Cooktown Regional Tours with a difference
Nature is our entertainer as we are surrounded by some very intricate and diverse Eco Systems. At Mungumby Lodge during the day guests can take advantage of the numerous walking trails, exploring the adjoining World Heritage Listed rainforests and historic mining sites, secret waterfalls and jungle pools of one of the Mungumby estates numerous creeks. To compliment the lodge, Safari tour options to aboriginal rock art sites, deserted beaches, and the stunning rainforest are on offer. There are a wide range of self-guided options & facilities at Mungumby Lodge, which guests can part-take in with no additional cost. Spectacular waterfalls, inland lakes offer bird watching and trekking clients with numerous opportunities. The ocean nearby offers abundant fishing and limited Great Barrier Reef activities. A half day visit to Cooktown is also highly recommended and very interesting!
We are able to quote and arrange guided tours to visit and possibly spot various species like the rare and elusive Bennett’s Tree Kangaroo, which live in the area. Likewise we are able to quote & arrange safari & trekking charter options for those who want to be looked after on their own, or have special interest requirements. Tours are also available, which include deep-sea ocean fishing to the pristine Ribbon Reefs. Light tackle estuary fishing is awesome especially by fly (see Gone fishing link below). All options can be booked at or with the Lodge.
See our experience touring packages ex Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove or Atherton Tablelands. Click on the text to obtain the flier CTRC Expedition 2013.pdf . Private safari along the Bloomfield Track, scenic flights from and back to Cairns. Our package is for those descerning travellers who like to be away from the crowds and enjoy the comforts that cannot be experienced from a bus trip bouncing along the track. We are also able to offer private charter brid watching.
Orientation Briefing
On your arrival your hosts and guides will welcome you with a detailed explanation of surrounding nature, culture and history of this fascinating region. Listen and learn as you are introduced to the many experiences you can enjoy. Touch and feel some of the seeds and rock formations presented before you. You are certain to learn about the Palmer River Gold rush, the story of Australia's bloodiest Aboriginal war, Captain James Cook's unplanned visit to the region and the small Historical village of Cooktown.
Optional Tours departing from Mungumby Lodge
Nocturnal Guided Rainforest Walk
(operated by Mungumby Tours)
Tour Description:
Explore our very own backyard and our acient rainforests by night. This fascinating night walk takes you along the banks for the Mungumby Creek and your guide will revile the remarkable history of the region. We include the ancient myths of this primitive environment, the trials & tribulations of the Lions Den Tin miners who lived on the Big Tableland over a 130 years ago. Depending on the time of year, we often see a number of species of black & white possum, fruit bats, bandicoots, spiders, frogs, and at times, barking owls nestling in the high grass. We even have several yet elusive Bennett's Tree Kangaroo in close proximity of the lodge.
Grading: easy
Inclusions: 1.5 hour guided walking tour, flashlight
Departures: by appointment at 5.30 hrs pm (17.30hrs)
Prices: per adult: AU$ 38.00 per child: AU$ 27.00
Half Day Hidden Falls Trek & Swim
(operated by Mungumby Tours)
Tour Description:
Leaving the Lodge garden, we head into pristine tropical Rainforest. Along the way your guide will point out various kinds of ancient Eucalypt, Fig and rainforest giant trees, White & Silky Oaks, Milkwoods, Cedar, Tropical Kauri Pines found in this area. You likely to see some wildlife along the way, however most mammals of the area are nocturnal. Lizards, Water Dragons and birds are our daytime companions. You will definitely hear and see birds and lots of fascinating vegetation. You may encounter snakes and other insects, which will be explained to you by your guide. The trek takes you deep into the forest. At the end of the trek you will be stunned by the beautiful Hidden Falls, a 15 metre waterfall with it’s inviting pool of natural and sparkling water. A real treat knowing you are the only ones out there - what more could one wish for other than a lovely dip in the waterfall.
