cape york trip cost

The Beginner’s Guide For Driving To Cape York: Everything You Need To Know To Before You Go

Driving to Cape York, the northernmost part of mainland Australia, from Cairns in Far North Queensland is considered one of the wildest and most remote journeys Australia has to offer. A true bucket-list adventure that requires planning, preparation , and determination to tick it off. 

As more paved roads are completed and more cell towers are erected, the prospect of driving Cape York becomes more and more accessible every year. But even with these advances, the opportunities for wild, unsupported overlanding adventures are limitless in this vast wilderness.

If you are planning a Cape York trip or just dreaming about your own Cairns to Cape York 4wd adventure, we have several tips and answers to Frequently Asked Questions for tackling the Cape York peninsula you might like to know before you go.

Here is our complete list of what to know before you go to Cape York, to help you prepare or plan a trip to Cape York.

Do I Need a 4WD to Drive from Cairns to Cape York?

Even along the major ‘highway’, long stretches of the rough unsealed road remain. Corrugation, dust holes, and dips make for a bumpy drive and can be catastrophic for conventional vehicles.

If you do plan to tackle Cape York with a 2WD stick to the PDR and take it slow. We wouldn’t advise it, but hey, it’s your Cape York QLD adventure!

If you don’t have a 4WD but would like to give the Cape York trip a try you can rent a four-wheel-drive out of Cairns.

Do I Need to Be an Experienced 4WD Enthusiast, Offroader, Overlander, Mechanic, and Camping Fanatic to Survive Driving to Cape York?

It helps, but no.

You just need a give-it-a-go attitude, a little courage, and the guts to jump on the UHF radio to ask for help when you run into trouble.

Challenging though it might be, contrary to popular belief, Cape York is a trip that is accessible to everyone even four-wheel-driving novices like ourselves.

You will certainly learn a lot on the way, and there are plenty of enthusiasts and experts along the way ready to help and share their wisdom with newbies.

You might find that you are a hardcore off-roader at heart or discover, like us, you will likely never be spotted white-knuckling it around the local 4WD track. Nevertheless, don’t let your lack of experience deter you from this trip. Just make sure you are well prepared and well informed before you head out!

Should I Take My Caravan?

We wouldn’t!

Regular weekender caravans can easily be damaged driving to Cape York. We have heard the stories and seen the evidence of many a caravan that has left behind various bits and pieces or simply broken in half on ill-fated trips to the Cape.

That being said, if you have an off-road caravan and you are an old hand at off-roading with it then perhaps the trek is for you. We did, however, see plenty of people, including overlanding experts, on Cape York rebuilding their caravan after being banged around on the rough dirt tracks.

When Is the Best Time to Drive from Cairns to Cape York?

Dry season.

The best time of the year to travel from Cairns to Cape York is during the dry season, in fact, it is the only time. Most of the Cape is cut off from the rest of Australia during the wet season and driving to Cape York is impossible. The Cape York dry season runs from May to October each year and the Cape York wet season from November to April each year.

How Long Does It Take to Drive from Cairns to Cape York?

The distance from Cairns to Cape York is some 2,000 kilometers return, but with the condition of the roads, driving times are often longer than expected.

We spent three weeks driving to Cape York but many people make the journey from Cairns to Cape York in two weeks or even one.

To give yourself enough time to stop and enjoy the sights, and not spend every hour rattling around in your car burning through expensive fuel, I can’t imagine doing the trip in less than 10 days. And if you have more time, you could easily spend a month or more here exploring the trails, parks, and communities of the cape.

Is the Road from Cairns to Cape York Sealed?

While there are some sections on the way to Pajinka at the tip of the Cape that are sealed, the majority of the road is unpaved. The drive to Cooktown from Cairns along the inland road is fully paved as well as the road to Laura. After Laura, there are sections along the way that are unpaved which are best traversed with a 4WD.

Do I Need to Carry Spare Fuel?

Should you? Probably.

To get between fuel stations along major roads, you do not need to carry spare fuel when driving to Cape York. But you must be vigilant about filling up at every opportunity. It also means that if something goes wrong and you need to go off course, double back or a fuel station doesn’t have any fuel, you will be at the mercy of more prepared travelers.

If you plan to journey off the Peninsula Development Road or tackle some of the 4WD tracks that Cape York is renowned for, then carrying extra fuel is definitely recommended.  

Fuel is available at the following roadhouses along the PDR:

• Palmerson Roadhouse
• Lakeland Roadhouse
• Hann Roadhouse
• Musgrave Roadhouse
• Archer River Roadhouse
• Lockhart River
• Bramwell Junction
• Jardine Ferry

Fuel is typically 60 – 90 cents more than it is in major cities. And we found it to be most expensive is in the middle of the Cape and cheapest at the bottom and at the top.

Do I Need to Have a Radio? 

No, but it’s a good idea!

A UHF radio is not a requirement for driving Cape York, but it can provide piece of mind as an important piece of safety equipment.

Cheap to buy and free to use, UHF or CB radio will allow you to communicate with nearby vehicles also equipped with a radio. On the Cape’s narrow and treacherous tracks they can be used to communicate traffic, road conditions, or, in an emergency, an SOS.

If you are planning on tackling some of the more remote areas of the Cape York Peninsula or a few of the more harrowing Cape York 4WD tracks, it is probably wise to ensure your vehicle is equipped with a UHF radio.

Channel 40 is used by truck drivers, and channel 10 is recommended as the 4WD channel and it can be helpful to monitor these channels when driving in the Cape as well as to frequently set your radio to scan.

Should I Carry Recovery Equipment for Driving to Cape York? 

A fundamental requirement for driving Cape York is carrying at least basic recovery gear with you. In a place as treacherous and remote as the cape, getting stuck is common, and the wait times for rescue long. Having the ability to be able to self-recover will come in handy if you do find yourself stuck.

For a list of the recommended recovery equipment you should carry on your drive from Cairns to Cape York check out our Cape York Trip Checklist !

Do I Need to Carry Spare Parts Driving from Cairns to Cape York?

If you do break down, not only could it be a long time waiting on a tow into the nearest community, but waiting on spare parts could take weeks, not to mention be extremely costly. One of the best tips for Cape York is to make sure you pack the essentials. Some basics include:

• Tyre repair kit
• Air compressor
• Drive belts
• Fuel filter

It is also wise to carry the necessary tools like screw drivers and socket wrenches in case you need to use those spare parts. For a complete list of spare parts for Cape York, check out our Cape York Trip checklist !

Will I Have a Mobile Signal Driving from Cairns to Cape York?

For the most part, no. You won’t have service while driving to Cape York. There are some communities and hotspots that have 4g service but don’t expect to be reachable every day. The cell service, however, in these 4g areas was fast and reliable. We were able to work in these places using video conferencing without problems. Places we stopped with service all had fuel, supplies, and good camping.

• Noah Beach in the Daintree (on the beach only)
• Myall Beach in the Daintree (on the beach only)
• Wroonga Point
• Pajinka (intermittent H+ service)

Another great tip for Cape York, if being connected is important for you, consider traveling with a mobil e signal repeater. A mobile signal repeater will boost the 3G or 4G signal in the area allowing you to stay connected. While a repeater is expensive, it’s a handy piece of equipment if you need to be online.

Does Google Maps Work on the Cape?

Google Maps isn’t the most reliable navigational system on the way up the Cape. We recommend stopping in at the Information Center in Cooktown and grabbing an old school paper Cape York Peninsula map. Or, you can pony up the $100 to purchase the online HEMA map which is designed for 4WD enthusiasts. 

For more information on how to plan your route from Cairns to Cape York, check out our step-by-step Cape York trip planning guide!

Do I Need to Carry Cash to Cape York?

Although we carried cash with us, we did not use it on our trip. Everywhere we went had card facilities. However, given the limited infrastructure up here, if the internet goes down, it could be a long drive to the nearest cash point.

There are a handful of ATMs around such as the one found at the Umagico Supermarket or the Lockhart River Retail Store, but it is unlikely you will be in these specific locations when you need the cash.

In our opinion, it never hurts to have some cash in case the card reader malfunctions. You don’t want to be left stranded unable to pay for gas or other necessary supplies.

How Available Are Supplies in the Cape?

General stores are available at Laura, Coen, and Lockhart River, and supermarkets can be found at Weipa and Bamaga. Limited supplies are available at the other roadhouses along the way.

With that being said, supplies out here come at a premium and selection is limited with the exception of the supermarkets. Plan your meals ahead and take as many required supplies with you as you can.

We planned out our meals for our whole three-week trip and took enough canned and dry ingredients to last the whole journey. We also took fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, and meat for our first week. After that, we restocked on milk, eggs, fruit, and veggies when we could. Forward planning meant that we didn’t have to pay a fortune.

Are There Restaurants Along the Way?

You won’t find fancy sit-down meals or fast food joints like McDonalds driving to Cape York. But what you will find are pubs serving counter meals, roadhouses serving burgers, and caravan parks selling fish and chips, pizzas, and standard pub food.

Just as with most things driving to Cape York, expect to pay a bit more for meals “out” than you would otherwise. But no trip to the Cape is complete without sampling at least a few roadhouse burgers along the way. Our favorite places to eat in Cape York were the chicken burger at Bramwell Junction and the fish and chips at the cafe in Portland Roads.

Is Drinking Water Available in Cape York?

Drinking water is available in Coen, Weipa, and Bamaga. We do, however, recommend that you can carry enough water for at least a couple of days for you and your party. You never know what may happen on the Cape.

Can You Take Alcohol to Cape York?

If there was one thing that surprised me during my Cape York trip planning was the existence of alcohol restrictions in Cape York . There are alcohol restrictions in 19 communities in Queensland of which 9 are in Cape York. The degree of alcohol restrictions varies based on each community.

Dry communities are communities where no alcohol is permitted.

These communities are located primarily on the western coast of the Cape. Lockhart River, on the eastern coast, is also a dry community, however, there are certain exemptions for “bona fide travelers” passing through on the Frenchman’s Track or the Portland Roads Road. But, if you deviate off these roads to stop in the restricted community even for fuel, you can be subject to hefty fines up to $50,000.

The Bloomfield Track from the Daintree to Cooktown also passes through a no-alcohol community for which the “bona fide travelers” exception applies.

Other Cape York aboriginal communities place restrictions on the amount of alcohol you can possess in your vehicle at one time. These restrictions are per vehicle and not per person. The restrictions range from 1L of wine or 30 cans of beer to as much as 2L of wine plus 90 cans of beer.

Make sure to check the most up-to-date information available posted by the Queensland Government before stocking up on grog for the Cape.

Can I Buy Alcohol in Cape York?

Alcohol is available at most roadhouses on the PDR although your selection will be limited and the prices steep. Once in the Northern Peninsula Area, alcohol is sold at the Bamaga Pub from 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm each day excluding Sundays. Purchases here are limited based on the alcohol restrictions in place.

Is There Free cape york camping?

There is a lot of free Cape York camping to be had. If you are self-sufficient there is no need to pay for camping once you get above Cooktown. Our favorite free camping from Cairns to Cape York was down by the river just north of Coen, tucked away off the Bamaga Road at Rocky Creek, and perched on the headland at Roonga Point.

What Cape York Accommodation is Available Along the Route?

If camping every night is not for you or if you want to camp somewhere where there are some facilities, there is plenty of accommodation and caravan parks along the way.

• Bramwell Junction Tourist Park
• Bramwell Junction Roadhouse
• Moreton Telegraph Station
• New Mappoon

You can see available accommodations listed on your favorite booking below or use the map to find stays. Be aware, not all hotels, roadhouses, and stays are listed on the big booking sites and you may need to contact them directly.

Find Cape York Accommodation

Are there showers on the drive from cairns to cape york.

All of the roadhouses along the Peninsula Development Road have hot showers available for a small fee (usually $5). And once you reach the top of the cape, there are a number of caravan parks will allow you to shower for a small fee (even if you’re not staying).

Even better than a shower at the end of a hot dusty day driving is cooling off in some of the pristine watering holes on the Cape like Fruit Bat Falls or Eliot Falls.

What Is the Old Telegraph Track?

The Old Telegraph Track or the OTT is one of the most famous tracks on the Cape. It was first cleared in the late 1800s to allow access to the telegraph lines that connected the Cape York Peninsula to the rest of Australia. It was used in this capacity until 1962.

For a long time, the OTT was the only way to get to the top of the Cape. Today, bypass roads allow you to skirt this rough old track, but most people who have done the Cairns to Cape York consider it an integral part of the adventure.

The OTT is a serious four-wheel-drive track but it is not so difficult that first-timers can’t give it a go, at least for some of the tamer sections (for example between Fruit Bat Falls and Sam’s Crossing). There are always plenty of experienced four-wheel drivers on the track, willing to lend a hand instructing and guiding over difficult crossings if you ask.

Do I Need to Book the Jardine River Ferry in Advance?

You just need to show up and pay the fee. Once the ferry attendant wakes up from his nap and notices you are waiting, you will be told to drive onto the barge. Just a short 100 m later, you will be on the other side ready to tackle the last leg of the journey!

The cost $100 which seems steep but the money goes back into the local community and there is plenty of good free camping north of the Jardine so we didn’t feel too hard done by.

Can I Refill or Swap My LPG Gas Cylinder in the Cape?

You can find swap-and-go gas cylinders at Bamaga and Weipa, and refill gas at the fuel stations in Bamaga and Seisa. Plan to pay a little more than you would at home!

We hope that after reading all of our FAQs about driving to Cape York, you are better prepared and ready to take on this amazing Australian road trip.

If you have any questions or think we have missed some important information you learned on your last trip to the northern tip of Australia, let us know below!

Want to save these FAQs on driving to Cape York for later? Pin it!

Out of a love of travel we met in a hostel in Estonia, one snowy Christmas night. Eighteen months later, we quit our day jobs in search of a more nomadic life style together.

Five years later, we are still traveling. Between us we have explored more than 80 countries, undertaken countless #vanlife adventures in more than 12 countries on 4 different continents. Most recently we have been learning to sail on our little boat whisper in the Mediterranean, falling in love with sailing and the live aboard lifestyle. While we travel and work work remotely as digital nomads.

Through this website and our vlog we hope to share some of the things we learn about the off-the-beaten path destinations we visit, about van life, sail life and working remotely from the road.

We are the Vanabonds, these are our tales.

Eddie & Kelli

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

10 Comments

• Pingback: Cairns to Cape Tribulation & Daintree | Drive or Tour? - Queensland Expert
• Pingback: Cairns To Cape Tribulation & Daintree | Drive Or Tour?

Just a heads up local around Cape York don’t like tourist calling Cape York the Tip they prefer you call it Pajinka also its only 13 hours and 31 minutes to Cape York not 10+ days unless you go sight seeing. I know I lived there for 2 months and moving back up i a few weeks

Hi Alex and Di,

Thanks for the feedback!

I will update the post to include that name!

Regarding the drive time, this is indeed information for tourists planning a trip, not a direct drive.

Wow this was great info. Is the Barge $100 each way?

No, it is for a return trip, just make sure you don’t lose your ticket! And, I am glad you found this information helpful. Have a great time in Cape York, it is absolutely stunning!

Thank great we l love your information very help full. Can’t wait to go.

We are glad you found it helpful. The trip to the Cape is amazing, enjoy!

Awesome info without all the BS, Cheers R

Glad you found it helpful!

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Cape York is calling: Planning a trip to The Tip

Hannah Statham

Ready to tackle one of Australia’s most remote landscapes, Cape York? Just you, a car and 1,200km of untamed, World Heritage-listed, 180 million year-old rugged rainforest beauty – aka The Tip.

Like most good adventures, this one is 90% preparation and 10% perspiration (seriously, it gets hot up here) – so you’ll want to do PhD-levels of research before you make tracks up the peninsula.

