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Authentic Indigenous Cultural Tour Including Scenic River Cruise

5 (51)
Cairns, AU
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Authentic Indigenous Cultural Tour Including Scenic River Cruise

5 (51)
Cairns, AU
Share
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Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Authentic Indigenous Hands On Country Cultural Tour. Led by the knowledgeable Mandingalbay Yidinji Rangers, this 3-hour experience takes place on the traditional lands of East Trinity Reserve, just a short boat ride from Cairns Marina. Prepare to be amazed as you witness a traditional welcome to country smoking ceremony and learn about the remarkable Indigenous Protected Area. For the past decade, the Traditional Owners have worked tirelessly alongside scientists and National Park rangers to conserve and protect the area's unique mangrove wetland. Step away from modern life as you immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Mandingalbay Yidinji Peoples. This 100% Indigenous-owned and operated business offers a captivating journey into Indigenous heritage and conservation efforts. Don't miss the chance to connect with this extraordinary country and culture.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 3 hours
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Authentic Indigenous welcome and cleansing ceremony
  • Tour of Indigenous Protected Area with Indigenous Rangers
  • Guided walk through Mandingalbay Yidinji Bush supermarket and pharmacy
  • Enjoy light refreshments including coconut damper and fresh fruit
  • Experience the beauty of East Trinity Reserve and its unique mangrove wetlands
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Coffee and/or tea
  • 15 Minute River Cruise across Trinity Inlet to Hills Creek Mangrove Forest

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More about this experience

Introduction


Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Australia with the Authentic Indigenous Hands On Country Cultural Tour including a Cleansing Ceremony. This remarkable experience takes you to the East Trinity Reserve, just a quick boat ride from the Cairns Marina. Led by the knowledgeable Mandingalbay Yidinji Rangers, this tour offers a unique insight into the Indigenous Protected Area, where nature conservation and cultural preservation collide in perfect harmony.

What to expect?


Throughout the 3-hour guided tour, you can anticipate a truly immersive adventure. The journey begins with a warm welcome and an authentic smoking ceremony, inviting you to connect with the ancient traditions of the Mandingalbay Yidinji people. Your experience continues with a tour of the Indigenous Protected Area, where you will learn about the ongoing conservation efforts led by the Indigenous Rangers. Delve into the secrets of the lush mangrove wetlands and witness its flourishing ecosystem come to life once again. A guided walk through the Mandingalbay Yidinji Bush supermarket and pharmacy will introduce you to the remarkable healing properties of the surrounding flora. To conclude, enjoy some light refreshments including coconut damper, tea, and fresh fruit, and take away memories that will last a lifetime.

Who is this for?


This extraordinary tour is designed for travelers seeking a meaningful and authentic connection with Australia's Indigenous cultures. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious to explore diverse cultural traditions, this experience welcomes all. The Mandingalbay Yidinji Rangers warmly invite individuals and groups of all ages and backgrounds to embark on this enlightening journey. By embracing inclusivity and fostering cross-cultural understanding, they aim to create a magical experience that resonates with everyone.

Why book this?


Uncover the magic of Australia's Indigenous heritage with this once-in-a-lifetime tour. What sets the Authentic Indigenous Hands On Country Cultural Tour apart is its deep-rooted connection to both the land and the people. Led by the Mandingalbay Yidinji Rangers, an Indigenous-owned and operated business, this immersive experience allows you to step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in their rich cultural traditions. The dedication to preserving and conserving the Indigenous Protected Area is evident, as you witness the stunning rejuvenation of the wetlands and mangroves. Be captivated by their stories, rituals, and profound wisdom as you forge a personal bond with their ancestral lands.

Good to know


As you embark on this journey, it's important to note that this tour is not just a mere glimpse into Indigenous culture but a genuine opportunity to learn, understand, and actively participate. The Mandingalbay Yidinji Rangers encourage respectful engagement, ensuring a safe space for cultural exchange. Please come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as you will be exploring diverse natural environments. The tour includes light refreshments to keep you energized throughout the adventure. With return transfers provided, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in every aspect of this captivating experience.