Grading: moderate
Inclusions: Guided walk, morning or afternoon snack and cold drink, drinking water
Departures: By prior appointment 09.00hrs am
What To Wear / What To Bring: Sunhat, good walking shoes, swim-wear & towel
Prices: per adult: AU$ 77.00 per child: AU$ 55.00
Half Day Cooktown Safari
(only available in packages & operated by Mungumby Tours)
Tour Description:
A short distance from the lodge we encounter a number of interesting and historical plants. As we round Black Mountain, learn more about its ancient Aboriginal myths, how it was formed and the story of the Yalanji people. We stop at a wetland area to witness the magic of this special place and its many inhabitants, including whistling ducks, magpie geese, Brolgas, Jabiru & Crocodiles and listen to the Aboriginal back ground of the lagoons. Standing on Grassy Hill at Cooktown you can go back in time and imagine what it was like for James Cook 230 years ago as he stood on this very point to navigate a path through the treacherous reef systems. It was off the coast on the same Longitude as Mungumby Lodge that Captain James Cook ran the HMB Endeavour aground with glare in their eyes on a sunny Monday afternoon June 1770. We visit the village centre before afternoon tea. Then we identify where Cook's crew repaired the HMB Endeavour after hitting what is known today as Endeavour Reef, before limping to shore with a sail wrapped around the bow. Stopping in the main street of Historical Cooktown where we learn of he fearless people and changes that took place in Australia's Gold capital of the last century, before returning by 4x4 to your tranquil base.
Inclusions: 4 hour (1/2 day) 4x4 safari, morning tea, drinking water
Departures: by appointment basis: 0830 hrs am
Price: $445.00 as private charter 1-7 pax
Cooktown & Tropical Rainforest, scenic flights and these excursionsCTRC Expedition 2013.pdf
Rainforest Coastal & Bloomfield Track Safari
(Available in packages & Operated by Mungumby Tours).
Tour Description:
From the on set this journey leads us into some of the most wonderful country you can experience. Heading down the Bloomfield 4x4 track we lead you through wilderness villages and Aboriginal community set within the rainforest. We travel through extremely interesting and very natural landscapes as you immerse yourself in nature. From towering mountain peaks to rugged mangrove covered riverbanks.
We visit the Walker Sisters who take us through the Aboriginal stories of Wujal Wujal and their Aboriginal ancestors at the Wujal Wujal falls as the water cascades 40 metres to the tidal estuary banks of the Bloomfield River. A gourmet picnic lunch listening to the tune of the Butcher bird you will learn about the controversial Bloomfield track and the hippies making national headlines, protecting this region from government development. You will see Aboriginal and European farm lands, giant strangler figs and visit the famous Cedar Bay National Park.
On the way home we stop at the historical Lions Den Hotel for a refreshing cool drink (optional extra) close to the Lodge.
Inclusions: 7.5 hour - full day 4x4 safari, refreshments, Yummy gourmet picnic, drinking water
Departures: by appointment, in CTRC Packgage: 08.30hrs am
Prices: $890.00 as private charter 1-7 pax
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This retreat is suitable for anyone with an interest in participating in yoga, unwinding and getting back in touch with nature. It’s for those who yearn to spend more time with the elements, relax in the rainforest, immerse in the senses walk on the sand, watch the sun set over the ocean. It’s for those who feel stressed, who want to find some inner quiet and learn new ways to relax.
It’s particularly suitable for those who attend regular yoga classes, but would like to have more time to engage more intensively in a range of yoga practices such as breath connection, dynamic and restorative postures, chakra energising and guided meditations, and to explore more deeply what yoga is about, the philosophy and esoteric teachings of yoga.
But you don’t have to have done yoga before to enjoy the retreat - beginners are also welcome. We will be doing physical yoga practice and walking so you need an average level of health and physical capacity but you won’t be expected to do gymnastics. We work on the philosophy that “if you can breathe you can do yoga”. You practice where you are at - it’s all about finding your own yoga that’s right for you.
cooktown august 2013 booking form - radiant sun yoga retreat .pdf
FISHING
SE Cape York is world renown for its fishing. Coastal, river and shore fishing is some of the best. However they key is knowing the right spots and to stay away from the rest of the pack.