If you’re ready to head north, triple check you’re covered with this Cape York guide:

Service? What Service?

No phone service? A view this good is better uninterrupted.

If you were planning to Insta-story your entire trip from Cairns to Cape York, we’ve got some bad news for your followers. Cape York has limited phone reception and expensive pay-per-use WiFi, that is, if you find any at all.

The only glimmer of 3G hope will be found with Telstra, so if you’re not driving in a convoy, hire a UHF radio because you can’t rely on your smartphone for much else than a camera after crossing the Daintree River.

Double Trouble[shoot]

Load 'em up - you don't need to pack light for a trip to The Tip.

You only need to look at the vacant car bodies along the Peninsula Development Road to see the kind of spanner Cape York can throw into your planning works. Don’t join the bad luck stories, come prepared with a pair of spare tyres, extra tank of fuel and enough drinking water to stay hydrated in case you get stuck and need to wait for help.

Scare tactics aside, you don’t need to brace yourself for Cape-York-ageddon – if you do go through a set of tyres, you’ll still find mechanics to replace a set along the way.

Fuel can be few and far between

Plan your trip to map out the best fuel stations and roadhouses along the way.

Contrary to what Cape York horror stories will tell you, there are fuel stations and roadhouses stocking both petrol and diesel along the way (in fact, the longest distance between bowsers is 140km). Major towns like Weipa will have a couple of different fuel service centres, so you can even get fussy over your ethanol of choice. That said, it’s a competitive market and prices will vary on the Peninsula, so don’t expect to call RACQ having found the cheapest fill-up in Australia.

This trip has as much variety in its road surfaces as a mixed bag of lollies, so the amount of fuel you’ll chew through differs day-to-day. It’s recommended you throw out your usual fuel-range calculator and pack some liquid ‘go’ in the boot.

You won't be eating like an astronaut

Take a break at the Archer River Roadhouse and tuck into the best burgers in Cape York.

Food isn’t dehydrated, preserved or pickled up here so you don’t need to pack your car with enough food to outlast an apocalypse. Stock your groceries up in Weipa, Seisia and Bamaga and eat fresh produce on this road trip to the top.

What’s more, if you don’t feel like cooking, roadhouses along the way will sell takeaway food like burgers, snags and chips to sate whatever hunger pangs ail you.

Don't BYO booze

Grab a drink at the famous Lions Den Hotel just outside of Cooktown.

Just because you like a beer after a hard day bouncing over Cape York’s corrugations, doesn’t mean you can crack the top off a tallie with gay abandon. Booze bans run across certain parts of the Cape and heavy fines apply if caught with alcohol.

Technically, you can travel with more alcohol than the limit if you can prove you’re a ‘bona fide traveller’. If you choose to go down this road, you’ll need to prove you’re not a resident in a restricted area, nor is your destination or drive route within one.

Keep it simple, pick up your grog once you’re outside the booze bans, or risk a fine.

Leave nothing but footprints and tyre tracks

Keep The Cape beautiful and clean up after yourself when travelling through the region.

It goes without saying you must take your rubbish with you, leaving a trail of nothing but cleanliness behind your 4WD tracks. Some (but not all) campsites and roadhouses provide rubbish bins, so you don’t need to worry about becoming a rubbish tip before you make it The Tip.

There are many things you can do to ensure you are travelling consciously through this pristine environment, including only having fires in designated areas if it’s safe to do so, ensuring you are not illegally accessing private land and only camping in designated areas where you have received prior permission or made a booking for, including through Queensland Parks

The best time to go

The top of Australia.

The best time to embark on an adventure to Cape York is during the cooler months and June through to October provide ideal conditions. Try any other time of year and you might just find the roads closed and flooded in.

You can expect busier roads during school holidays – but don’t worry, you won’t find a traffic jam. Only about 60,000 visitors each year make the trip to the top.

Prepare your pets

Pets are welcome in some parts of The Cape

We don’t recommend bringing your pet on your trip, as domestic animals are prohibited from entering National Parks, and you’ll come across over 10 of them throughout Cape York. Before you plonk the pooch in the car, consider whether you can leave them with a friend or pet-sitter. If you do bring you beloved pet, please keep them on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of native wildlife and be sure to hash out your national park exploring plan.

Be cautious about the crocs (and all other wild animals)

Keep a safe distance from all wildlife you encounter along the way.

If a trip to the pointy end of Australia sparks an internal hype-reel of you, in khaki, wrestling a croc, it’s time to press pause. You’ll want to keep your wits about you, following all caution signs because crocs don’t just live in these waters, they hunt in em’ too. Be alert, not alarmed – even though these prehistoric creatures are hunters, chances are you won’t even see one.

Both fresh and saltwater crocs are found in the Cape’s waterways, so don’t linger on the edge of rivers and creeks, only go swimming in well-known croc-free areas, and if you do spot a croc … stay well away.

Other animals with smaller teeth are much easier to keep at bay with insect repellent.

Give your big rig a makeover before you go

Be sure to fit your rig with the essentials to get yourself from A to B.

Having a 4WD doesn’t mean you’re set to hit the road. Adding some extra oomph to your vehicle will make your trip safer – it’s recommended to install a snorkel (particularly if driving diesel), tyre repair kit, and good suspension setup with a two-inch lift kit because up here, it doesn’t matter what you’re driving, when you’re bonnet high in the Wenlock River, it’s all about clearance.

Make sure to pack rescue equipment too – snatch straps, basic tools and rated shackles to get yourself out of any situations where you find yourself stuck.

Swap your roadside assistance to comprehensive because you won’t want to be paying by the kilometre to be towed out of this terrain either.

Dress the part

Pack for all weather conditions, but most importantly for a dip in the water at Fruit Bat Falls.

Once your 4WD looks the part, it’s your turn. Camping attire should top your luggage list and we suggest you pack a few extra outfits. The trip to the tip is unpredictable and you’re bound to get wet and muddy at some point during the day, either from getting out to help push your own car out of a crossing or to help out someone else in a pickle.

You won’t want to forget your swimmers either, or as Queenslander’s say, “togs”, especially once you see Fruit Bat Falls’ emerald green waters.

Looking to opt for an easier route?

There are options available for drivers to take bypass roads for a smoother journey.

Whether you’re a 4WD fanatic, or a city slicker ticking off their Tropical North Queensland bucket list, there’s no shame in opting for a safer route. The Old Telegraph Track might be famous, but it’s not for everyone.

If you’re not feeling confident, it’s always preferable to take an alternative bypass route. Use a detailed Hema Map to navigate your way and find a route that matches your adrenaline level.

You don't have to prepare a thing if you don't want to

There are a variety of tours available to make it to The Cape.

Not one for steering the wheel, packing for days, or prepping with this list? You can still experience the trip of a lifetime without the stress of responsibility – just join a Cape York tour or tag along to the top.

Simply book a seat in one of the many tour companies that take off from Cairns such as Tagalong Tours of Australia and  Cockatours . Voila! Cape York without any of that pesky preparation.

Tropical North Queensland has a calendar filled with exciting events for you to explore! See what’s coming up next.

Cape York Marathon

A marathon from Bamaga to the northernmost point of Australia’s mainland!

Weipa Fishing Classic

Cape York’s premier and most exciting fishing competition and fun for all the family!

Cooktown Discovery Festival

Highlights includethe re-enactment of Captain Cook’s landing, Endeavour Ball, family entertainment and lantern parade.

Laura Races and Rodeo

An action-packed weekend with something for all the family to enjoy.

Oak Park Races

Held each year at Oak Park station, professional horse racing, bar and food facilities and children’s activities.

Find out more

Everything else you need to know about your trip to The Tip

5 Unmissable sights in the Torres Strait Islands

Between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, there’s a fascinating world of unforgettable adventures to be had. Journey to this culturally unique part of Australia and you’ll find vibrant Indigenous communities celebrating their strong connection to land and sea.

No car, no worries – try these Cape York Tours

Where else but Cape York can you stand on the tip of Australia, discover one of the world’s oldest rainforests in the world and travel on roads few even dare to tread? Just because Australia’s last frontier is calling, doesn’t mean you need to travel it alone.

For the adventure of a lifetime, without any of the ‘going solo’ stress, join one of these guided Cape York tours.

Add these beautiful Cooktown beaches to your bucket list

Craving sun, sand and salty air? There’s plenty of beautiful beaches to explore in Cooktown. With nothing but wide-open space, it’s easy to let your mind and adventurous spirit wander here.

8 Cooktown and Cape York waterfalls to discover

Refresh yourself in nature’s swimming pools, sliding into these waterfalls and waterholes across Cooktown and Cape York.

Cargo ship your way to Cape York and the Torres Strait Islands

We’ve rounded up the top reasons why you need to get your ship together and get on the MV Trinity Bay to Cape York and the Torres Strait Islands.

10 things to do in Cooktown

Welcome to Cooktown, the Tropical North Queensland town whose history and heritage draws 25,000 visitors to it each year.

Head north for these epic Cape York events

Welcome to Cape York, an incredibly diverse region sprinkled with rugged national parks, pristine waterways, secluded beaches, rich Indigenous heritage and some of the best events you’ll find.

Cape York’s big three national parks

If you’re looking for the ultimate national park experience, there’s no better place in the world than the tip of Australia. With ten national or regional parks to choose from, here’s a closer look at three of the most popular.

Experience an incredible Aboriginal rock art tour

Discover what true connection to country feels like at a 20,000-year-old Aboriginal rock art gallery with Jarramali Rock Art Tours. Fly in via a scenic helicopter or jump in a 4WD with a Traditional Owner guide for the full overnight experience.

Cooktown accommodation guide

Considering exploring is in Cooktown’s DNA, you’ll want to spend a night or two in the capital of Cape York to discover what’s on offer for yourself. This Cooktown accommodation guide will help you choose your perfect home away from home.

Discover The Tip

Jump into a 4WD for an unforgettable journey from Cairns to Cape York.

Privacy Overview

Accessibility, accessibility modes, online dictionary, readable experience, visually pleasing experience, easy orientation.

Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
• May 1, 2024

Compliance status

We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email

Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.

Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.

Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Disability profiles supported in our website

• Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
• Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
• Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
• ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
• Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
• Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

• Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
• Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
• Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
• Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
• Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
• Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
• Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

Browser and assistive technology compatibility

We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).

Notes, comments, and feedback

Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

CAPE YORK TRIP ITINERARY – 10 DAYS TO THE TIP!!

Ten days from Cooktown to Cape York and back via Weipa and the Old Telegraph Track (OTT). A total of 2022km travelled and an EPIC TRIP!

CHEERS – JUSTIN & BEC

When we first hit the road getting to the tip was on our bucket list! It’s one of those locations that’s tarred with adventure! We’d heard all the stories of recoveries, breakdowns, fishing and campfire tales and we were pumped to create our own…. Now, your timing to get up to the Cape is imperative as it can only be done in the dry season from around April-November (depending on the rain). For us, we didn’t want to go in school holidays as it gets very busy and we hate crowded campsites so we hit Cooktown in early September to prepare for the tip.

$$ Firstly, I’ll start off with our budget stats for the trip. $$

Diesel – $542.57 and the most expensive at Jardine River Ferry @ $2 per Litre.

Food –  $350 along the way and we also cleared out our van before we left (about $150 worth of food). The supermarket at Bamaga is fantastic and has everything you’ll need. Groceries are expensive in this area of Australia and we also purchased our drinking water too.

Accomodation – $172 Elim Beach $20p/n – Weipa Caravan Park $35p/n x2 – Punsand Bay Campground $44p/n x2 – Moreton Telegraph Station $20p/n

Alcohol – $180 You definitely need a beer or ten every afternoon at the Cape. The Tavern at Bamaga has some good specials. But do remember there are restrictions on how much grog you can carry up this way.

OUR 4WD SET UP AND CAMPING GEAR

OZtrail Fast Frame 450 Tourer – OZtrail Toilet – 12V Shower – Gas Stove – Sleeping Bags – Camp Chairs – Air Mattresses – Duffle Bags

You can read all about our MAZDA BT50 and how it’s kitted out for touring below……….

TRAVEL AUSTRALIA BUDGET SPREADSHEET

OUR MAZDA BT-50 & SETUP

This is our Rig and how we have set it up!

OUR CAMP ITINERARY -10 NIGHTS

Cook town – elim beach – weipa – bertie creek – logans creek – roonga point – punsand bay – morton telegraph station – cooktown.

COOKTOWN We love this little town. Lots to see and do around the area and it’s the start of your adventure to Cape York. We parked up at the Cooktown Holiday Park. It’s a beautiful park with plenty of shade, large grassy sites and a resort style pool to cool off in.

A small but busy town that is a hub for travellers heading north and south. Cooktown is a great place to not only stock up for your adventures but it also has a lot to see! After parking our van at the BIG4 Cooktown Holiday Park we decided to lay low for a day and do a ton of washing. The amenities are fantastic, staff are beyond friendly and the park itself is a winner!

If your after some Top Notch Seafood while you’re here,  there is a great bloke in town who runs Nicko’s seafood! He does a seafood run every avo through the caravan park so look out for him and make sure you grab some prawns, they are Delicious!! Hit him up when your buying some prawns about leaving your caravan somewhere while you head to the tip!!

Only 30km away you will find, “The Lions Den Hotel”. One of North Queenslands most Iconic Pubs. It provided us a tasty beer while the kids played in the playground. What a pub this is! With it’s quirky memorabilia, a swimming hole out the back and wood fired pizzas to die for, it’s a Mecca for tourists!  It’s a must stop while in the area. With its history and licenced bar what’s not to love.

After a couple of nights preparing for our trip we put our van into storage & stock up on some last minute groceries and we’re ready to hit the road.

We’d highly recommend stopping at Elim Beach on your way up to the Tip. An absolutely magic spot & make sure you check out the coloured sands while your there.  The next day we do a big drive to Weipa, via the battlecamp road. Which was pretty much just a well maintained gravel road, but a great shortcut instead of driving back through Cooktown and Laura.

The road up to Weipa was excellent. It had just been graded and over half of it was bitumen. This place actually surprised us! A little tight knit township with just about everything you could need. Driving into the Weipa caravan park we didn’t expect grass. But you drive through the gates and it was as green as ever, so we found a spot to set our tent up with an ocean view. There is a cafe on site that do a mean pizza, a fantastic pool and a great atmosphere. It was a beaut place to relax so we decided to stay 2 nights. It’s also where you will find the last big shopping centre as you head north. There is a Woolworths, tackle shops, medical centre etc… There is places to pick up a few things as you head further north, but your better off stocking up while your in Weipa.

THE OLD TELEGRAPH TRACK

Woohooo, after leaving Weipa we are stoked to finally hit the Old Telegraph Track. We make a quick pit stop for some fuel and pics at the Bramwell Roadhouse and we’re off!!

The start of the track is pretty tame with just a single vehicle track cutting through the bush with a few washouts and rocky sections along the way. Once you hit Palm Creek, this is where the track really starts to get a bit gnarly. A steep entry and exit into the creek make things a bit tricky. If your towing a trailer, you will need to head to the right to find the chicken track or you will be winching up the exit!!l

FRUITBAT FALLS Our next pit stop was Fruit Bat Falls and an iconic part of the OTT.  The falls are located where the the OTT crosses the PDR(Peninsula Development Road) .A beautiful waterfall that cascades over a ledge into a shallow pool perfect for swimming. We were quick to jump in and have a slash around. The kids loved playing under the waterfall and it really was magic! It wasn’t crowded either so we had plenty of room to enjoy the beautiful refreshing water on a stinking hot day!

As you continue on the northern section of the Tele Track you will soon come across Elliot Falls. Another picturesque waterfall and pool that we admired.There is also a great National Park campsite here if you book ahead. 

