Ancient Dreaming - Cooktown & Bloomfield 4WD Adventure

Your adventure begins with a spectacular flight (not included) over the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, landing in historic Cooktown. Upon arrival, meet your friendly indigenous guide for the scenic drive to Rossville Retreat, your eco-luxury base surrounded by lush rainforest. Be welcomed by Mooks, a respected Kuku Nyungkul healer, who will host a traditional Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony. As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxed dinner at the iconic Lion’s Den Hotel, sharing stories and anticipation for the days ahead. Accommodation: Rossville Retreat

After breakfast overlooking the Cooktown waterfront, journey through time with a guided visit to the Waalmbal Birri Heritage & Culture Centre, where local elder Alberta brings to life the incredible story of Captain Cook’s 48 days in Cooktown and his connection with the Guugu Yimithirr people. Take in panoramic views at Grassy Hill Lookout before exploring the lush Cooktown Botanic Gardens and its rich cultural plant history. Returning to Rossville, join Mooks for an interactive bush food and medicine walk, artefact sharing and boomerang throwing. The evening ends around the campfire with stargazing and storytelling under the endless northern sky. Accommodation: Rossville Retreat

Begin your morning learning the ancient art of Kurrma, a traditional ground oven cooking method, guided by Mooks. Then venture deep into the rainforest to experience the majestic Roaring Meg Falls, a sacred and breathtaking natural wonder where crystal pools invite you for a refreshing swim. Enjoy a picnic lunch in this pristine paradise before returning to Rossville. That evening, uncover the delicious feast you helped prepare in the Kurrma and share in a cultural celebration featuring traditional dance and music performed by Mooks and his group - a highlight of the journey. Accommodation: Rossville Retreat

Wake to the sounds of the forest before journeying south via the scenic and adventurous 4WD route, the Bloomfield Track. Enjoy the drive through the world-renowned Daintree Rainforest, one of the only places on Earth where two World Heritage sites meet. Stop for lunch at Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest kisses the sea, then explore an exclusive-access property, Gurrandji Bubu (Cassowary Country), alongside your indigenous guides, Mooks and Jon Jon. Learn about ancient cycads, rare insects and living ecosystems that have thrived for millennia. Participate in tree planting with the Jabalbina Foresters Rainforest Restoration Programme before settling into your rainforest accommodation at Yirri Yirri Daintree River Falls. Enjoy a tranquil dinner at the Daintree Ecolodge, surrounded by the symphony of the forest. Accommodation: Yirri Yirri Daintree River Falls Lodge (Split King shared rooms only)

After breakfast, say farewell to the rainforest as your journey concludes with the participation of a very special closing ceremony of Eastern Kuku Yalanji Elders under the canopy of the Daintree by cool healing waters. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences, deep cultural insights and connections formed with the land, its people and its stories. A journey that will stay with you long after you have returned home. Arrival in Cairns ca. 2pm.