Cooktown - the gateway to the wilderness

Cooktown is situated on the east coast of Cape York Peninsula, Australia, 4 hours drive north of Cairns. Its pioneering history, un-spoilt town, indigenous significance and its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the rest of Cape York make it a must destination for anyone wanting to get a real taste of Australia.

The Cooktown region is the classic Australian Outback, with the Great Barrier Reef as our neighbour. Eucalypts, wattles and a landscape featuring rough & rugged terrain tempered with the tranquil beauty of wetlands, rivers and waterfalls. Fascinating wildlife, amazing flora and a vibrant, dynamic, living Aboriginal culture make this country a must to experience.

The first non-indigenous person to experience this area was Captain James Cook who after hitting the Great Barrier Reef made to Cooktown for repairs. He stayed 8 weeks and it was hear that a lot of Australia's native flora and fauna in including our national symbol the kangaroo was first documented. Since Captain cooks visit the area has been involved in many historical events including the Palmer River Gold Rush.

The beauty of Cooktown today is that it is still un-spoilt and has little development. As you sit at the Cooktown Wharf today and look across to North Shore you are seeing the same site that Captain Cook would have seen.

GETTING To cooktown

Cooktown is accessible by road or air. There are daily bus and air services to and from Cooktown.

Access by the coast

Travel from Port Douglas, through Daintree, Cape Tribulation. Cross the Bloomfield River. 4WD only, 235km, about 5 hours. Note: This road may be closed at various times during the wet season.

Access by the centre

An easier drive and scenic in a different way. Through valleys and hills looking over historical mining country to distant escarpments. 320kms, about 4 hours. 4WD is not necessary. 35km of this road is unsealed, making for an easy drive.

Access by air

Take the fantastic flight up the coast with views over rainforest and reef. Daily flights operate between Cairns and Cooktown. Flying time is 30minutes. Private charters are available.