Did you know Aboriginal culture is one of the oldest living cultures in the world? It dates back some 50,000 years!
There’s no better place to learn about this ancient and diverse culture than in Cairns and surrounds, especially on a tour that will take you to experience natural elements like the Daintree Rainforest. Departing Cairns or Port Douglas, venture to Cooya Beach with an indigenous guide to learn hunting and gathering techniques before hiking through the forest in the afternoon. You could also opt to have an Aboriginal guide accompany your hike to tell Dreamtime stories and share their knowledge of the land, and you’ll also get to see a ‘Welcome to the Country’ smoking ceremony.
For the more ambitious, a two-day Cooktown adventure in a 4WD vehicle will surely do the trick. Accompanied by a traditional Aboriginal story-teller of the Nugal-warra clan, you will journey through the Daintree along the Bloomfield Track, which offers some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery. The off-road track will lead you to areas where you’ll see ancestral ancient rock art first-hand and also Black Mountain, which holds significant mystery according to Aboriginal legend. After overnighting in Cooktown, follow a Nugul-warra elder through the countryside of Hope Vale where you’ll visit six rock art sites like Ancestral Birth Cave and the Reconciliation Cave. You’ll also learn about Aboriginal spirituality and their connection to the earth. If your travel plans better accommodate a single-day adventure, a shorter, day option is available.
If a self-guided cultural experience interests you more, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park (near Cairns) has a lot to offer the culturally curious. While at the park, learn how to throw a boomerang or how to craft traditional medicine from native plants, catch traditional dance performances, and get your fill of authentic Dreamtime stories. The Magic Space museum also has Aboriginal artifacts and large traditional murals on display. The park is only a 15 minute drive outside of Cairns, and transportation available.
No matter how you choose to experience the culture of Tropical North Queensland be it a two-day adventure or a quick visit to the local Cultural Park, there’s plenty of ways to learn about Aboriginal life not too far from Cairns.
How to explore Cairns’ cultural side from Cairns & the Tropical North Things to Do
