1map logoGo to main page

Cooktown, Queensland to Mackay, Queensland from AU$91: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cooktown, Australia
to
Mackay, Australia

How to Get from Cooktown to Mackay: 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.

$91 by busBest price
791 kmDistance
5h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cooktown to Mackay 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
Plane
Average Duration
6h  49m
Estimated price
AU$165-457
Recommended
Company
Trans North Bus & Coach
Bus
Train
Average Duration
16h  34m
Estimated price
AU$91-1.3
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 791 km
Duration: 5h 55m

See more options

Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
12h  5m
Estimated price
AU$58-84
Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
12h  25m
Estimated price
AU$77-181
Company
Trans North Bus & Coach
Bus
Average Duration
17h  35m
Estimated price
AU$103-155
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
13h  27m
Estimated price
AU$134-194
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
11h  49m
Estimated price
AU$142-454
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
AU$226-892
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cooktown to Mackay

The journey from Cooktown to Mackay offers a scenic transition from the rugged beauty of the Cape York Peninsula to the bustling coastal charm of Central Queensland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mackay

Mackay boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Mackay City Centre
• Home to shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Vibrant nightlife and cultural events.
North Mackay
• Family-friendly parks and recreational areas.
• Close to beautiful beaches and nature reserves.
South Mackay
• Known for its leafy streets and quiet atmosphere.
• Easy access to local amenities and markets.

Best Times To Visit Mackay's Attractions

Maximize your Mackay experience by visiting at strategic times for each attraction.

Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens
The mornings, especially on weekdays, offer peaceful strolls among blooming flora.
Bluewater Lagoon
Visit early in the day, before noon, to enjoy the space with fewer crowds.
Artspace Mackay
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are quieter, providing a relaxing atmosphere to appreciate the exhibits.

Mackay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackay enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor activities. The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for visiting, as milder temperatures enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Mackay

At The Austral Hotel, savor a delicious barramundi with a tropical twist, showcasing local ingredients that highlight Mackay's coastal charm. This vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu offer a stark contrast to Cooktown's more laid-back dining scene, elevating your culinary experience.

Cooktown - Mackay operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cooktown and Mackay, 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.tnbc.com.au/

Bus from Cooktown to Cairns

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
AU$45-64

Bus from Cooktown to Smithfield

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
AU$38-64
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Mackay

Average Duration
12h 5m
Estimated price
AU$58-84
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Mackay

Average Duration
12h 25m
Estimated price
AU$77-181
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Cairns Central Station to Mackay

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$45-84

Train from Proserpine to Mackay

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$7.8-14
Plane
Website
https://www.hinterlandaviation.com.au/

Plane from Cooktown Airport (CTN) to Mackay (MKY)

Average Duration
6h 49m
Estimated price
AU$155-466
Website
https://www.qantas.com/

Plane from Cooktown Airport (CTN) to Mackay (MKY) via Cairns

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
AU$259-841

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Mackay (MKY)

Average Duration
6h 16m
Estimated price
AU$220-505
Website
https://skytrans.com.au/

Plane from Cooktown Airport (CTN) to Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
AU$259-518

Plane from Cairns to Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
AU$155-401
Website
https://virginaustralia.com/

Plane from Cooktown Airport (CTN) to Mackay (MKY) via Cairns, Brisbane

Average Duration
10h 35m
Estimated price
AU$155-466
Website
https://jetstar.com/

Plane from Cooktown Airport (CTN) to Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) via Cairns, Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
AU$155-505

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cooktown to Mackay.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cooktown and Mackay is 759.6 km by road. If you are traveling by bus and train, it takes approximately 17 hours and 4 minutes. Alternatively, if you decide to fly, the travel time is around 8 hours and 41 minutes. If you opt to drive, it takes about 13 hours and 27 minutes to reach Cooktown from Mackay, and 18 hours and 34 minutes to reach Mackay from Cooktown by bus.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Cooktown to Mackay is by bus, with prices ranging from $85 to $150, and a travel time of approximately 18 hours and 35 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly and then drive, which takes around 5 hours and 2 minutes and costs between $290 and $550.
The prices of a bus ticket between Mackay and Cooktown can range from $107 to $302.
To travel from Cooktown to Mackay without public transportation, you can drive the distance, which is approximately 1047.7 km. The journey takes around 13 hours and 27 minutes. It's important to note that the prices for a car rental vary, but typically range between $130 and $200.
To travel from Cooktown to Mackay without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then a train. This journey usually takes around 17 hours and may cost between $80 and $170. Another option is to take a flight, which takes approximately 8 hours and 41 minutes. However, if you prefer a road trip, you can drive from Cooktown to Mackay in approximately 13 hours and 27 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct bus route from Cooktown to Mackay, with a transfer in Cairns. The journey takes approximately 18 hours and 34 minutes. The bus services are operated by Trans North Bus & Coach and Greyhound Australia.
The flight between Cooktown and Mackay typically takes around 13 hours and 15 minutes with two stopovers. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary between $155 and $411, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Mackay. With over 72 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices for their stay. Prices for hotels in Mackay start at $65, offering budget-friendly options for visitors.