LOGANS CREEK

Our next stop was Logans Creek crossing, where you can sit and watch others attempt the water crossing before you of it yourself. We had a big day and decided to pull up and camp here for the night before finishing the track the next day.  

ROONGA POINT What an epic spot this one was and we had it all to ourselves. Beautiful blue waters and great fishing. I managed to catch a few fish and we watched a stunning sunset. Roonga Point is in-between the Croc Tent and Punsand Bay Campground. When you stop in at the Croc Tent for a look, ask them for a mudmap with the campgrounds and tracks on it. It will only cost you a few dollars and well worth it. 

An epic beach camp near the tip of Cape York. Easy to get to, great fishing and it’s a free camp!! So Good!

BAMAGA A great place to stock up, refuel, grab some more beers and do some grocery shopping. Be prepared to pay for expensive fuel here as well as all other items, which is fair enough in this remote part of Oz. The caravan park here is a great place to pull up and fishing off the jetty is a must.

PUNSAND BAY We were pretty excited to stop in here, get some washing done and have a swim in the (bore water) pool. We snagged a site right on the beach and had some amazing views. The restaurant do a fantastic meal and some of the best wood fired pizza’s we’ve had! We were even able to enjoy a few beers while the kids played with other families.

Punsand Bay Campground cost $44 per night and we stayed two as we did our trip to ‘The Tip’ from here.

THE TIP OF AUSTRALIA – PAJINKA

We made it to The Tip and it was a good feeling. Although it’s not  an overly difficult trek, it’s still a lot of km’s and a lot of corrugations to get there. We parked up at the bottom and as it was high tide we had to walk over some rocky outcrop to get to the tip. If you can get there on low tide, heading around the headland on the sand is a bit of a shortcut and it’s magnificent. The walk in was about 15 minutes and the kids all managed well. 

THE WAY BACK Now once you have reached the TIP, the adventure isn’t over just yet!! There is still some great campsites to visit before you head back down.  Here’s a few things to check out before you head back down. SOMERSET BEACH – A great free camp 5 BEACHES DRIVE – A scenic coastal loop that takes you past 5 beaches and back to the PDR.  THE FRENCHMANS TRACK- Another challenging 4wd track that takes you to the east coast & Chiili Beach .  CHILLI BEACH – An amazing campground where rainforest meets the snow white sands of Chilli beach. We didn’t make it there as the winds were howling 70-80km an hour, not ideal for setting up a tent. 

MORETON TELEGRAPH STATION Our last stop on our Cape York trek & this was such a welcoming visit. After all the red dirt we were very excited to pull into a lush green campground. We set up in a camp nestled amongst the bush and it was the perfect way to end out Cape York travels. Our final night here before heading back to Cooktown to pick up our van and continue down the East Coast.

FAVOURITE CAMPS –

BERTIE CREEK ON THE OTT AND ROONGA POINT BEACH CAMP JUST NEAR PUNSAND BAY. 

HOT TIPS!!!

1. DON’T GET TO THE JARDINE RIVER FERRY AT LUNCHTIME. 

2. DO THE WALK TO THE TIP AT LOW TIDE SO YOU CAN WALK AROUND THE BEACH. 

3. TAKE YOUR TIME AND BE SAFE

4. TRY AND DO IT WHEN IT’S NOT BUSY. WE HAD A DREAM RUN UP HERE WITH THE TRACKS MAINLY TO OURSELVES – WE RECKON IT WOULD NOT BE AS ENJOYABLE WHEN THERE IS HEAPS OF TRAFFIC. 

WHAT A BLOODY GREAT TRIP!! WE  LOVED GETTING OUT OF THE VAN AND TACKLING THE ADVENTURE OF THE OLD TELEGRAPH TRACK AND CAPE YORK.

A MASSIVE THANKS TO OZTRAIL FOR TEAMING UP WITH US, THE GEAR PERFORMED OUTSTANDING AND MADE LIFE EASY ON THE TRACKS. 

DEFINITELY PUT THIS TRIP ON YOUR HITLIST! IT’S ONE YOU WILL REMEMBER FOR EVER.

CHEERS CAPE YORK!!

TRIP WRAP UP!!

WE HAVE SOME GREAT PARTNERS ON BOARD WITH OUR TRAVELS.

Huge thanks to these guys for the support. cheers.

The Ultimate Lap Of Australia Itinerary (eBook)

Travel Australia Cost Calculation/Budget Spreadsheet

The Essential Guide to Road Tripping Australia eBook

Central Australia Itinerary

15% OFF NAVIGATOR GEAR

BIG LAP BUDGET

Learn how much it will cost you to Travel Oz like us!

FUNDING OUR TRIP

How we funded our trip and tips for you to do the same

OFF-GRID BATTERY SET-UP

THE ULTIMATE IN FREE CAMPING POWER

Map of Australia Decal - 15% OFF TIAV15

• Privacy Policy and Terms of Conditions

Our Cape York Trip: Brisbane to Cape York Itinerary

by Melissa | Jul 30, 2021 | North Queensland

Like most adventure lovers, it had always been our dream to take a Cape York trip .  I spent hours and hours researching and planning the best Brisbane to Cape York itinerary and trying to determine whether we were best to join a tag along 4WD tour or whether we were brave enough to make the Cape York road trip alone.

In the end, mainly due to the need to be completely flexible with our dates, we decided we’d give it a crack and made the road trip to Cape York alone. So we took our off road camper trailer and our trusty Pajero Sport and with my copious amounts of notes which I took from spending hours and hours learning from other experienced Cape York travellers – set off for our 3 week Cape York holiday .

While thanks to other general travellers, I came up with a pretty detailed Cape York trip itinerary before leaving – I will admit that this was one of the hardest trips to plan. Unfortunately, there is limited Cape York travel information online and when talking to other travellers, while some make it sound like it’s a near impossible mission, others make it sound like a walk in the park – I knew it was probably going to be neither.

So we did as much Cape York trip preparation as we could and with a huge dose of adventure, we set off on what turned out to be a trip of a lifetime!

If you’re planning a Cape York trip , this is a great guide for you to read.  In this guide, I’m going to cover off, day by day, our Brisbane to Cape York road trip to help you put together your own itinerary.  I’ll also cover things like:

• All the best things to do in Cape York
• Cape York accommodation and camping suggestions
• Our Cape York trip cost
• Tips on Cape York driving
• Tips on the best time to go to Cape York

This guide won’t go into loads of details about each of the Cape York towns we visited – however, it will link to separate articles on this.

Also, just so you know upfront – we are not hardcore 4×4 enthusiasts – so we certainly took the easy route to the Cape York tip and back.  So if you’re looking for a guide on all the gnarliest 4wd tracks on the cape – sorry, this isn’t the Cape York travel guide for you.  However, if you’re the average punter looking for an amazing adventure – then read on – I’ve got you covered with some great Cape York information .

Are you planning a trip to Outback Queensland? Have any questions? Join our Queensland Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.

• 1.1 Day 1: Brisbane to Marlborough (Drive 11 hours – 780 km)
• 1.2 Day 2: Marlborough to Rollingstone (Drive 8.5 hours – 676 km) 
• 1.3 Day 3: Rollingstone
• 1.4 Day 4: Rollingstone to Laura (Drive 8.5 hours – 576 km)
• 1.5 Day 5: Laura
• 1.6 Day 6: Laura to Bramwell (Drive 8 hours – 475 km) 
• 1.7 Day 7: Bramwell – Day Trip to OTT
• 1.8 Day 8: Bramwell to Punsand Bay (Drive 6 hours – 237 km)
• 1.9 Day 8: Punsand Bay
• 1.10 Day 9: Punsand to the Tip / Pajinka
• 1.11 Day 10: Punsand Bay to Loyalty Beach (Drive 45 minutes – 35 km)
• 1.12 Day 11: Loyalty Beach
• 1.13 Day 12: Day Trip to Thursday Island 
• 1.14 Day 13: Seisia to Eliot Falls (Drive 4.5 hours – 110 km)
• 1.15 Day 14: Eliot Falls to Weipa (Drive 4.5 hours – 300 km)
• 1.16 Day 15: Weipa
• 1.17 Day 16: Weipa to Chili Beach (Drive 4.5 hours – 285 km)
• 1.18 Day 17: Chili Beach to Archer River (Drive 3.25 hours – 162 km)
• 1.19 Day 18: Archer River to Ravenshoe (Drive 8 hours – 644 km)
• 1.20 Day 19: Ravenshoe to Charters Towers (Drive 3.25 hours – 162 km)
• 1.21 Day 20: Charters Towers
• 1.22 Day 21: Charters Towers to Injune (Drive 8.5 hours – 787 km)
• 1.23 Day 22: Injune to Home (Drive 6.25 hours – 556 km)
• 2 Best Time to go to Cape York
• 3 How Long to do Cape York
• 4.1 Get Your Car Checked Over
• 4.2 Make Sure You Have Telstra Mobile
• 4.3 Get the Car Organised
• 4.4 Download Shows and Podcasts
• 4.5 Things to Bring
• 5 Are Modifications to your 4WD Required?
• 6 Cape York Alcohol Restrictions
• 7 Cape York – Our Verdict

In this Cape York holidays guide , I will be relatively brief and link you to my more detailed articles where applicable.  The purpose of this Cape York guide is to simply provide you with a detailed Cape York 4WD trip itinerary, so you don’t need to worry about planning your own trip day by day.

We live in Brisbane, but you may well live further than that, closer to the tip or somewhere completely different.  That’s ok – just start on whichever day covers a town you’ll be passing through and go from there.

Also, this is the Cape York 4WD itinerary that we took – you, of course, can take way longer and see loads more or take more time going up to the Cape and back – there are loads of ways you can make this trip.  We were trying to make the trip within 3 weeks and spend most of our time in Cape York, so we went up and back in the fastest time that was comfortable for us.  So this is just a Cape York suggested itinerary – to get you started.

Throughout this itinerary, if I think we could have done something better – I’ll mention this so you can learn from our mistakes.

Also, as I said, we took our camper trailer with us, but along the way, I’m going to cover off where you can stay, even for those families not planning on a Cape York camping trip.

Day 1: Brisbane to Marlborough (Drive 11 hours – 780 km)

Day one saw us leave home bright and early at 6 am.  It was an uneventful day, consisting of a few toilet breaks and about 30 minutes for lunch in Gin Gin.  

Thanks to a combination of books, iPads and podcasts, the day went surprisingly fast.  Although the last hour or two was a killer.  

We found most of the toilet stops within towns had some good little playgrounds for families with young children. 

We arrived at our stop for the night at 5 pm.  

Accommodation : Marlborough Motel & Caravan Park cost us $25 for the night for the 3 of us on an unpowered site.  They do have motel rooms available if you’re not camping.  Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at the Marlborough Motel & Caravan Park.

Fuel : $73.10

If you’re coming from down south and planning on stopping a few days in Brisbane – click here for a guide on things to see and do in Brisbane.

Day 2: Marlborough to Rollingstone (Drive 8.5 hours – 676 km)  

On day two, we were on the road by 8 am and fueled in Marlborough before we left– there is a petrol station right across the road. 

We pretty much drove straight through again until we reached Rollingstone Beachfront Resort.  We had a quick stop for lunch at a rest stop just outside of Mackay. 

We arrived in Rollingstone around 4.30 pm and had a great beachfront powered site.  

Accommodation : Rollingstone Beachfront Resort cost us $116.10 for a beachfront powered site for 2 nights for the 3 of us.  They do have cabins available if you’re not camping.  Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at the Rollingstone Beach Front Resort.

Fuel : Marlborough $83.23 and Ayr $70.14

If you’re stopping for a few days in Townsville – click here for a guide on things to do and see in Townsville.

Day 3: Rollingstone

We had a late start to the day and a swim in the pool.  We then headed to the local golf club – Mystic Sands Golf Course for lunch ($56 for 3 meals, 2 wines and 1 soft drink).  You can camp here if you’re on a budget and fully self sufficient as there are no facilities. 

After lunch, we headed to the beautiful Paluma Range National Park – an afternoon just doesn’t do this park justice – there is so much to see.  It’s only about a 20-30 minute drive to the park from Rollingstone. 

There is a range of places to visit in the national park, probably the most popular being Little Crystal Creek.  This is probably one of the most picturesque waterfalls and rock pools I’ve ever seen – it’s just gorgeous.  There are various pools with different depths, so perfect for kids of all ages to swim in.  It is super cold though! 

We also visited Big Crystal Creek, which is in a different area of the National Park.  Here there is sliding rocks and Paradise Waterhole.  

Sliding Rocks isn’t signposted – but just follow the signs to Big Crystal Creek and the road eventually stops.  There is no sign here and you’ll probably be like us and have no idea which way to go.  But just walk through the boom gate and follow the track to sliding rocks. It’s about 100 metres and well worth the walk.  The kids will love swimming here.  

Then we backtracked to the Paradise Waterhole – this place is huge!  And the water is crystal clear – no wonder it’s named Big Crystal Creek.  There is a campground here and it would be a great place to stay while exploring the National Park. 

It was then back to camp to watch the sunset from our campsite at Rollingstone Beachfront Resort.  

Accommodation : Rollingstone Beachfront Resort

Day 4: Rollingstone to Laura (Drive 8.5 hours – 576 km)

We woke up to a brilliant sunrise over the beach at Rollingstone – they are spectacular here and well worth the early wake up time. 

We were on the road by 8.30 am, headed for Laura – where most people start their Cape York adventure from.  It’s also the last of the continuous bitumen road – so enjoy it while you can! 

For lunch, we stopped in Milla Milla for some quick sandwiches on the side of the road and then another stop in Lakeland – the gateway to Cape York.  There is a little interpretative centre here with some general information about Cape York, including its history, local people, wildlife and fauna. 

It was then onwards to Laura where we pulled into the Peninsular Hotel around.  I found in my research that the hotel is called a few different things – Laura Hotel, Quinkan Hotel – but its official name is the Peninsular Hotel.  

Behind the hotel is a lovely little grassy and shady campground – there are both powered and unpowered sites.  There is no camp kitchen and the amenities are basic – but we quite liked it here.   Click here for more details about staying at the Peninsular Hotel.  

Accommodation : Peninsula Hotel cost us $35 per night for a powered site for the 3 of us. For non camping accommodation – there are motel rooms across the road at Laura Motel.   Click here for our full guide on where to stay in Laura.

Fuel :  Can’t remember where?? $76.62  

Day 5: Laura

After breakfast, we headed across to the Quinkan Cultural Centre.  This is an excellent little centre that has information about Laura with a focus on the indigenous people.  It’s $10 per adult and kids are free.

After the centre, we drove to the Split Rock Art Galleries – considered one of the most significant rock art sites in the world.  It costs $10 per person to visit Split Rock while we were there, but I understand it has increased to $30 per person and payment is via an honesty system. 

If you prefer, you can do a guided tour of Split Rock – you can arrange this via the Quinkan Cultural Centre.  They are expensive though, at $190 per adult and kids over 12 being $85 – kids under 12 are free. 

We then headed back to camp for lunch.  Afterwards, we headed out to the Old Laura Homestead, about a 30 minute drive out of town.  

On return to camp, we walked across the road to Mary Harris Memorial Park, which has a few old relics from when Laura was a gold rush town.  We then drove out to the old railway bridge, which is just out of town.   

Accommodation : Peninsula Hotel

Fuel : Laura General Store $93.71  

Click here for our full guide on visiting Laura

Day 6: Laura to Bramwell (Drive 8 hours – 475 km)  

It was recommended to us to air down before leaving Laura – so we did.  However, the reality is the majority of the road is bitumen – it’s at least 50 km or more of bitumen straight out of Laura.  Even when the road is gravel, it’s in excellent condition and you probably don’t need to air down.  So I’d suggest waiting to air down until you think it’s necessary. 

