicles are equipped with a full First Aid kit. If you require medical evacuation in a remote location, the Royal Flying Doctor Service operate on a donation service. We will ensure you get the best treatment, and get you back on tour, or home, safely as soon as possible.

All our trips include:

Industry leading safety measures
Customer support for peace of mind
Experienced tour leaders
All taxes are included

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