Mossman Gorge & Surrounds

North of Cairns to Cooktown

Mossman Gorge 
& Surrounds

Mossman Gorge invites travellers into lush rainforest and living culture, home of the Kuku Yalanji people. Begin your visit at the Cultural Centre with a guided Dreamtime Walk led by Traditional Owners, then explore artworks at nearby Yalanji art galleries, where story, culture and creativity come together.

Rainforest Pathways and Cultural Stories

Mossman Gorge is a place where ancient rainforest and living culture come together. Visitors can join a guided Dreamtime Walk with cultural leaders, hear stories passed down through generations, and explore the creative strength of local artists at nearby Yalanji Arts. This is a place to slow down, walk beneath the canopy, view clear waters and feel the presence of country. These lands are cared for by community and shared with respect and pride.

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Storytelling

Walking in the Footsteps of Dreamtime

By Roy Gibson

Traditional Owner and Elder Roy Gibson is a cultural tourism legend whose vision began at Mossman Gorge, one of the most significant places in the Daintree Rainforest. His journey started with a powerful dream of a rock falling from the mountain and blocking the road, a message he understood as a call to protect the area and guide visitors the right way. From that moment he worked to create a safe and meaningful way for people to experience Kuku Yalanji country, pioneering the first Dreamtime Walks and opening a pathway for others to share knowledge on country.

Roy’s leadership helped shape what exists at Mossman Gorge today including guided walks, cultural experiences and a visitor welcome space where people can learn about ancient plant uses, sacred sites and the values that hold community and country together. This video captures Roy’s voice and legacy, offering deep insight into a place where stories are strong, the rainforest is alive and culture continues to guide the way.

Storytelling

Keeping Culture Strong Through Art

By Karen Gibson

Karen Gibson is a nationally acclaimed artist and Chairperson of Yalanji Arts, where stories are carried through canvas, colour and culture. Based in Mossman Gorge, Karen’s work reflects deep connection to rainforest country, traditional knowledge and the lived experiences of her community.

In this video, Karen shares what it means to keep culture strong through art and leadership, continuing a legacy grounded in both community governance and creative expression. As Chairperson, she supports local artists to grow, share stories and build futures through art. Her voice is both creative and authoritative, connecting visitors to country through powerful visual storytelling and the strength of First Nation women.

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Photo Gallery

Nature and Artistry Captured

A glimpse into the cultural heart of Mossman Gorge, from the Dreamtime Walk to the creative expression found in Yalanji Arts. Stories, artworks and rainforest paths come together.

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Experiences

Key Experiences

Take rainforest walks through Mossman Gorge and visit nearby art galleries where local artists share creativity inspired by country.

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Indigenous Art Centres
Indigenous Art Centres

Yalanji Arts

View and purchase artworks created in Mossman Gorge and exhibited in Port Douglas, where local artists share rainforest-inspired stories through painting, weaving, and cultural expression.

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Tours
Tours

Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre

Join a guided Dreamtime Walk led by local storytellers, sharing knowledge of culture, plants, bush foods and sacred sites in the rainforest surrounding Mossman Gorge.

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Travel and Preparation

Begin your visit at the Cultural Centre, where shuttles depart regularly to the Gorge. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and respect cultural signage and protocols while on country.

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Shuttle to the Gorge
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Local Art Galleries
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Respecting Country
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Guided Experiences
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Swimming and Safety
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Crocodile Safety
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Weather and What to Bring
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