From Laura, we left around 8.30 am and arrived in Coen at 12.30 pm.  Here we headed straight to the Exchange Hotel for lunch.  Lunch isn’t cheap, with meals starting at $20 and only burgers on offer.  However, the serves are huge and you could easily share one between two people.  They have kids meals too for $10. 

After lunch, we headed across the road to Cape York Heritage House.  It’s right on the corner of the main street and just looks like a residential home.  It’s not staffed, but you can go in and look around.  There is a range of items and photographs on display mostly from the gold rush era. 

We had considered stopping and checking out the Bend but were short on time, so we didn’t.  The Bend is a popular riverside spot that is a great place for swimming.  The water is crystal clear and there aren’t any crocs.  It’s also a popular free campsite.  

To reach the Bend, drive north out of town and you’ll eventually find a spot on the right hand side of the road.  It’s usually easy to spot as there will be plenty of cars there.  

From Coen, we drove a further 3.5 hours to Bramwell Station Tourist Park.  First though, we stopped at the turn off to Bramwell for a photo stop at the sign.  It’s becoming a popular spot to take a photo – probably because it’s one of the first signs you come along which mentions Cape York.  

If you’re going to Weipa, at this point, you will continue on the Peninsular Development Road.  Or a little back before this turn off is a road heading east to Portland, Chili Beach, Iron Range National Park or Lockhart River.  We visited both Weipa and Chili Beach on the way back. 

We arrived at Bramwell Station Tourist Park at around 4.30 pm.   

Accommodation : Bramwell Station Tourist Park – $25 per vehicle for an unpowered site.  There are also rooms for $112 or ensuite rooms for $200 per night.  Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Bramwell Station Tourist Park.

Fuel : Archer River Roadhouse $85.05

Day 7: Bramwell – Day Trip to OTT

A few kilometres north of Bramwell Station is the Bramwell Roadhouse – you can camp here too.  This is also the start of the famous Old Telegraph Track (also called the OTT or Tele Track).  You need to have all the 4WD gear to safely do this track, as well as plenty of experience.  I’d also recommend you go with at least one other vehicle for assistance if you get in trouble.  

We were travelling alone and didn’t think it was wise to do the entire track.  However, you can duck in and out of the track from various points where you can still see some of the OTT highlights. 

So while in Bramwell, we decided to go and check out a few places.  First, we drove the start of the track for 3 km until we reached Palm Creek.  The water level was low and we could have crossed it. But decided not to and just watched a few others cross before turning back. 

We then drove around 44 km north, where we took the Gunshot bypass to the infamous Gunshot Creek.  The track is well signposted; just keep a lookout for it.  It’s then another 25 km to the OTT.  The bypass road is pretty similar to the main road – it is very bumpy, so be prepared.  

Once you reach the OTT, it’s 7kms to Gunshot.  This section of the OTT is relatively easy to drive.  You’ll certainly need some 4WD experience though, but it’s nothing even beginners like us couldn’t handle. 

We then pulled up at Gunshot and spent an hour or so watching others cross the creek.  The actual infamous Gunshot is pretty crazy stuff and we didn’t see anyone do it.  But there are a few different options for crossing Gunshot creek, which doesn’t involve going that way.  Still – it’s a hairy crossing and certainly one for only those well experienced. 

You could travel north from Gunshot along the OTT to Cockatoo Creek; however it was getting late in the day and we headed back to camp. 

Just a note about fuel.  The campers next to us at Bramwell left bright and early; we took it easy and left a few hours later.  Anyway, we saw them when we stopped at the Roadhouse a few hours after they left.  We chatted with them and they said the petrol station had run out of fuel and so they had been waiting there all morning as a truck was coming to fill the tanks up.

This made us always top up on fuel at almost every station we passed from here on in, as we didn’t want to get stuck waiting like these poor buggers. 

Accommodation : Bramwell Station Tourist Park

Fuel : Bramwell Junction Roadhouse $83.17

Day 8: Bramwell to Punsand Bay (Drive 6 hours – 237 km)

We left Bramwell Station at 8.30 am bound for Australia’s most northern campground – Cape York Camping, Punsand Bay. 

If you want to look at a few more places on the OTT, you can also do this from this section of the trip.  You can enter the OTT to see Fruit Bat Falls, Eliot Falls and Twin Falls – we did this on the way back.  

Also, just south of Fruit Bat Falls, there is also another well signposted section you can enter and see Sailor Creek – it’s not very far at all from the main road. 

From Bramwell to Jardine would have to be some of the worst gravel roads we encountered on the trip. So be prepared for some crazy bumps!  Although conditions change all the time and you may be lucky and the road might be freshly graded when you come through. 

We arrived at Jardine Ferry by 11.30 am, which we were happy about as we heard they closed for lunch from 12 to 1 pm.  However, we arrived to a million cars lined up waiting for the ferry.  Apparently, the ferry had broken down before we got there and so now there was a serious wait to cross.  We waited 1.5 hours before it was our turn – thankfully, they didn’t end up closing for lunch. 

The ferry was $130 return for the car and our trailer.  

From the Jardine Ferry, we drove another 30 minutes or so and stopped at the Bamaga supermarket.  It’s a good sized supermarket but expect the variety to be limited and items much more expensive than regular prices. 

From Bamaga, we stopped into the Croc Tent for a bit of a look – this is the place to go if you want to buy any souvenirs for your trip.  They have Cape York branded everything! 

Also, across the road from Croc Tent, you can see the old Jardine Homestead.  Unfortunately, it’s quite derelict now and you can go near the old buildings – but it’s interesting to see this old historical building.

We then arrived at Cape York Camping, Punsand Bay, where we had booked a powered site for 3 nights.  It’s a great spot right on the beach with a bar, restaurant, laundry and swimming pool.   

Accommodation : Cape York Camping Punsand Bay – $70 per night for a powered site for the 3 of us.  They also have a range of other accommodation options if you’re not camping.   Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Cape York Camping Punsand Bay.

Day 8: Punsand Bay

After more than a week on the road, this was always going to be a chill out day. So we spent the day by the pool.  We caught up on some work and my daughter made new friends – it was a great way to recharge the batteries after being on the road and Punsand Bay is the perfect place to do it.  

If you don’t need a rest day – you can skip this day and move straight to day 9.

Accommodation : Cape York Camping Punsand Bay

Day 9: Punsand to the Tip / Pajinka

Today was the day we reached the very tip of Queensland – in fact, the very tip of Australia!

It’s just a short drive to the tip – formally known as Pajinka. However, if you’re going in peak season, I’d recommend going early as otherwise you’ll be crowded by people coming from further afield – after all, this is what people have come for.

There is a small car park at the tip and it’s about a 15 minutes walk to the very tip.  The walk does take you over many rocks and uneven surfaces, so it is best to wear enclosed shoes.  Another option is to go at low tide and walk around via the beach – however, I recommend going up over the rocks if you can because the views are phenomenal!

Once we returned, we wandered around Frangipani Beach – the beach where the car park is located.  It is so beautiful here – such a shame this is croc territory and you can swim in the electric blue waters here.

From the car park, it’s just a short drive and you’ll come across some old abandoned buildings.  This is actually an old 5 star resort which was called Cape York Wilderness Lodge.  We popped in for a look where you can see the reception area, bar, pool and a few more old buildings.

We then headed out to Somerset, which is just south of the tip.  This was the very first administrative centre of Cape York and the first permanent white settlement.  It’s crazy to think this, as the area is so remote and isolated and the landscape so harsh and rugged.  

In 1864, Police Magistrate John Jardine was sent here to oversee the region.  Unfortunately, there was much rivalry between Jardine and the local Indigenous population resulting in significant Indigenous deaths.  You can see some old graves here from this time, including that of Jardine.

Apart from the graves, there is pretty much nothing here today, apart from a few old relics, although unfortunately, much of it is not signposted and difficult to find. So we couldn’t find much of it.  

Apparently, you can see some old ruins from the original homestead and there are some caves with Aboriginal paintings.  Have a look at this article which may help you find some of these places.

Also, at Somerset is the start of the 4WD track called Five Beaches Drive.  We didn’t take this drive, but we heard from other travellers that it’s a lovely drive.  The drive starts from Somerset Beach, where you take the track up over the headland down to Fly Point, then Vallack Point, Nanthau and Narau Beaches.  So including Somerset – that’s 5 beaches.

We then returned to camp and spent the remainder of the day relaxing around the pool area at Punsand Bay.

Day 10: Punsand Bay to Loyalty Beach (Drive 45 minutes – 35 km)

We decided to break up our time at the tip between Punsand Bay and Loyalty Beach.  Punsand Bay is a bit expensive, whereas Loyalty Beach is about half the price.  However, if I had my time again, I’d probably just stay put at one or the other and my recommendation would be Punsand Bay.  You can always visit either one of them for meals at their restaurant – which I’d recommend you do.

Anyway – so we drove down to Loyalty Beach and set up camp, right on the beachfront.  We caught up on some washing and relaxed.

One of my favourite places at Loyalty Beach was down at DJ’s Restaurant and Bar – you can read more about it by clicking the link below.  They open at 5 pm and we were down there on the dot to relax with a drink in hand and watch the sunset.

Accommodation : Loyalty Beach Campground – $37 per night for an unpowered site for the 3 of us.  They also have a range of other accommodation options if you’re not camping.   Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Loyalty Beach Campground.

Day 11: Loyalty Beach

Today we went out in search of all the old WWII plane wrecks which are in the area.  If you’re short on time, you could do this the same day as you head out to the tip and Somerset.

Make sure you pick up a map while you’re at the Croc Tent, as this will help you located where all the wrecks are.  Some are easier to find than others, but you’ll be able to see the DC3 -air force courier that crashed on its landing approach killing all six crew on board and Beaufort Bomber just 2kms past DC3.

We then headed to Mutee Heads (pictured above) for a picnic lunch.  This is such a beautiful part of Cape York and a lot of people chose to camp here and fish – I can see why.

We then headed back to Loyalty Beach, stopping in at New Mapoon first.  Just next to the council building is the New Mapoon Indigenous Knowledge Centre.  It’s just a small outdoor information centre that provides information about how the Aboriginal people were forcibly removed from their homes in Mapoon.

We spent the remaining part of the day relaxing around camp and of course, we headed to DJs at 5 pm for a drink and watched the sunset.

Accommodation : Loyalty Beach Campground.

Day 12: Day Trip to Thursday Island 

Today we went on a day trip with Cape York Adventures to see some of the Torres Strait Islands.  The tour started at 8.15 am from the wharf in Seisa, just a 10 minute drive from our campsite at Loyalty Beach.

The tour took us to three islands – Horn Island, Thursday Island and Roko Island – you can read more about our trip here (coming soon) or see our YouTube video, which shows some of the highlights from our trip.

The day trip is not cheap by any means, but I mean, we weren’t going to be all this way and not visit the Torres Strait Islands.  The trip was $250 per adult and $140 per child.

Day 13: Seisia to Eliot Falls (Drive 4.5 hours – 110 km)

It was time to start making out way down the Cape – but our adventures weren’t over – the best was still to come!

We headed back to the Jardine Ferry and once again, it had broken down, so the lineup of cars was even longer than when we came up.  We waited around 2 hours for our turn to cross the river!

We had intended to have a bit of a look at Nolan’s Creek on the OTT without crossing it, but given how long we waited at the ferry, we decided to push on.  Apparently, there is a track some 28kms north of the Fruit Bat Falls where you can go in for a sticky beak. If you have a Hema Map, it’s marked there.

You can also go into the OTT from Bamaga Road to see Sam Creek – there is a gorgeous swimming hole here that I’ve seen some photographs of and looks lovely.  To get here, there is a track some 15 km north of Fruit Bat Falls – again, if you have a Hema Map, it’s marked there.

We were a bit nervous about getting to Eliot Falls as it’s on the OTT and you need to cross Scrubby Creek.  All the maps have it listed as a deep and long crossing and given we are not overly experienced 4WDers; this worried us a little.

However, arriving at Scrubby Creek, we found a small detour that still crosses the creek but has a causeway across the creek.  We did it with ease, even with our heavy camper trailer on the back.

We arrived at our campsite at Eliot Falls, set up camp, and headed straight out to swim in the waterfalls and rockpools.  The waterfalls and rock pools are amazing!  We spent the whole afternoon at The Saucepan, Eliot Falls and Twin Falls.  It’s no more than a 15 minute walk to the various falls from your campsite and just a few minute walk between each of them.

Accommodation : Eliot Falls Campground – $20.55 per night for an unpowered site for the 3 of us.  Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Eliot Falls Campground.

Fuel : Bamaga BP $36.95

Day 14: Eliot Falls to Weipa (Drive 4.5 hours – 300 km)

We had intended on spending two nights at Eliot Falls and I would recommend you do that.  However, at the last minute, we decided to squeeze a trip to Weipa into our itinerary.  If you are super short on time, one night at Eliot Falls is certainly doable.

So we got up reasonably early, packed up our campsite and headed out to Fruit Bat Falls.  This was hands down the highlight of our entire trip!  This place is amazing.  It’s only 10 km from the Eliot Falls campground, but the roads are a bit rough, so it takes around 30 minutes to get to Fruit Bat Falls.

You could spend hours here; it’s so amazing – if you go with kids – they will never want to leave!  This is why having at least two nights here is recommended.

We then continued to Weipa, which is another 4.5 hours or around 295 km.

If you want to see a little more of the OTT, you could make a detour to Sailor Creek on the way.  From where you exit from Fruit Bat Falls onto Bamaga Road, just 7km away, there is an entrance to the OTT.  From here, it’s just a short drive to Sailor Creek.

Once in Weipa, before checking into the campground, we stopped at the Woolworths in town to stock up on supplies.  It was great to see a full size supermarket finally!

Weipa was so busy that we couldn’t get a campsite there, but they had a cheap cabin there which we booked into. So it was kind of nice not having to set up our camper trailer!

After settling into our cabin, we went down the beach to enjoy one of the spectacular Weipa sunsets we had heard so much about.

Accommodation : Weipa Campground – we paid $240 for two nights for a budget cabin with a kitchenette but no bathroom.  Campsites start at $37.    Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Weipa Beach Campground.

Day 15: Weipa

We really wanted to do the mine tour in Weipa, but given this was a last minute addition to our itinerary, they were booked out during our stay.  However, I also heard good things about the Western Cape Eco Tours, so we booked into their Wildlife Tour and their Sunset Tour – both similar but slightly different.

The Wildlife Tour is dependent on the tides and for us, the tour started at 8.30 am.  It is a cruise through the local waterways, searching for local wildlife, including birds and of course, crocodiles!

After the Wildlife Tour, we checked out the Weipa Cultural Centre, which is just a short walk from where the boat disembarks.

We then headed back to the campground and spent some time in the pool.

In the afternoon, we headed back out with Western Cape Eco Tours for their Sunset Cruise.  While cruising the same waterways as the morning, it looked completely different as it was high tide and the sun slowly setting in the sky; it put a beautiful orange glow over everything.  And of course, we were served champagne and beer!

After the cruise, we headed back to the campground and ordered fish and chips at Barramuchies – the campground’s on-site cafe.  The food was delicious!.

Accommodation : Weipa Campground

Day 16: Weipa to Chili Beach (Drive 4.5 hours – 285 km)

Next up, we drove over to the eastern side of Cape York to Chili Beach.  It was a real mission getting across to Chili Beach and in hindsight, while Chili Beach is absolutely beautiful – given our short timeframe, we probably should have left this off our itinerary.

With that being said, Chili Beach is lovely and drive through the rainforest as you get closer is just amazing!

We had booked 3 nights at Chili Beach – but given we spent two nights at Weipa, which wasn’t in our planned itinerary, we shortened this to just one night.  We gave the additional nights to some fellow campers we met at Weipa.

After setting up our campsite at Chili Beach, we took a long stroll down the beach and relaxed around camp.

Accommodation : Chili Beach Campground – $20.55 per night for an unpowered site for the 3 of us.  Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Chili Beach Campground.

Fuel : Weipa $45.47, Lockhart River $73.03

Day 17: Chili Beach to Archer River (Drive 3.25 hours – 162 km)

Before lunch, we headed down to visit the speck of a town called Portlands Road.  There is really not much to this town except a beautiful outlook across the ocean and there is a cafe run out of someone’s house called Out of the Blue Cafe – it wasn’t open though when we were there.

Portlands Road is where you’ll also find The Temple – which looks like a fabulous place to stay.

We then headed back to camp for lunch and then packed up.  Then we drove to Archer River Roadhouse – one of our favourite roadhouse campsites.

After setting up camp, we all headed down to the Archer River for a swim.  The river offers beautiful crystal clear water, with shallow areas for wading and deeper areas for a swim.  Many people were sitting in the water with a stubbie – a great way to end the day.

After our swim, we headed back for a shower and then dinner at the roadhouse.  

Accommodation : Archer River Roadhouse Campground – $25 per night for an unpowered site for the 3 of us. There are also rooms for those non campers. Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Archer River Roadhouse.

Day 18: Archer River to Ravenshoe (Drive 8 hours – 644 km)

Another early start to the day, which saw us officially end our time in Cape York.  We had a stop in Laura to fuel up and have lunch and we farewelled the Cape York Peninsula.  However, we welcomed the bitumen road!

We were on our way home now, which we had included a few days in Charters Towers.  So on this day, we drove late until we reached Ravenshoe for an overnight stop.  We got in late in the day, so we decided to treat ourselves to a motel room at Tall Timbers Motel and Van Park.

Tall Timbers is a really lovely property and in fact, Ravenshoe is really pretty and it would be well worth staying a day or two to explore if your itinerary allowed it.

Accommodation :  Tall Timbers Motel and Van Park – we paid $130 for the night in a motel room.  Campsites start at $37.    Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Tall Timbers Motel and Van Park .

Fuel: Coen $86.78 and Laura $55.94

Day 19: Ravenshoe to Charters Towers (Drive 3.25 hours – 162 km)

We left Ravenshoe bright and early so we could be in Charters Towers by lunchtime.  We checked into the Charters Towers Tourist Park, set up camp and had lunch.

We then headed out to Texas Longhorn, where we had a fantastic tour around their property, getting up close to the many gorgeous texas longhorns and learning heaps about these unique cattle.

After leaving Texas Longhorn, we popped into Visitor Centre to pick up a few brochures and then went down to Lissner Park, where we checked out the ducks and the WWII digital trail.

We then headed back to our campsite for the night.

Accommodation :  Charters Towers Tourist Park – campsites start at $31.50 per night and there are self contained cabins for the non campers.    Click here for our full review and everything you need to know about staying at Charters Towers Tourist Park Park .

Fuel : $67.80 Ravenshoe and $71.36 Blue Waters

Day 20: Charters Towers

We started the morning by heading back out to the Visitor Centre to see their short orientation film on Charters Towers.

From here, we then did the self guided heritage walk through town, which took us past all the grand old historic buildings.

Next, we stopped at the Zara Clark Museum for an hour or so.  A fantastic little museum with loads of little knick knacks from long ago.

After the museum, we started the self drive tour, which took us around town to places such as where gold was first discovered, the old cemetery and the Venus Gold Battery.  At Venus Gold Battery, we joined their 11.45 am 90 minute tour, where we learned more about how gold was discovered in Charters Towers and how it was processed at the battery.

After the tour of Venus Gold Battery, we continued with our self drive tour around town.  Then we headed back to our campsite for a bit of a rest.

At 4.30 pm, Raleigh from the Tourist Park took us up to Towers Hill, where she provided us with a great grazing platter and bottle of wine – it’s part of their Sunset at Towers Tour.  We enjoyed watching the sunset and checking out the cute little rock wallabies that came out to say hello.  A great way to end the day.

Click here for our full guide to Charters Towers

Accommodation : Charters Towers Tourist Park

Day 21: Charters Towers to Injune  (Drive 8.5 hours – 787 km)

This was our biggest driving day of the entire trip.  We wanted to put a big day in so we’d get home the following day with plenty of time to unpack and clean up.

We arrived in Injune around 5 pm and booked into the Injune Motel – so we didn’t need to worry about setting up camp or packing up the following morning.

We went to the Injune Pub for a good country meal – just a 5 minute walk around the corner.

Accommodation : Injune Motel – we stayed in a motel room here for $130.  

Fuel : Bellyingdon Cross and Rolleston $79.96

Day 22: Injune to Home  (Drive 6.25 hours – 556 km)

Another driving day – we left early and arrived home mid afternoon.

Fuel : $66.81 in Dulacca

Best Time to go to Cape York

One of the most important things to know before setting out on your Cape York trip is the best time to visit.  Many of the roads in Cape York are not sealed, and are in poor condition – this means that during wet weather many of the roads can become flooded.  Therefore travellers are best to visit Cape York during the months of May to around October – although these times may vary year to year depending on the weather conditions.

Peak season tends to be during school holidays, so avoid these times if you can – particularly June  / July – although this is exactly when we went and didn’t find it overly crowded at all.  If you prefer fewer crowds, September onwards is recommended.  However, you’ll also want to consider your tolerance to hot weather.  Of course the closer you get to the end of the year, the warmer it will be.  Even though we went in June / July – at the tip it was still hot.

Many say the very best time to go is as soon as all the roads open up, which is usually early May.  Everything is green and the roads are freshly graded.  However keep in mind that the roads open up at all different times.

How Long to do Cape York

Well, that’s going to be different for everyone.  I often see people in the various Cape York FB groups say you need months for it even to be worth it to go to Cape York and I just don’t agree with that at all.  Of course the more time the better – but most people just don’t have a spread few months to go on holiday.

As you can see we had 3 weeks from Brisbane and we had a great time!  Would more time be better – absolutely.  Could you do it in less time – probably?  If you have all the time in the world, then you’ll have the luxury of travelling slow and seeing much more of the Cape than those short on time.  However, if we all waited for the perfect time, we may well never get there.

One great idea I heard from a few travellers to help save time on the road was if one person in your group/family has more time than others – get that person to drive up to Cairns and have the others fly into Cairns to meet them.  You could also do this on the way home.

However, provided you have at least a week or so to spend on the Cape (not including time to get to the start of the Cape) then just do it.  Life is short – take the trip now – don’t wait!

Cape York Trip Preparation Tips

While we’ve been on road trips before, we’ve never done anything like a road trip to Cape York, so this one took a little extra planning, but nothing too major.  Anyway, here are a few tips you might want to consider before heading off.

Get Your Car Checked Over

Definitely worth getting your car serviced before you go and let your mechanic know exactly where you’re headed.  That way they can check to ensure nothing is loose.  We also had our mechanic service our camper trailer.

We also had our RACQ cover increased to the highest level, just in case.

Make Sure You Have Telstra Mobile

The next thing I’d recommend is to get a Telstra mobile SIM card if you haven’t already.  While you still won’t get service everywhere, you’ll have better luck with Telstra then any other service provider.

Get the Car Organised

Given you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the car, you’re going to want to give some thought to how you organise everything in the car.  We got this car organiser from Aussie Outback Supplies which was really handy for our daughter to stay organised in the back of the car.   Our daughter also has this lap tray from Spotlight so she can draw, read and even eat food from easily. 

We also had one of these multi chargers plugged into the power outlet of our car so that we could ensure all devices were always charged up.

Download Shows and Podcasts

Given we were spending so much time in the car, before the trip we all downloaded a bunch of things on our devices, like shows on Netflix for our daughter and podcasts for us – it keeps everyone entertained on those long driving days.   

Things to Bring

Everyone is different in terms of what they consider the essentials – but here are a few things I recommend for your Cape York trip:

• Cape York Hema Map – given you won’t get much service on the road and the additional detail this map shows you, it really is crucial
• UHF Radio – tune it to channel 40 to talk with others on the road
• Recovery Gear – in case of those times you get stuck
• Laundry Strips – much more compact and lighter to carry around than washing liquid, just ensure they are in a watertight container because if they get wet they will be ruined
• Dustbuster – for cleaning up all that red dust
• Blower – for blowing away all that red dust

Are Modifications to your 4WD Required?

Well, that depends on the sort of trip you’re planning on taking.  Now like I keep saying – we are not 4WD experts.  We’ve owned a 4WD for almost 12 months – so are certainly not qualified to give advice.  However, we sought out loads of advice before this trip and I shall with you what they said and what we ended up doing.

So we did not take our car through any major creek crossings on the OTT or throughout the Cape – just a few minor ones here and there.  So we decided not to get our car fitted with a snorkel or a winch – however, we would have if we were going to do the OTT.

We had been recommended to upgrade the shock absorbers on our car, but we didn’t.  However, in hindsight, this probably would have been a good idea – because some of those corrugations really are brutal!

So in the end we decided not to make any modifications whatsoever to our vehicle – this was decided in consultation with our mechanic.  The only modification we have on our vehicle are air bags for our camper trailer and this was done last year – so not in preparation for this trip.

Were we silly for not getting any modifications done?  Were we just lucky nothing went wrong?  I’m not sure but we did seek out lots of advice and in the end, felt we made an informed decision not to make any modifications to the trip.  However like I said, in hindsight, we would have upgraded our car’s shock absorbers.

Basically, it really depends on your existing vehicle set up and the type of trip you tend to make.

Cape York Alcohol Restrictions

Coming soon!

Cape York – Our Verdict

We had such a fun time on our Cape York trip!  I had a few concerns before we left, such as how we’d go with driving that far as well as how the car and camper trailer would go on the corrugations and other tracks.  The long distances didn’t seem to be a problem at all.  While we did have some long days of driving, I tried to make sure we never had more than two long driving days in a row and in fact, tried to limit it to one driving day followed by a sightseeing day or two.

As to how the car and camper trailer went – well there was some damage along the way, but nothing too major.  We got a chipped windscreen on day one, just outside of Brisbane!  We also got a few minor scratches to the car, the air condition vent in the car came loose, a few bolts were lost from the camper trailer etc etc.  But everything was easily fixed which was good.  As to the driving itself, we did fine, even though we are fairly inexperienced 4WD drivers.

Cape York itself was brilliant!  It is so remote, rugged and so pretty in places – it was excellent to see this part of Queensland.

I also really enjoyed the camaraderie there is among other travellers.  Everyone’s up for a chat, to pass on some advice or lend a hand when needed. There was also such an awesome sense of adventure that was felt among us.  I mean it wasn’t an “easy” trip and most days required us to muck in together to set up or pack up camp.  But the bond this created and the memories we now have will be something to be cherished for a lifetime.

If you’re somewhat of an inexperienced 4WDer like us and wondering whether you should take a Cape York trip – then I hope after reading our story the answer is an overwhelming yes!  With plenty of preparation, some common sense and a big sense of adventure – your very own Cape York holiday will no doubt be a trip of a lifetime!

Recent Posts

• Camping at Thunderbird Park, Mount Tamborine
• MaMa Country Escape Camping Review
• The Complete Guide to the Best Camping Lanterns Australia 2024
• The Complete Guide to the Best Camping Lights Australia 2024
• The Complete Guide to the Best Pop Up Tents Australia 2024

• Our Tow Rig
• Outside of our Caravan
• Inside of our Caravan
• Lap of Australia
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Planning Tips
• Travel Tips
• Caravan Setup & Tips
• Car Setup & Tips
• Travel Lifestyle Tips
• Education While Travelling Tips
• Food While Travelling Tips
• Series 1 Planning
• Series 2 South Australia
• Series 3 Western Australia
• Series 4 Northern Territory
• Series 5 Queensland
• Accommodation Reviews
• Product & Gear Reviews
• Experience Reviews
• Gear We Love
• Partner Enquiry
• Tourism Operators

We’re live on Instagram, check out our latest posts!

Todoing Family

• Cape York Peninsula
• Hope Vale and Elim Beach
• Lakeland and Laura
• Rainforest Coast
• Getting Here
• Black Mountain Picnic
• Weipa Fishing Classic
• Cooktown Discovery Festival
• Laura Races and Rodeo
• Cook Shire Public Holiday
• Black Mountain Unplugged BMUP
• Cardiac Challenge
• Wallaby Creek Festival
• Conquer the Corrugations
• Bloomfield Cultural Bazaar

Suggested Cape York Self-Drive Itinerary

Pascoe River

Many travellers start their Tropical Far North Queensland and Cape York adventure from Cairns. There are 2 routes north from Cairns.

The Coastal route via Cape Tribulation, the Daintree Rainforest and the Bloomfield Track to Cooktown requires 4WD and is incredibly scenic. This is the only place in Australia where you can experience the splendour of tropical rainforest while being just a stone’s throw from the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

See the Great Tropical Drive Discovery Trail and Great Tropical Drive Daintree Trail for further information.

The Inland route via the fully sealed Mulligan Highway gives the option of turning off at Lakeland towards Laura or continuing to Cooktown from where you can take the 4WD Battlecamp Road on to Laura.

Cairns – Laura and Quinkan Country

Drive from Cairns through World Heritage-listed tropical rainforest out to Mareeba then join the sealed Mulligan Highway north through rolling savannah to Quinkan Country and the 30,000-year-old rock art galleries at the Split Rock sandstone escarpment. Tours to other incredible rock art sites such as the Giant Horse and Mushroom Rock galleries can be booked through the Quinkan Regional and Cultural Centre. 

Camp either at Laura or in nearby Lakefield National Park, or alternatively split the journey at Lakeland where there is a caravan park where you can store your caravan.

It is approx 310 km from Cairns-Laura and approx 330 km Cairns-Cooktown on the Mulligan Highway route.

Laura-Lakefield – Musgrave Station

Explore Queensland’s second largest National Park Lakefield with it’s rivers, lagoons and swamps is a wildlife refuge and home to several threatened species. There is prolific birdlife, and both estuarine and saltwater crocodiles, with plenty of barramundi in the rivers. Recreational fishing is permitted at all camping areas with barramundi and catfish the most common species caught. Permits for camping must be pre booked through Queensland National Parks . 4WD is essential and campers need to be fully self sufficient. There are several scenic campsites in the Park.

From the Kalpower Crossing in Lakefield N.P. you can continue for a real adventure out to Cape Melville N.P. and great fishing spots at Bathurst Heads. This is extremely remote so you will need to be fully self sufficient.

Drive on from Lakefield to Musgrave’s historic telegraph station .

Alternatively you can continue on the Peninsula Development Road up to Musgrave, approx 140km. Stop in at the Hann River Roadhouse for refreshments, 76 km past Laura.

Musgrave Station to Coen

 The PDR continues for around 100km to the Cape outpost of Coen . There are campsites and basic accommodation in Coen as well as a post office, general store, mechanical services and petrol station. The beautifully restored Heritage House provides a glimpse back to the days gone by and an exhibition of old mining equipment is on display next door to the Heritage House.

An option on this stretch of road is to turn off towards Port Stewart and there are some lovely camping spots along the Stewart River.

 Coen – Bramwell Junction

 Visit the Cape York Information Centre and Quarantine Inspection Station 20-km north of the township to find out more about this area.

Friendly staff here can offer advice on places to visit and road conditions.

About 5km past the Quarantine Station is the turn off for Mungkan Kandju N.P. which is a noted bird watching area. There are several campsites in the Park and access is 4WD only.

66km further along the Peninsula Development Road from Coen, meals, camping and accommodation are available at Archer River Roadhouse as well as facilities for minor mechanical repairs.

The PDR continues all the way up to Bramwell Junction but it is worth taking the turn offs to fully appreciate Cape York Peninsula. At the Wenlock River on the PDR, Moreton Telegraph station is a popular campsite.

Lockhart River and Portland Roads Route

About 35 km north of the Archer River is the turn off to Lockhart River, Portland Roads and Iron Range N.P.

The first river crossing is at the Wenlock River and just past this there is a track which leads to the old Batavia goldfields where you can still see some of the old mining equipment.

The next river crossing is at the Pascoe River – this is a longer stretch with a sandy bed. The track then leads towards Iron Range N.P. with some spectacular scenery and Australia’s largest area of lowland rainforest. The campsites at Chilli Beach are very popular and there is great bird watching with 15 endemic species, and some interesting walking trails in the Park.

Lockhart River is an Aboriginal community famous for the incredible array of artistic talent produced by the Lockhart River Art Gang. A visit to the Arts Centre is a great experience. There is also a supermarket and fuel in the town.

Portland Roads is a beautiful little fishing community with a couple of beach shacks for rent and a fantastic restaurant .

Weipa and Merluna Route

The turn off to Weipa is around 50km north of Archer River. The family operated Merluna cattle station is located off the Weipa road and also offers accommodation and camping. From Merluna you can drive to the bauxite mining town of Weipa, with modern facilities and fantastic fishing. This is a good place to stock up on supplies or enjoy the world class fishing. From Weipa you can drive east through Batavia Downs Cattle Station to Moreton Telegraph Station, on the Wenlock River or continue from Merluna on the Telegraph Road up to Bramwell Station or Jardine National Park .

PDR Bypass Roads

From Bramwell Junction you can either take the challenging Old Telegraph Line 4WD route or the PDR Bypass roads which are maintained to a good standard. The Bypass roads are around 260 km from Bramwell Junction to the Jardine ferry which can take up to 5 hours.

Interesting side trips from the Southern Bypass road include the turn off to Captain Billy Landing where there is a campsite.

The Old Telegraph Line

The Old Telegraph Line really starts after Bramwell Junction and continues up to the Jardine River. It is important to have a properly equipped 4WD for this adventurous route but most travellers to the Cape will take the OTL north then return by the bypass roads.

Driving north you will need to negotiate several creek crossings, some of which have challenging entry and exit points.

Palm Creek is the first crossing, then you face the Ducie River, South Alice Creek and North Alice Creek. After around 30 km from Bramwell Junction you come to the Dulhunty River which is a popular spot to camp.

Next is Bertie Creek and after this there is the option of the Gunshot bypass or continue on the OTL to Cholmondely Creek. The infamous Gunshot Creek is the next crossing – this is probably the most challenging crossing on the OTL. Then you continue to Cockatoo Creek, another challenging crossing, and the final creek crossing is the bridge over Sailor Creek.

The section from Bramwell Junction to the intersection with the Northern Bypass Road is approx 80 km which can take up to 5 hours depending on conditions.

At this junction there is a track to Heathlands Reserve and the lovely Fruit Bat Falls which offers a refreshing swim stop on the way to the campground at Eliot Falls and Twin Falls.

The OTL continues from Eliot Falls through the rough Canal Creek, then you face crossings at Sam Creek, Mistake Creek, the aptly named Cannibal Creek, the rickety old bridge over Cypress Creek, Logan Creek and Nolan’s Brook before emerging at the Jardine River. A track then leads back to the Northern Bypass road and the Jardine River ferry.

The section from Eliot Falls to the Jardine River is approx 40 km and can take up to 4 hours depending on conditions.

Jardine River - Bamaga/Seisia/Tip of Cape York

Cross the Jardine River by cable ferry and head to the northernmost Tip of Australia .

Ferry tickets can be purchased online here . The ferry operates from 08.00-12.00 and then from 13.00 - 17.00, daily in the dry season.

Contact the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council for further information - phone 07 4090 4100. 

The drive from the Jardine ferry to Bamaga is about 42 km and Seisia is 6km north of Bamaga.

There are several camping and accommodation options in Bamaga, Seisia, Loyalty Beach and Punsand Bay with guided tours, hire cars and fishing available within the area. As well as the great fishing there are several WW2 sites, pioneer mining sites and old telegraph memorabilia to visit. Long stretches of deserted beach and the Lockerbie Scrub Rainforest Trail provide good walking options. The historic Somerset beach is another popular site to visit.

The Tip of mainland Australia is 32km from Bamaga and 7km north of Lockerbie – the must see destination for all visitors to Cape York Peninsula.

Having made it to The Tip spend a few days to enjoy the whole area and why not extend your trip to the Torres Straight Islands. Thursday Island is just 30 km from Cape York Peninsula and easily accessible by ferry from Seisia.

Natures Powerhouse

Walker st, cooktown, call us at 07 4069 6004.

• Your Privacy
• Related Sites
• Staff Login

The ridgy-didge outdoor & adventure blog!

10 Tips for Planning Your Trip to Cape York

A trip to the northernmost point of Australia is an absolute bucket list destination. The remoteness, the untouched beauty, the majestic nature and feeling of being ‘on top of Australia’ is like nowhere else. More and more people are making the trip every year, discovering the many hidden gems and locations that have remained a secret for so long.

Our family ventured to Cape York as part of a two-week camping adventure. We hope that the following tips assist you with planning your own trip.

1. Research your route

It may seem obvious, but it pays to plan ahead and map out where you want to go. There are many options and more locations to visit than you may first realise. Do you want to go straight up the middle, or venture to the east and west coasts on your way up or down from the tip? No matter where you go, every destination has something unique to offer.

As a general guide, you will need around two weeks to venture to the tip and back, without feeling rushed. If you want to go east and west, you could easily add a few days or more, each side.

The northernmost point of Australia takes your breath away.

Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR)

The main road that runs to the tip of Cape York is known as the PDR, short for Peninsula Developmental Road. This is the main ‘arterial’, although its red dirt has a character of its own. The PDR is under constant development, with almost permanent roadworks making improvements to the ‘worst’ sections of the road.

During our trip, the road was in great condition, but it always pays to check recent updates closer to your time of travel. The rainy season causes havoc with many closures. We, however, visited in the drier spring months.

Remember, drive to conditions, slow down and lower your tyre pressures for any rough sections.

Dropping your tyre pressures and driving to the conditions is essential.

The Old Telegraph Track

Snaking its way alongside and occasionally overlapping with the PDR is the Old Telegraph Track. This is a highlight for 4WD enthusiasts, with many challenging obstacles along what is very much a bush track. Those who dare to take the road less travelled are rewarded with some of the most pristine, untouched landscapes, creeks and waterholes. There is a real sense of camaraderie with other travellers, and friendships are easily formed.

The Old Telegraph Track can be tackled in two sections, North and South, and is best travelled from South to North, as this is the direction most people take, and with narrow roads, it is sometimes difficult to overtake.

The Old Telegraph Track is a unique and fun adventure, access starts from Bramwell Junction Roadhouse .

2. Decide on your mode of transport

Cape York is a remote location but it’s stunning beauty can be equally as rugged and unforgiving. It pays to be prepared and take a vehicle that will take you safely to where you want to go.

 A 4WD is a great option if you’re looking to be adventurous on the Old Telegraph Track.

Most people choose to take a 4WD of some type, as these vehicles are built for off-road and can be the safest and best-equipped vehicles for the conditions. Accessories such as a fridge, UHF radio, tools and an air compressor are all items that will come in handy on a trip like this.

If you choose to tackle all or part of the Old Telegraph Track, you will certainly need a 4WD, preferably with high clearance. Additional accessories such as a snorkel, winch and recovery gear are essential.

Being prepared with the right setup can mean the difference between ending up like the car on the left, or being able to keep on trucking, like on the right!

3. Camping, glamping or room hire?

There are many options for accommodation for a trip to Cape York. Your route and desired destinations will guide your accommodation, or if you have a fixed preference for where and how you want to stay –  vice versa.

Camping is the most flexible option, allowing you to travel and stay almost anywhere. There are some stunning free camps along the Old Telegraph Track that are fairly easily accessed if camping or with a camper trailer. Likewise, heading out to coastal areas is easiest with a tent or small camper.

If glamping is more your style, it is very possible to take a caravan to the tip, and we saw quite a few! Ensure your off-road van is best prepared by protecting cables, pipes and fittings from roads and stones. As with your car, lower the tyre pressures on the van to minimise impact, and be prepared to travel a little slower than you would in a car alone. With careful driving, many campsites are accessible by van, but there may be some spots that are tricky to reach. If you want to tackle the entire Old Telegraph Track, you will need to unhitch and venture off without the van for a day trip.

Finally, if you prefer more luxury, there are rooms available at most station stays, caravan parks and resorts along the way at the tip of Cape York. Planning ahead is key, as you don’t want to be stuck without having somewhere to rest your head at night. Booking prior to arrival is advisable, especially in peak periods.

Camping makes it possible to get off the beaten track and stay in some amazing locations.

4. Plan your meals

When it comes to meals, any remote travel requires planning and organisation. If you are camping, you will need to consider food storage, to both fit in the quantity of food you will need, and to keep it fresh. Remember to pack adequate drinking water, especially if heading into bush camps.

The major towns, including Bamaga, Seisia and Weipa , all have well-stocked supermarkets. Station stays and resorts usually offer restaurants and takeaway food as well.

Food is available for purchase at various locations, including roadside stalls.

5. Yes, there is fuel available!

It is a long way to the tip of Cape York! Whatever your mode of transport, you will require multiple fuel top-ups along the way.

It can be handy to have a jerry can of fuel for unforeseen circumstances or to save a little bit of cash as prices are on the high side, as you would expect. There are plenty of opportunities to fill up along the way, and a good rule for remote travel is to never pass by a service station without filling up. You can also plan ahead using a fuel app to find the next available petrol station.

Planning ahead and taking some time to ensure you have all the supplies you need can save you a lot of time and hassle.

6. The best-hidden gems are off the beaten track

You will be rewarded for taking the road less travelled! A trip to Cape York is all about adventure. Taking the time to venture a bit further is often well worth the effort.

The well-known water holes along the Old Telegraph Track include Twin Falls, Fruit Bat Falls and Elliot Falls. Lesser known but equally amazing locations are the Saucepan and Canal Creek. It takes a bit more research and perhaps some extra hiking time to make it to these destinations, but having this amazing part of the world almost to yourself is a truly unique experience.

There are so many stunning spots to visit, you may well have them all to yourself.

Likewise, after visiting the tip, why not venture east to Five Beaches, where you can navigate the 4WD track along the pristine beach and unforgettable scenery. Up to date, local information is available from The Croc Tent, just before you reach the tip.

Local knowledge (plus lots of souvenirs!) are available at The Croc Tent, close to the tip.

7. Fishing enthusiasts, this one is for you!

Unlike highly populated areas where there is a limited supply of fish, there are many opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to catch something special at Cape York. It is well worth packing a rod or two!

Much of the fishing is off the beach, so suitable tackle and bait will be needed. If you fancy catching something big, you are in luck, with sharks not too far off the shore, make sure you have a suitable rig. Local advice and supplies are available at the tackle shop at Bamaga.

If you fancy a fish, throw in your rod and gear.

8. Remember your recovery gear

If you plan to go off the beaten track, make sure you come prepared. There are a number of water crossings along the Old Telegraph Track including the renowned Nolan’s crossing, plus some steep inclines. Many people need assistance to come through the other side, and there’s always a chance that you might be the one needing help.

There are often plenty of people available to help, but it is good etiquette to have your own gear. Snatch straps, winch and recovery points and max tracks (or similar) and are basic gear that you should consider taking. Make sure that you know how to use it safely, too!

Remember your recovery gear…it might be you that needs to be rescued.

9. Kids are welcome

Children love adventure, and a trip to Cape York is the true adventure of a lifetime. Kids will love seeing the red dirt (and feeling it between their toes!), playing in water holes, exploring the bush and camping under a crystal clear sky full of stars.

School-aged children, in particular, will learn all about the history of the Old Telegraph Track, why it was constructed in the 1800s, and enjoy swinging from ropes at many of the obstacles (giving parents plenty of time to plan their approach!).

There are plenty of families making the trip to Cape York, and kids love getting back to nature and exploring such remote and untouched county.

The water holes are full of pure, freshwater.

10. Take your time

Finally, make sure you allow enough time to fully appreciate and enjoy the wonders of Cape York. It is a long way to the top, and as such, some stops might be overnighters. But many locations warrant longer stays –  2 or 3 nights, or even a week. The more time you have, the more you’ll be able to enjoy the atmosphere of Cape York.

If you don’t have as much time as you would like, perhaps only select a few key locations to visit. This would be a better option than rushing to get everywhere and not feeling like you have experienced anything properly. It’s a great excuse to plan a return trip in the future, there’s always more to see!

Do you plan on visiting the tip of Australia? 

Hi, we’re the Todoing Family!  We’re all about family travel and adventure, currently road tripping our way around Australia in a caravan. We’ve never caravanned before and are sharing our experience as we go.  We’re a family of 5 with a big ‘to do’ list. Follow along on our adventures on our website, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube @todoingfamily

Leave a comment: Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Newsletter Sign Up

Exploring Eden Books

Books for adventure

No products in the cart.

Cape York – No Bull Travel Advice

In all of Australia, I don’t think there’s a more adventurous destination than the Cape York Peninsula. Stretching from Cooktown in the south, across to (approximately) Karumba in the west and all the way to the northern-most point of the Australian mainland, it’s got just about everything. Epic fishing. Unreal four-wheel-driving. Exceptional camping. Remote, tropical sailing. Rainforests, savannah, wetlands and outback all meld into one incredible canvas for a tropical holiday in Queensland.

I’ve been up to the Cape a handful of times over the years and asked myself most of these questions. These are my honest answers, without the bravado that normally accompanies commentary on Cape York adventures.

If you are planning on visiting Cape York and TNQ, I highly recommend you get the guide, 100 Things To See In Tropical North Queensland . It has been written by locals Catherine Lawson and David Bristow. They’ve lived in the far north for over 20 years and travelled it extensively.

100 Things To See In Tropical North Queensland

Written by people who’ve lived in and explored the region for over two decades, this is the only guide you need if you want to find the places locals love. Steer clear of the crowds and get to know the real TNQ. Explore Tropical North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef like a local!

When is the best time to visit Cape York?

The northern half of Australia essentially has two seasons – the Wet and the Dry. During the Wet, which is usually between November and April, Cape York pretty much shuts down, roads flood and access is severely restricted. The Dry Season usually begins around May and its starting to get unbearably hot by October. Most visitors come up to Cape York between Easter and Grand Final Weekend (the weekend when the AFL and NRL hold their Grand Finals) in September.

For my money, I really love visiting Cape York in late-September to early October, because by then, most people have left, the campsites have emptied and you can go days without seeing a soul. Even at popular places like Fruit Bat Falls which can be as busy as Bondi, you’ll get the place to yourself.

If you wan’t Cape York at it freshest, people do start making their way up as early as late-April or May, but expect the tracks still to be wet and the creek crossings to be as high as the drama. It’s worth noting that some really great areas, like Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park , don’t open until July 1.

How long should I spend on Cape York?

Realistically, spend as long as you can, plus a few extra days. Cape York is a pretty big commitment. Even from Cairns, it’s further to the tip of the Peninsula than it is between Sydney and Brisbane. Then add to that, the road conditions limit your travel to a few hundred kilometres per day, rather than 1000. The first time I did Cape York, we spent about eight days travelling north, and another seven days travelling back south again. Then, three weeks later, we turned around and spent two weeks exploring parts of the south-eastern and south-western cape we’d missed the first time. The whole place is nearly the size of Victoria.

If you’re coming from the southern states, you might need two or three weeks for the round trip, and that might include three solid days of driving from home to Cairns before settling into are more relaxed travel schedule of Cape York. If you can spend a month up there, you won’t run out of things to do.

