This morning we make our way north to the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. Highlights include a 1-hour wildlife cruise on the Daintree River, BBQ lunch, and a guided rainforest walk at the Marrdja Boardwalk. We also visit the iconic Cape Tribulation Beach – named by Captain Cook in 1770. Heading north our driver will share fascinating stories & history as you travel along the famous 4WD-only Bloomfield Track before arriving at the iconic Lion’s Den Hotel for a cool refreshment (own expense). On arrival at Cooktown, relax before our welcome dinner.

A full day to explore this iconic Historic town including a guided foreshore walk, see reconciliation rocks – where the first act of reconciliation between Europeans and Aboriginals took place. Learn about the 48 days Captain Cook and his crew spent ashore, the role Cooktown played in the Palmer River Gold rush and the connection to country the area has, for the local Guugu Yimithirr Aboriginal people. This afternoon we visit the Heritage listed Cooktown Cemetery, bearing testimony to the diverse nationalities who came to Cooktown and the Palmer Goldfields. From there we explore James Cook Museum showcasing the fascinating history of this remarkable town. See original artifacts from the Endeavor including a cannon and anchor Today concludes with a visit Grassy Hill for amazing panoramic views of Cooktown, the Coral Sea & Endeavour River. 

Free time this morning to do some exploring for yourself. There are many historic buildings and places of interest. Lunch is included today before we explore the Cooktown Botanic Gardens on a guided walk - see living plant specimens collected by Dr Daniel Solander and Joseph Banks. Established in 1878, the Cooktown Botanic Gardens are one of Queensland’s oldest regional Botanic gardens. Natures Powerhouse houses the Vera Scarth-Johnson gallery, a collection of original botanical illustrations of flora from the region. We depart Cooktown via the Mulligan Highway. Stops are made enroute at Black Mountain, Byerstown Lookout and the Palmer River Roadhouse. Marvel at the beauty of the outback savannah country with its vast eucalypt forests and termite mounds.