Reviews


Travelers who have embarked on the Authentic Indigenous Hands On Country Cultural Tour have been enthralled by the depth of knowledge, warmth, and authenticity displayed by the Mandingalbay Yidinji Rangers. Guests have marveled at the pristine beauty of the Indigenous Protected Area and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from the Traditional Owners themselves. Many praised the captivating storytelling, the enlightening guided walk, and the overall exceptional organization of the tour. Reviews consistently mention the profound impact this cultural experience had on their understanding and appreciation of Australia's Indigenous heritage.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Cairns

3 Hour Guided Eco Cultural Tour - Board our new river cruise vessel for a ride across Trinity Inlet from the Cairns Marina. - Authentic Mandingalbay Yidinji welcome and cleansing smoking ceremony - Tour of an Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) and learn about the conservation programs conducted by Indigenous Rangers. - 20 minute guided walk discovering the Mandingalbay Yidinji Bush supermarket and pharmacy. - Light Refreshments (coconut damper, tea, and fresh fruit). - Return Transfers.

Reviews

(51)

5 (51)

J7J8J

Great tour experiencing local traditional culture and stories. On the boat ride across, local landmarks around Cairns harbour and creation stories were explained, the various Indigenous tribe names and delineations of their boundaries. Arriving at an award-winning shelter constructed within the Mandingalbay Indigenous Protected Area, we found out more about the Traditional Owners' efforts to overcome high levels of acid sulphate degradation from past sugarcane land clearing. The area is now close to being restored, after decades of hard work in conjunction with scientists. We then boarded a bus and visited the Ranger Station, where a traditional welcome and cleansing smoke ceremony were performed. Ladies get a special clay face treatment as well! A nearby guided bushwalk uncovered Indigenous customs, bush foods, tools and medicines - make sure to wear sturdy covered shoes and plenty of insect repellent. Morning tea awaited us afterwards, consisting of fresh scones, jam & cream, seasonal fruit, tea and coffee. Highly recommended tour for someone seeking an authentic local experience that is out of the ordinary.

Freedom31091985367

This 2.5 tour consists of meeting an aboriginal ranger who talks about his family's background and short work in the forest with an aboriginal guide who points out medicinal plants used by the Aboriginals. We were expecting more. Not worth the money.

roelandj2023

We had an amazing morning during the tour. We started with the boat ride and since we were with a small group there was more then enough time to ask any question. Our guide Barbara explained a lot about the Nation. After the boat ride we drove to the station and uncle Vic told more about the history of the people living on the land. We also learned more about native plants, food and medicine. Thank you all for the great experience. We absolutely recommend this great tour

210juniorj

We learned so much in a short time and really appreciate this genuine experience. All of the staff were friendly, open, informative and so knowledgeable. Thank you so much for today. I’ve never been able to experience Aboriginal culture like I did today. Thank you!

Wander17852089500

I had a wonderful day learning about the Mandingalbay Yidinji people. Brenda and Jermaya were particularly fantastic, they were informative, fun and engaging. Particularly loved Jermaya's analogy of the forest as a free supermarket. All guides we encountered were passionate and charismatic.

johncT5410VT

Yesterday after 2 earlier false starts my wife and I partook in this tour and so so glad we did. The highlight of our stay in Cairns. The tour was so natural and informative and the tour young tour guides Brenda and ? were absolutely fantastic-they were genuine and spoke from the heart. They told us stories of not only their background but their ancestors elders aunties and uncles. We got to see and hear about many native edible foods and medicines. Highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to know more about the first peoples and their culture and traditions.

kylieh282

Such an amazing opportunity to learn and be welcomed to the lands of the Mandingalbay Yidinji people. The day I took the tour was rainy so the itinerary adapted to the situation, but this was handled with ease and grace. We were so lucky to see a crocodile and brolga while in transit from Cairns. The tour was a wonderful sharing of knowledge on the land, history and experiences of the Indigenous peoples of this area. Absolutely recommend as a must do.

68juttae

Very nice operator, a family business that acts great. Unfortunately we didn’t have the smoking ceremony.

theriman

The Traditional Owners share local Indigenous history and culture in this beautiful tour. A short cruise, scenic drive through bush land and then a walk through native flora and fauna is finished off with the best damper I’ve had!

O2136UPmarkd

Fabulous and highly informative. Plus getting to hear the language and experience a welcome was wonderful.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-04-27 17:23