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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. All options can be booked at or with the Lodge.

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 might even get to look in the eyes of an amethystine python but 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 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$ 35.00 per child: AU$ 25.00

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$ 72.00 per child: AU$ 59.00

Half Day Cooktown Safari
(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: 09.00hrs am

Prices: From April 1st 2010 this is available as part of our Cooktown Rainforest & Rock Art Expedition or by private charter, prices on application.

Aboriginal Art on the Rocks & Wetland Lagoons Safari
(available in packages & operated by Mungumby Tours)

Tour Description:
From the on set this journey leads us into some of the most wonderful dry country you can experience. Setting out early we cross the Little Annan River where we view the mighty Annan gorge. A stop for great coffee at Lakeland before heading inland to the Quinkan country we stop frequently to view wildlife along the way. A visit to the Quinkan Cultural Centre in Laura really sums up all the facts and opens your imagination as to the hardships endured and Life of the Cape York for the past 35,000 years. At Split Rock art site we view 3 galleries of Aboriginal art on the rocks (for keen fit and able walkers we can also taken in Turtle Rock & the Gugu Yalanji Galleries) and learn the legends of the Quinkan. Lunch is taken under the Mango trees in sleepy Laura listening to the Lorikeet’s and Galas.

Inclusions: 7.5 hour - full day 4x4 safari, refreshments, Yummy gourmet picnic, drinking water

Departures: by appointment: 08.30hrs am

Prices: From April 1st 2010 this is available as part of our popular Cooktown Rainforest & Rock Art Expedition and our or by private charter, prices on application.

Optional Aboriginal Guides are available at $85 per hour over and above the trip costs

Wujal Wujal & 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: 08.30hrs am

Prices:  From April 1st 2010 this is available by private charter, prices on application.

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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.

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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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