I want to share with you as much as I can.
– Roy Gibson, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre
Many of Australia’s most authentic Indigenous tourism encounters can be found in Tropical North Queensland. Be guided through the rainforest by a Traditional Owner and learn about bush tucker and medicines at Mossman Gorge, hunt for mud-crab on traditional fishing grounds near Port Douglas or admire vibrant Torres Strait Island art on Thursday Island.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the two ancient cultures of Tropical North Queensland. Visit reef and rainforest country to deepen your connection with the world, through the timeless wisdom of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples have lived on this land for more than 60,000 years. Today, you can enjoy Indigenous performances and immersive tours that deliver unforgettable memories. Pick up a spear and hunt for mud crabs near Port Douglas, learn how Dreamtime stories are interpreted through art at Janbal Aboriginal Art Gallery or watch enchanting dances at Rainforestation Nature Park.
Tropical North Queensland hosts two of Australia’s most awe-inspiring Indigenous events. Each year in June and July, visitors flock to the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair for exhibitions, artist talks and other events. Every two years, more than 20 communities from remote Cape York travel to Laura, 330km north of Cairns, to perform at the spectacular Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival.
Right at the very tip of Australia lies the extensive archipelago, the Torres Strait Islands. Each of the islands’ small communities has their own distinct practices, beliefs and customs. Practices they share include colourful dance, distinctive masks and headdresses, traditional carving and modern printmaking.
Explore ancient landscapes and the stories of the Traditional Custodians.
Tropical North Queensland is the only region in Australia with two distinct Indigenous cultures, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. Connect with these ancient cultures 60,000 years in the making.
Delve deeper into the iconic landscapes of Tropical North Queensland by visiting with Traditional Custodians.
Discover the Indigenous stories, legends and traditions of Wunyami (Green Island) from the Gungganji and Yidinji people as you join them on a guided island tour and learn about their cultural, ceremony and life with Wunyami Tours.
As you discover the Great Barrier Reef, uncover the culture of the Traditional Custodians with personal interpretation by local Indigenous rangers on Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel.
Discover what true connection to country feels like at a 20,000-year-old Aboriginal rock art gallery with Jarramali Rock Art Tours. Fly in via a scenic helicopter or jump in a 4WD with a Traditional Owner guide for the full overnight experience.
Moungibi (Burketown), a small town in the Gulf of Carpentaria with a population of fewer than 300 people, may surprise you with its depth of experiences – Indigenous-owned & operated Yagurli Tours offers a collection of tours run by the Gangalidda-Garawa Traditional Custodians.
Known as the colourful village in the rainforest, Kuranda has a much deeper history that stretches way beyond its famous quirky markets. Learn more about the Indigenous people who have called Kuranda home for at least 10,000 years.
CIAF is one of Australia’s premier Torres Strait Island and Aboriginal art events including an ethical art market, cultural performances and more.
Here’s why you should experience the beauty, culture and history of the Torres Strait on a brand new tour exploring Australia’s most northerly point.
Under the tutelage of Kuku Yalanji guides, a barefoot and nervous city dweller discovers her hunter’s instincts. Here’s what to expect on a Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tour.
Book your holiday to Tropical North Queensland and save up to 20% off on hotels, tours and more!