Mungumby Lodge recommends Gone fishing as the regions best choice. Mark is knowledgable, fun to be around and knows his stuff. Departing from Cooktown we know from experience it is best to pre plan and book a trip with Mark. The Mungumby team would be happy to do this for you at no extra cost! If there are unexpected changes we can liase with Mark & Ali to ensure you do not miss your planned trip, we can also arrange with our Chef to have your catch prepared & cooked on your return.
GONE FISHING
Gone Fishing offers guided fishing charters and wildlife tours around Cooktown, Cape York, Australia. Fish with lures, fly, pole or live-bait for barramundi, coral trout, tuna, mackerel, jacks, trevally and Queenies. With over 12 years experience fishing locally they pride themselves ontheir personalised, professional and consistent fishing charters.
http://www.fishingcooktown.com/
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing around the Cooktown region guarantees strong winds and ideal conditions from May till October. In the Cooktown area you are assured exclusive locations south and north, from Wujal Wujal to Cape Melville. Strong, constant trade winds off Cedar Bay, Weary Bay, Walkers Bay, Cape Bedford, Indian Head and Cape Flattery mean these areas are for ideal for experienced kiters.
The Cooktown region both south and north offers golden sands with clear flat lagoons known at these special kitesurfing locations. We request total respect for the wishes of traditional owners, which means not driving on the beaches at low tide, use small boats where you need to, or walk in and always obtain a permit for access.
In our region you can expect lots of wind, lots of adventure, natural golden sands, warm water and the ocean to yourself.
Special Interest Clients
We are also able to quote and arrange guided tours for bird watching, nature spotting, and history trips or to visit and spot various species like the rare and elusive Bennett's Tree Kangaroo, which endemic to the area. Likewise we are able to quote & arrange safari & trekking charter options for those who want to be looked after on their own or have special interest requirements. Tours are also available, which include Scenic flights to Lizard Island, deep-sea ocean fishing to the pristine Ribbon Reefs, light tackle estuary fishing is awesome especially by fly, all of, which can be booked at or with the Lodge.
Great Northern Safari 2011 GNSN.pdf - click file text left to view!
CRC Expedition 2011.pdf - click text to view!
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Here at Mungumby Lodge on the edge of the worlds oldest rainforest, you may just wish to spend your time relaxing near the pool, in the garden or in the main lounge area. Or you may wish to discover the region on your own, on one of the many hiking trails. Picnic lunches can be organized for you. Just let your hosts know. You may be looking for an experience that's not been listed here. We do offer other activities and tours and can tailor make a stay to suit your wishes. Please contact us with your requirements. Whichever way you choose to go, Mungumby Lodge will have something for you.
Don’t forget to check our Cultural Page for tour operators offering Aboriginal guided experiences.
Some things We Do Ask You to Remember
Please be aware that this region of the world is also home to exotic species of flora and fauna. We therefore ask you, to always pay attention to warning signs, especially if you are out there exploring the area without a professional guide.
Swimming from November to May should only be undertaken around Mungumby Lodge or the Annan River gorge or at the beach you can minimise the risk of stinger-injury by wearing a stinger-resistant wet-suit. The rest of the year is abide by the signage and are aware of the risks we have wonderful beaches that offer excellent ocean swimming.
Tips for Your Trip
When packing, don't forget that temperatures in Far Tropical North Queensland vary from dry season (May - Dec) to wet season (Jan - April). In the dry season the weather is normally warm to hot during the day, and can also get quite cool at nights. Pack light protective clothing to avoid sunburn, insect bites.
During the wet season we recommend you pack light waterproof clothing suitable for humid conditions. The wet season is a very nice time of the year and a time where you are sure to see more wildlife.
At whichever time of the year, we recommend you wear sturdy trekking or walking shoes / boots.
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Download Tour Packages (PDFs):
Departing Cairns the Great Northern Safari North bound - click here!
Departing Cairns our Cooktown Rock Art & Rainforest Expedition - click here!
