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Atherton, Queensland to Cooktown, Queensland from $35: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Atherton, Australia
to
Cooktown, Australia

How to Get from Atherton to Cooktown: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$35 by carBest price
300 kmDistance
3h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Atherton to Cooktown with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  50m
Estimated price
$35-55
Cheapest
Company
Trans North Bus & Coach
Bus
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$46-81
Recommended
route map
Distance: 300 km
Duration: 3h 50m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$133-241
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Traveling From Atherton to Cooktown

The journey from Atherton to Cooktown takes you from the lush, high-altitude landscapes of the Tablelands to the rugged, coastal beauty of north Queensland, each offering a distinct adventure.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cooktown

Cooktown boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Historic Cooktown
• Rich in Aboriginal and European history.
• Features the famous Cooktown Botanic Gardens.
Finch Bay
• Stunning ocean views and serene beaches.
• Great spot for fishing and outdoor activities.
Bamboo Creek
• Nestled in nature with lush landscapes.
• Offers hiking trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Best Times To Visit Cooktown's Attractions

Planning your visit to Cooktown can enhance your experience at its top attractions.

Grassy Hill Lookout
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning views and fewer crowds.
James Cook Museum
Rainy days are ideal; enjoy exhibits without the usual visitor rush.
Cooktown Botanic Gardens
Spring offers vibrant blooms and less humidity for a pleasant stroll.

Cooktown Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cooktown enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The best times to visit are during the dry months from May to October, when you can enjoy outdoor activities without the interruptions of heavy rain.

Dining Recommendation in Cooktown

Try the barramundi fish tacos at Seaview Restaurant, where fresh local seafood meets vibrant flavors, offering a striking contrast to Atherton's farm-to-table offerings. The breezy atmosphere and stunning ocean views elevate your dining experience, making it all the more memorable.

Atherton - Cooktown operators

Explore transport companies operating between Atherton and Cooktown, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+61 7 3036 2070
Website
https://www.transnorthbus.com.au/

Bus from Mareeba to Cooktown

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
AU$35-65

Bus from Atherton to Smithfield

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
AU$17-25
Plane
Website
http://hinterlandaviation.com.au

Plane from Cairns to Cooktown Airport

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
AU$80-170

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Atherton to Cooktown.

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The distance between Atherton and Cooktown is approximately 202.8 km by air and 300.3 km by road. Traveling from Atherton to Cooktown typically takes 5 hours and 25 minutes by bus and then flying. Alternatively, it takes 3 hours and 50 minutes to drive from Cooktown to Atherton by car. Taking a bus from Atherton to Cooktown usually takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Atherton to Cooktown is to drive. It takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes, and the cost ranges from $35 to $55. This option allows you to have more flexibility in terms of travel time and stops along the way. Alternatively, taking a bus is also an affordable option, but it takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes to reach Cooktown from Atherton.
The prices for a bus ticket between Atherton and Cooktown range from $39 to $78.
To get from Atherton to Cooktown without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 300.9 km. The drive usually takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes. I recommend budgeting for expenses like fuel and tolls, which could range from $35 to $55.
The most convenient way to travel from Atherton to Cooktown without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes and the cost ranges from $35 to $80.
There is no direct link between Atherton and Cooktown by bus. However, there are services available that can take you from Atherton to Cooktown with transfers in Mareeba. The journey can take approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes. Trans North Bus & Coach operates these services which depart from Mareeba and arrive at Cooktown.
The flight between Atherton and Cooktown is relatively short, taking approximately 45 minutes. This is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation between the two destinations. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but typically, a one-way ticket can range from $150 to $250 AUD.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cooktown. There are at least 19 hotels to choose from with prices starting at $69.