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Cooktown, Queensland to Atherton, Queensland from AU$37: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cooktown, Australia
to
Atherton, Australia

How to Get from Cooktown to Atherton: 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.

$37 - OtherBest price
300 kmDistance
3h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cooktown to Atherton 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
AU$37-58
Cheapest
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  50m
Estimated price
AU$37-58
Fastest
route map
Distance: 300 km
Duration: 3h 50m

See more options

Company
Trans North Bus & Coach
Bus
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
AU$45-84
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
AU$130-238
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cooktown to Atherton

The journey from Cooktown to Atherton offers a fascinating contrast between Cooktown's coastal charm and Atherton's lush highland scenery.

Best Neighbourhoods in Atherton

Atherton boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique attractions for visitors.

Atherton Town Centre
• Central hub for shopping and dining.
• Features local markets and cultural events.
Malanda
• Known for its stunning waterfall and swimming hole.
• Rich in dairy farming heritage and scenic views.
Walkamin
• Home to beautiful gardens and agriculture.
• Quiet, rural atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Atherton's Attractions

Discover the optimal times to explore Atherton's highlights and make the most of your experience.

Atherton Tablelands
Visit early mornings for stunning views and fewer tourists.
Crystal Caves
Afternoon visits offer a quieter atmosphere and excellent lighting for photos.
Curtain Fig Tree
Weekday mornings are best to enjoy this natural wonder without crowds.

Atherton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Atherton enjoys a subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. The dry season from May to October is typically the best time to visit, as the milder temperatures and lower humidity enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Atherton

For a taste of Atherton's culinary scene, try the local favorite: a hearty bowl of Atherton Tablelands pumpkin soup, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This dish showcases a comforting, rich flavor profile that contrasts beautifully with the seafood-centric offerings of Cooktown, providing a warm, cozy atmosphere that celebrates the region’s agricultural bounty.

Cooktown - Atherton operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cooktown and Atherton, 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 Cooktown to Mareeba

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
AU$37-64

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Atherton

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
AU$16-27
Plane
Website
http://hinterlandaviation.com.au/

Plane from Cooktown Airport to Cairns

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
AU$77-168

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cooktown to Atherton.

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The distance between Cooktown and Atherton is approximately 202.8 km by road. It takes about 5 hours and 8 minutes to travel from Cooktown to Atherton by flying and then taking a bus. Alternatively, driving from Atherton to Cooktown takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes by car, and around 4 hours and 40 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cooktown to Atherton is driving. It takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to cover the distance of 300.5 km by car. The cost for fuel and other expenses is estimated to be around $35-$55 for this trip. Taking a fly and bus combination can also be a viable option, but it is slightly more expensive and takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes.
The prices for a bus ticket between Atherton and Cooktown range from $42 to $74.
To get from Cooktown to Atherton without using public transportation, you can drive the 300.9 km distance, which takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. You can rent a car in Cooktown and enjoy the scenic drive through Queensland's countryside. The prices for car rentals vary between $35 and $55 depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
If you are traveling from Cooktown to Atherton without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. The bus fare can range from $40 to $75, depending on the operator and time of travel.
There is no direct link between Cooktown and Atherton via bus. However, there is a bus service operated by Trans North Bus & Coach that departs from Cooktown and arrives at Mareeba. From Mareeba, travelers can then transfer to another bus service to reach Atherton. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes.
The flight time between Cooktown and Atherton is not available as there are no direct flights between the two cities. However, the quickest flight is from Cooktown Airport to Cairns Airport, which takes 45 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Atherton. There are 54+ hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices to suit different budgets. Prices start at $82 per night, and you can choose from a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts.