Cultural Tours

Guurrbi Tours. A 45-minute drive inland of Cooktown lie ancient Aboriginal rock-art sites of immense significance, the exact locations of which are a closely guarded secret—so who better to guide you than Nugal-warra elder Willie Gordon, a designated storyteller? During the dry season, Willie guides guests around his ancestral rock-art sites, set high in the hills behind Hope Vale, on scheduled weekday tours that pick up from accommodations around Cooktown. The 5½-hour Rainbow Serpent tour takes in half a dozen sites including the renowned Rainbow Serpent Cave and an ancestral birthing site. En route, Willie shares the Dreamtime stories and traditional lore behind this extraordinary cave art, some of which was painted by his own grandfather. If you're self-driving to the Guurrbi Meeting Point, near Hope Vale Aboriginal Community (about 45 minutes from town): request a map and directions when you book. It's recommended you wear sunscreen and insect protection; closed-toe shoes are mandatory. 9 Boundary St., Cooktown, Queensland, 4895. 07/4034–5020; www.guurrbitours.com. From A$135. Apr.–Jan., weekdays 7:45 am--1:30 pm.