Want to read more about travelling Cape York? Check out these great articles

Travelling The Old Telegraph Track In Cape York Camping in Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park, Cape York Four Wheel Drive Cape York by Wild Travel Story Top Five Croc-Free FNQ Waterholes by Wild Travel Story Island Camping in Far North Queensland

Do I need a modified 4WD for the trip?

No, not really. I’ve read so many articles and seen so many videos that say ‘These hectic suspension modifications and aftermarket accessories are essential for the Cape. Get them from our sponsors now, or else!”, but I’ve done it once in a bog-standard VW Amarok with a factory-fitted snorkel, another time in an almost bog-standard VW Amarok (snorkel and storage drawers fitted), and twice in a Nissan Patrol with nothing more than 2in of lift, a dual-battery system, roof-rack, snorkel and storage system. You probably won’t need a winch and you don’t need mud-terrain tyres, a massive suspension lift or diff-locks, even if you want to travel the Old Telegraph Track .

You probably don’t even need a 4WD, if you’re happy to avoid some of the tougher off-road tracks. Once when I was up there, the Vintage Peugeot Club trundled through with 15 or so very old Peugeots, all having a grand time and barely shaking to bits at all.

Some modifications will make it easier, though. There are very few facilities along the way, so you’ll need to be reasonably self-sufficient. I would invest in the following things:

• A storage drawer system to help organise the load-space of your 4WD.
• A dual-battery system to reliably run a camp fridge, camp lights and other 12V accessories.
• A camp fridge. I reckon about 15 to 20-litres capacity per family member is a pretty good guide, less as you add more family members.
• A snorkel, but only if you want to do the Old Telegraph Track. If not, it’s not needed.
• Decent shock absorbers with a warranty. You might need to claim it when you get back. A 2in lift if you’ll be doing some tougher off-road tracks
• A bull-bar. This is less important, but you’re very likely to damage your bumper if you’re not careful on some creek crossings on the Tele Track.
• A tyre gauge, a shovel, snatch strap, shackles and a few beers for the person who helps if you need it. Recovery tracks are handy, but deflating your tyres appropriately in the first place is better.
• A means of carrying enough fuel to last 1000km or more of normal driving. There’s fuel every 100km or so along the way, but having a 1000km worth means you can skip the most expensive places. I’d try and avoid filling up north of the Jardine Ferry, if possible.
• A means of carrying at least 10-litres of drinking water per person, but more if you can. There’s plenty of good-quality fresh water along the way for everything else from washing to swimming or even cooking.
• A paper map and the ability to read it. I love this one below, and mine is scribbled all over with notes and learnings.

Cape York – Hema Maps

Planning on checking out the best bits of Cape York? This Hema Map is the best there is, and it’s the perfect companion to any adventure you take with our guide 100 Things To See In Tropical North Queensland.

How hard is the Old Telegraph Track?

The Old Telegraph Track is a real test of four-wheel-drives and their drivers, but it’s not the toughest 4WD track in Australia, or even the toughest on Cape York. What makes it such a challenge, though, is how remote it is and the variability of terrain you’ll encounter.

If you drive the Old Telegraph track from end-to-end, you’ll cross something like 15 creeks and rivers, two of which (at least) will be deep enough to get water over the bonnet. Many have steep, rutted entry and exit points which get churned up by a steady steam off traffic over the Dry season.

The good news is, most of the toughest crossings have had B-lines (and often C-lines) cut into them, so there’s almost always an easier option. Only two crossings, Gunshot and Nolans Brook, are truely challenging. However, both can be easily bypassed without sacrificing any of the pride that comes with tackling the track.

If nothing else, the Tele Track is a nice reprieve from the harsh corrugations that cause a lot of havoc on the main road.

Can I free camp on Cape York? What accomodation options are there?

You could probably do a Cape York trip without camping, but you’d be missing the best bits. Camping is the ultimate way to experience the highlights of this part of Tropical North Queensland, and the cheapest. Most camping varies in price from free to about $6/adult per night (in National Parks). North of the Jardine River, camping isn’t technically free, but if you’ve bought a ferry ticket, camping in most places is included as part of the fare. Most spots allow fires if campfire cooking is your thing.

There are several privately run campgrounds and caravan parks on Cape York, all of which offer reasonable rates. For example Punsand Bay Camping , the best spot to camp near the tip, offers unpowered sites from $20 a night. Seisia Holiday Park is $30 a night unpowered, while further south, Weipa Caravan Park charges $37 a night for an unpowered site.

If you don’t want to camp, simple motel, pub-style or safari tent accomodation can be found in Weipa, around the northern towns of Bamaga and Siesa, at Punsand Bay and at most of the roadhouses along the Peninsula Development Road.

Should I tow my caravan, camper trailer or boat to Cape York?

Both off-road caravans and off-road camper trailers are popular on Cape York, but use some discretion on where you choose to tow them. You’ll see all sorts of trailers on your way up to Cape York, but only those that are looked after and towed carefully make it to the top without any damage or breakdown. Before you go, check your bearings, suspension components and any fitments are in top order, or they’re likely to fall off due to the corrugations. If towing a boat, make sure your boat trailer is off-road ready and that you know how to strap your boat and its motor on securely for a rough ride.

If you are towing a caravan or boat trailer, consider how much you really need to take it on the Old Telegraph Track . There’s no where to launch your boat on the OTR, and although the Gall Boys have famously shown it’s possible, it’s not really responsible to bring your caravan. Fortunately, the OTR is only about 100km long and most people spend three nights on it. Bring a small tent and leave your caravan or boat in storage at Bramwell Junction Roadhouse. Then, it’s literally only 144km south along the Bamaga Road (the main road) to loop back and get it.

If you are towing a camper trailer and you’ve got experience towing off-road, a camper trailer will be okay along the OTR, but it’ll also make the trip much harder, and more-likely that you’ll need to be recovered or damage something. Typically, the smaller and lighter the trailer, the better you’ll be.

How much does fuel cost on Cape York?

The price of fuel varies in different parts of the Cape and can be 40-60c more expensive than in Cairns. At the time of writing, ULP91 is $1.75/litre in Bamaga, but between $1.09 and $1.20 in Cairns. In Weipa, ULP91 is $1.50/litre and diesel is $1.34. You can get diesel and Unleaded 91 petrol very reliably throughout Cape York, but higher grade fuels might be harder to come by, so consider bringing an octane additive just in case. Unless you’re travelling well off the normal tourist trail (like to Rinyirru National Park or Kowanyama, for instance), you’ll rarely travel more than a few hundred kilometres without being able to refill.

Typically, you’ll fill up in Cairns, top up in Cooktown, then again in Coen. If you go through Weipa, get fuel there, then again at the Jardine Ferry Crossing. North of the ferry, fuel prices jump about 20-30c a litre, so you can save heaps by being able to carry enough fuel to visit all the attractions up near the tip without having to fill up. If you do need fuel, get just enough in Siesia or Bamaga to get you to the ferry – just ring ahead to make sure they have fuel.

What Maps and Guides Are Best For Cape York

A lot has been written about Cape York over the years and so the area’s attractions are well documented. If you’re tech-savvy and patient, Geosciences Australia has its full library of highly detailed topographic maps online, available for free download. This is probably the most detailed set of maps available, and we’ve written about that in this article called Free High Res Map Downloads of TNQ . One downside is that many are years old, so not as up-to-date as other options.

The best paper map of Cape York is the one produced by Hema . It’s just $14.95 (you can buy it above), and covers every accessible track on the Peninsula, details the great camping options and points of interest.

Our own guide to TNQ, 100 Things To See In Tropical North Queensland, has a whole chapter dedicated to Cape York. The authors, Catherine Lawson and David Bristow, live in TNQ and, as travel journos, spend most of their year travelling in their 100 Series LandCruiser or 35-foot catamaran called Storyteller . They’ve been up and down the Cape more times than most, and often by boat rather than car (as I write, they’re anchored off Siesia!). If you are planning on doing more than just the Cape while in TNQ, their book is a great resource so you make the most of your opportunity.

Are there crocodiles on Cape York? Can I swim anywhere?

There are plenty of crocodiles on Cape York and you don’t have to try very hard to spot them. Crocodiles inhabit most coastal and some inland waterways all the way from Gladstone in the south to the Kimberley in Western Australia . As a general rule, if you are not sure whether crocodiles are present, assume they are and seek local, up-to-date advice on where’s safe to swim.

Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park is a great place to spot crocodiles in the wild, and therefore a terrible place to swim. A lot of the campsites are along rivers and waterholes and there are estuarine and freshwater crocs in most of them. Be careful when approaching the water’s edge while fishing, collecting water or admiring the view, as estuarine crocodiles can stay underwater for an hour and ambush unwary prey in seconds if they (you) get too close to the edge. Camp well back from the bank, don’t create predictable patters and don’t leave food or scraps out that might attract them into your camp. And don’t enter the water under any circumstances. Almost every crocodile attack in Australia happens when someone has physically entered the water.

There are some great places to swim on your way up to the tip of Cape York, though. Many people stop overnight at the excellent free camp near Coen, called the Bend (just north of town). The creek here is fresh and clear and although freshwater crocodiles might be present, they’re considered safe to swim with (just ask Kununurra locals, who swim with 25,000 of them every day!).

Along the Old Telegraph Track, most of the crossings are considered safe to swim in, and the waterholes at Eliot Falls and Fruitbat Falls are two of the most iconic natural swimming holes in Australia. Both can be accessed from the Bamaga Road without needing to tackle the harshness of the Old Telegraph Track.

Do I need any permits to do Cape York or the Old Telegraph Track?

One of the great things about Cape York is the freedoms we have to travel in the traditional lands of its indigenous inhabitants. If your ultimate goal is to get to the Tip, the only permit you need is from the Injinoo people of the northern peninsula area. Good news is, this permit is included as part of the cost of the vehicle ferry across the Jardine River, and included permission to use the free camps north of the Jardine. Tickets for a return trip cost $103 per vehicle or $133 if you have a trailer. You can buy a ticket online or pay by EFTPOS at the ferry. Find out more about the Jardine River Ferry here .

You will need to pre-book any national park campsites online before you travel, or at least before you leave areas of mobile service. This includes for camping in Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park , Cape Melville National Park , Jardine River National Park (which encompasses the campsite at Eliot Falls), Flinders Group National Park , Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park (CYPAL) (which includes Chilli Beach) and Oyala Thumotang National Park . You can book Cape York National Park campsites here. Camping costs $6.75 per person per night, or $27.00 per family per night. Book Cape York National Park campsites here .

If you are planning on entering some Indigenous run areas, like Pormpuraaw, you may need to contact the local council and book at least two weeks in advance. For more information on visiting Pormpuraaw, click here . Camping at the region’s three designated camping areas costs $55/night per vehicle. Permits are also needed for camping around Kowanyama.

If you love repairing 4WDs and feel tackling the CREB Track sounds fun (which it does), you’re asked to contact the Eastern Kuku Yalanji (Buru) people if you plan on stopping at the Roaring Meg Falls day use area. Find out more here .

However and whenever you visit Cape York, it is an incredible adventure. Whether you’re coming for the camping, the 4WDing, fishing or to experience an epic part of Australia, you’re in for a treat.

Have we missed anything? What would you like to know about travelling to Cape York? Ask in the comments.

Can I take my dog with me to the top

Yes Peter, but you won’t be able to enter any National Park (ie Lakefield or the Old Tele), and some campsites might not allow dogs. Plenty of people travelling with them, though.

I have a full height Quantum made by Australian Off Road and am planning to take it up to the Cape in July, I need to get to Darwin and don’t mind taking a cut across the Cape to Normanton and am wondering which is the best track to tack to do this. I have a 200 series as the tow vehicle and loads of off road experience without a caravan but would like some expert advice on the track say between Artemis and Dunbar. Many thanks in advance

Wow! Thank you so much for sharing ultimate post with us. I enjoyed and like it. It would really helpful for those who searching for the same.

Is it possible to travel with a dog to the tip? Are there pet friendly campsites all along the way?

Hi Chris, you certainly can, and plenty of the camps and caravan parks are dog-friendly. However, you won’t be able to take your dog into the national parks (there are about 10 of them), or to some places like Fruitbat Falls or Eliot Falls, as they are in Heathlands reserve. Also, remember there are crocodiles in most waterways on Cape York, so be very wary around the water’s edge. We haven’t read this, but here’s a guide to bringing your dog to the Cape, which costs $7 to download – https://www.capeyorkaustralia.com/cape-york-info.html#Bring_Your_Dogs_to_Cape_York

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You May Also Like

Campfire Cocktails – The Rhonda

Interview with Liv Rose – Freediver and Ocean Advocate

From the Gold Coast to the Amazon with Ben Cooper

• 100 Things To See 22
• Slow Travel 19
• The Slow Lane 12

Free Shipping On All Orders To Australia! Dismiss

Hey, we noticed you're leaving, but you've left something in your cart? Before you leave, we wanted to offer you 15% off your purchase. Just use the code – exploring – at checkout.

Did you know that for every book you order, we plant one tree ?

Special Offer Extended for March 2024 Save $200 per person on 15 Day Cape York Tour and 15 Day Cape York + Savannah Wetlands Tour

Cape York Touring 2024 is open and ready for guests.   2024 is On Sale Now ! Call 07 4051 1120 for any questions or to make a booking. 

• 2024 Cape York Tours

9 Day 4WD Cape York Accommodated Tour DTA9MT

• Secure & Safe Checkout
• Clear Refund Terms

2024 Dates Now Available

Now Available

9 Day 4WD Accommodated Tour to Cape York Drive/Fly or Fly/Drive

Take a 4WD Cape York Tour to Cape York tour in small groups (maximum of 12 passengers) with an adapted vehicle for the driving conditions. Staying in motels and other accommodation along the way, you will enjoy hearty meals on the way!

This Cape York tour is like a private charter – Join a small group of like-minded guests for the journey of a lifetime. Jump on board our comfortable late model 4WD and travel to the Tip of Australia. If you want to see Cape York in a bit of style with a small group of no more than 12 people, then this is the tour for you. With many value-added inclusions and a knowledgeable local guide to show you the sights, you’ll find this tour is very good value for money. On this personalised 9-Day Cape York Safari you can ask the guide to see what you are interested in most, to a larger extent than on bigger tours. This tour operates as both a Drive/Fly and fly/Drive.

Highlights include Daintree Rainforest, Daintree River Cruise, Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield Track, Cooktown, James Cook Museum, Old Laura Homestead, Iron Range National Park, Lockhart River, Weipa, Western Cape Cultural Centre, Batavia Downs, Morton Telegraph Station, The Tip of Australia (as in the northernmost point of Australia), Crossing between Cape & Thursday Island, Flight between Horn Island & Cairns, Great Barrier Reef from the air.

This Cape York tour package runs as a Fly/Drive or a Drive/Fly itinerary, depending on the date you select.

Fly/Drive Cape York Tours departure dates 2024 – May 17, 2024,  June 10, 2024, July 4, 2024, July 29, 2024, August 22, 2024, September 16, 2024, October 11, 2024.

Drive/Fly Tours to Cape York departure dates 2024 -May 7, 2024,  May 31, 2024, June 24, 2024, July 19, 2024, August 12, 2024. September 6, 2024, October 1, 2024.

• Daintree Rainforest
• Cape Tribulation
• Bloomfield Track
• Iron Range National Park
• Lockhart River
• Bloomfield Track & Falls
• Cedar Bay National Park
• Lion’s Den Hotel
• Black Mountain
• Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL)
• Old Laura Homestead
• Batavia Downs
• Wenlock River
• Elliot Falls, Fruit Bat Falls
• Jardine River
• Seisa, Weipa
• Cape York, The Tip of Australia
• Small group offering, friendly and personalised service
• Modern 4WD vehicle and experienced Local Naturalist & Accredited Tour Guide
• All accommodation costs
• Breakfast, dinner, and light lunches as per the itinerary
• Morning / Afternoon teas
• All National Park entry fees
• All ferries and barges
• Cruise to Thursday Island and Horn Island with a short tour of both island
• Flight from Horn Island to Cairns with QANTAS
• Queensland’s “Great Ocean Road”
• Daintree National Park and Ferry Crossing
• Cape Tribulation & its sandy beaches and Madja Boardwalk

Tour Pricing

All prices are AUD per person.

Itineraries are subject to change. Travel insurance is highly recommended for all Cape York Tours as it is a remote location. Twin share concession rate $100 per person off.

Prices & Dates

Additional information, trip reviews.

DAY 1. CAIRNS TO THE DAINTREE (L D) Leaving Cairns we head north along Queensland’s Great Ocean Road towards Daintree, where we will join the Solar Whisper Daintree River Cruise for an hour of exploring the wilderness where crocodiles and other wildlife are often found.

We then cross the Daintree River and make our way toward Cape Tribulation giving you an opportunity to explore coastal headlands and long sandy beaches; stopping to enjoy lunch before we journey through the World Heritage Rainforest Accommodation at Ferntree Rainforest Lodge (Ensuite)

DAY 2. DAINTREE TO COOKTOWN (B L D) After a leisurely breakfast we begin our journey towards Cooktown. Engaging 4WD, we travel along the Bloomfield Track (weather permitting) enjoying many scenic spots including Bloomfield Falls and Cedar Bay National Park. We stop at the World-Famous Lions Den Hotel – another classic Aussie Icon.

We visit the mysterious Black Mountain before arriving in the historic township of Cooktown for an informative afternoon visit to the Cooktown Museum (formerly named James Cook Museum). Accommodation at Seaview Motel (Ensuite)

DAY 3. COOKTOWN TO COEN (B L D) We start our day with a visit to Grassy Hill Lookout, Botanical Gardens & Nature’s Powerhouse – this is truly an amazing place. From Cooktown we head west to Battle Camp and onwards into Lakefield National Park.

After visiting the Old Laura Homestead, we travel through many fascinating river valleys and numerous giant termite mounds before arriving at our overnight accommodation in Coen. Dinner at the Exchange Hotel Accommodation at Coen Guesthouse (Shared bathroom)

DAY 4. COEN TO LOCKHART (B L D) Today we continue our adventure to one of Australia’s most remote areas as we head east exploring the Sir William Thompson Range and then crossing the Pascoe River, we head to into The Iron Range National Park.

As we enter the National Park, we see the spectacular Mount Tozer at the peak of the table range, before descending to Lockhart River a unique aboriginal community situated on the ocean at Lloyd Bay. Exploring the many wonders of the Iron Range National Park whilst enjoying the dense tropical rainforest being the largest remaining area of lowland rainforest in Australia. We arrive at Lockhart River for our overnight stay Accommodation at Greenhoose Lockhart River (Ensuite)

DAY 5. LOCKHART (B L D) Today we have the opportunity to explore Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park (CYPAL). Kutini means cassowary and Payamu means rainbow serpent. These are important stories for the Kuuku Ya’u (Kanthanampu and Kungkay) people, the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of this coastal park of international significance.

A day full of spectacular views and biodiversity from the beaches and headlands to the heathcovered Tozer Range. A unique collection of mammals, frogs, lizards and snakes are found only at KutiniPayamu along with numerous species linking to New Guinea. Return to your accommodation at  Greenhoose surrounded by a tranquil rainforest environment for dinner and overnight. Accommodation at Greenhoose (Ensuite)

DAY 6. LOCKHART TO WEIPA (B L D) Leaving the east coast behind, we head inland to the north through the National Park and onwards to more savannah country of the Cape. In the afternoon we continue towards the West Coast and the famous mining town of Weipa located in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Weipa is the largest town on the Cape York Peninsula with a population of about 3000 people. Its main industries are mining and cattle exports.

Arriving late afternoon, we then depart the port of Weipa on a Sunset Eco Cruise through the tranquil waters of the Embley River into the golden glow of a sunset over the water, whilst enjoying a cold drink and canapes, your friendly guide will spot crocodiles and birds along the way. The Weipa Motel Resort your stay for the night offers warm hospitality and friendly service with modern comfort and style. Accommodation at Weipa Motel & Resort (Ensuite)

DAY 7. WEIPA TO CAPE YORK (B L D) Departing Weipa early we head through one of the largest cattle stations on the Cape – Batavia Downs. We visit the Morton Telegraph Station; this important link in communication to the far north and the cape operated till 1960. We now begin what will be one of the highlights of our tour – it’s now time to join one of the original Telegraph Tracks (conditions permitting)

Travelling further north to visit Elliot Falls and Fruit Bat Falls Joining the Bamaga Development Road we arrive at the Cape’s most famous river, the Jardine crossing the crocodile-infested stream by ferry, then onwards to the top of Australia where we stay for the next two nights. Accommodation at Loyalty Beach (Shared bathroom)

DAY 8. CAPE YORK TO THE TIP (B L D) Today we visit the remains of Somerset, which was established by the Jardine Family as the Government outpost and Cattle Station. Spend some time at some secluded beaches, where we have previously sighted dugongs and sea turtles. This is a particularly scenic part of the Cape.

We then head for Australia’s most northerly point, Cape York. The 30-minute walk to the point has lots of great views, also once we arrive it’s time to grab a drink and enjoy the afternoon over the Torres Strait. Accommodation at Loyalty Beach (Shared bathroom)

DAY 9. CAPE YORK TO THURSDAY ISLAND & CAIRNS (B L) For our last day, we take a boat cruise across the Torres Strait to Thursday Island and enjoy a guided tour around this small Island that is part of Torres Strait culture and history. The island is situated between Cape York and Australia’s nearest neighbour Papua New Guinea.

We then take a short ferry ride to Horn Island, where you will also enjoy a short tour of the Island before being transferred to the Horn Island Airport for your flight back to Cairns, arriving at approximately 5:30 pm. Transfer back to your Cairns CBD accommodation.

Day 1 –FLY FROM CAIRNS TO CAPE YORK ( HORN ISLAND)

Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation   Seisia: Loyalty Beach (share bathroom)

Your tour commences from Cairns Airport or if required a shuttle bus will take you to the airport from the Cairns CBD. Following your arrival at Horn Island Airport you will be met by our representative at the airport and transferred to the marina. We then jump on board the transfer boat and head to Thursday Island, where we have time to explore this small island that is part of Torres Strait culture and history.

Thursday Island is situated between Cape York and Australia’s nearest neighbour New Guinea. We then transfer by ferry to Seisia on the Mainland and make our way to our accommodation; this will be our home for the next two nights.

Day 2 –CAPE YORK & THE TIP

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we visit the remains of Somerset, which was established by the Jardine Family as the Government outpost and Cattle Station. Spend some time at some secluded beaches, where we have previously sighted dugongs and sea turtles. This is a particularly scenic part of the Cape.

We then head for Australia’s most northerly point, Cape York. The 30 minute walk to the point has lots of great views, also once we arrive it’s time to grab a drink and enjoy the afternoon over the Torres Strait.

Day 3 –CAPE YORK TO WEIPA

Accommodation Weipa: Weipa Motel Resort (ensuite)

Leaving the Cape behind us, we travel south across the Great Dividing Range though the Jardine National Park boarded with the stunning Coral Sea to the East. Arriving at the Jardine River it’s time to board the Ferry to cross the Jardine. We arrive at Fruit Bat Falls where we enjoy the board walk. We continue towards the West Coast and the famous mining town of Weipa located in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Weipa is the largest town on the Cape York Peninsula with a population of about 3000 people. Its main industries are mining and cattle exports. Arriving late afternoon, we then depart the port of Weipa on a Sunset Eco Cruise through the tranquil waters of the Embley River into the golden glow of a sunset over the water, whilst enjoying a cold drink and canapes, your friendly guide will spot crocodiles and birds along the way. The Weipa Motel Resort your stay for the night offers warm hospitality and friendly service with modern comfort and style.

Day 4 –WEIPA TO LOCKHART RIVER

Accommodation Lockhart River: Greenhoose (ensuite)

Today we continue our adventure to one of Australia’s most remote area’s we head east exploring the Sir William Thompson Range and then crossing the Pascoe River, we head to Iron Range National Park. As we enter the National Park, we see the spectacular Mount Tozer at the peak of the table range, before descending down to Lockhart River a unique aboriginal community situated on the ocean at Lloyd Bay. Heading onwards further north – exploring the many wonders of the Iron Range National Park whilst enjoying the dense tropical rainforest being the largest remaining area of lowland rainforest in Australia.

We arrive at Lockhart River for our overnight stay.

Day 5 – LOCKHART RIVER

Today we have the opportunity to explore Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park. Kutini means cassowary and Payamu means rainbow serpent. These are important stories for the Kuuku Ya’u (Kanthanampu and Kungkay) people, the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of this coastal park of international significance. A day full of spectacular views and biodiversity from the beaches and headlands to the heath-covered Tozer Range. A unique collection of mammals, frogs, lizards and snakes are found only at Kutini-Payamu along with numerous species linking to New Guinea. Return to the Greenhoose surrounded by a tranquil rainforest environment for dinner and overnight.

Day 6 –LOCKHART TO COEN

Accommodation Coen: Coen Guesthouse (share bathroom)

Travelling along part of the southern leg of the old Telegraph Track we come to the Archer River, one of the Cape’s well-known obstacles and river crossing. We then continue further south to Coen our home for the night. Dinner at the Exchange Hotel.

Day 7 –COEN TO COOKTOWN

Accommodation Cooktown: The Sovereign Resort Hotel (ensuite)

After an early start from Coen, we head into Lakefield National Park including visits to Red and White Lilly Lagoons – these are truly spectacular parts of the National Park. We will also travel through the many river valleys and numerous giant termite mounds and arrive at Old Laura Homestead.

From the homestead we take a short drive to “welcome waterhole” wetlands from here we travel the Battle Camp Track to Cooktown. We then check in to our accommodation for our overnight stay before heading to dinner.

Day 8 –COOKTOWN TO THE DAINTREE RAINFOREST

Accommodation Daintree: Ferntree Rainforest Lodge (ensuite)

The day begins visiting the James Cook Museum, Botanical Gardens & Powerhouse Museum – this is truly a unique and amazing place. Leaving Cooktown we engage 4WD and make our way along the Bloomfield Track enjoying many scenic spots including The Mysterious Black Mountain, Bloomfield Falls and Cedar Bay National Park, stopping to enjoy lunch at the Famous Lion Dens Hotel – another classic Aussie Icon.

Heading onward to Cape Tribulation, we give you an opportunity to explore coastal headlands and long sandy beaches journeying through the World Heritage Rainforest.

We arrive at our overnight accommodation in the heart of The Daintree Rainforest before our final evening meal together at a local restaurant.

Day 9 –DAINTREE RAINFOREST TO CAIRNS

Inclusions:  Breakfast, Lunch

After a leisurely start to our final day, we continue our journey through the Daintree Rainforest.

A visit to this area would not be complete without a walk in the Rainforest. We then join our cruise on the famous Daintree River aboard the river cruise where many crocodiles and amazing birdlife are often found. Following the river cruise, we make our way to the Daintree Tea House for lunch. We complete our Cape to Cairns experience with a scenic drive along the beautiful Coral Coast to Cairns City completing a truly memorable time touring the Cape York Region. Return to Cairns approximately 5.00pm

• Please book flights to arrive the day before your tour starts and departs the day after your tour ends. Departure and Return times are approximate.
• This tour departs Cairns on set dates (as above).
• Maximum of 6 passengers, per vehicle.
• Please note that Single Travelers must purchase the optional extra “single supplement” as we don’t offer shared rooms with other single travelers.
• Seasonal weather conditions and operational requirements may cause a variation in the tour itinerary.
• The operator reserves the right to substitute or modify if required. Please read our terms and conditions carefully.
• We endeavor to room guests with ensuite facilities where available, once full we use shared facilities.
• Please note this tour is not suitable for infants.
• Luggage is restricted to ONE Soft Bag (no suitcases) weighing no more than 10kgs + ONE Small Backpack/Day Pack

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• Experienced and passionate guides with local knowledge and experience
• Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned 4WD vehicles
• Cold water supplied
• Food as coded on itineraries
• Where our schedule permits – morning/afternoon tea
• Overnight stops in motel suites
• All National Park, site & ferry fees/accommodation costs

Small, luxury tours to exclusive breathtaking locations, carrying a maximum of six (6) people per trip. Guides are passionate and very experienced, utilizing their bush skills and wealth of local knowledge to ensure your trip runs smoothly. As well as being fun and informative, learn about the wonders of the Indigenous culture, flora, and fauna, botany, geology, and history of our totally amazing continent.

FOOD On our tours we provide you with all meals as coded in the itinerary. There is always plenty of food at mealtimes and we try to cater to individual tastes where we can, by asking you questions on our booking form about food. Continental breakfast daily consists of fruit juice, cereals, tea & coffee, toast, and jams. Lunch and dinner will also be provided as indicated per the itinerary. Storage for cold drinks and food is provided when travelling.

HOW YOU WILL TRAVEL Small, Late Model, 4WD vehicles with some special modifications; all vehicles have comfortable, forward-facing seats and are fully Air Conditioned.

SMOKING As per Government Regulations, smoking is not permitted in vehicles. Ample stops provide time for “smoking breaks” en route.

TRANSFER OF TOUR DATES Should you wish to transfer to another tour date, a handling fee of $150 may be charged. No cancellation fee will apply unless the tour is changed inside the full payment period; inside this period, changing dates is the same as canceling your tour and the cancellation fee will be imposed.

UNUSED TOUR SECTORS If a passenger fails to join a tour as booked or joins in after the tour has departed, or departs prior to the completion of the tour, no refund will be made for any portion of the tour including food, excursions, accommodation, etc., that are not used or undertaken.

INSURANCE Tour Operators and/or its agents are not responsible or liable for loss, damage, or theft of luggage or personal belongings whatsoever, nor for personal injury, accidents, hospitalization, illness, or medical expenses. In our experience, most claims arise from personal or close-family illness before holiday departure, resulting in cancellation charges. We strongly recommend all intending passengers consult their travel or insurance agent and take out adequate travel insurance to cover events that may effect your ability to travel (including, but not limited to, health, baggage, loss of monies through cancellation, additional expenses incurred through illness or personal liability prior to travel and early return, for example, following the death of a relative).

CLIMATE Winter in the tropical north is the dry season and temperatures will be mild with low humidity. Through the months of September and October, the temperatures become increasingly warmer.

FITNESS Tours have been designed to suit a reasonable level of fitness; the ability to be able to do some walking along nature trails and cope with remoteness is essential. People suffering from a lack of tolerance or not of general good health should consult their GP before taking part in these tours. Please Note: Passengers accept that it is their responsibility to ensure that their health is in a state which will allow them to enjoy the tour and successfully complete the activities that the tour offers. If you are unsure, we highly recommend seeking advice from your GP

LIABILITY The operator and its employees accept no responsibility for any booking, contract, travel, accommodation, or group tours that result in any loss, damage, accident, diversion, or theft in regard to luggage or personal belongings, and will be exempt from all liability in respect of direct or indirect consequential loss or damage, death, injury, sickness, irregularity, delay liability, and additional expenses, or inconvenience or any other event beyond its control including accident, failure of machinery or equipment, accommodation, transport, or other services.

AIRLINE INDEMNITY (where applicable) Airline’s involvement in these tours is as an air carrier only. Airlines carry no responsibility for statements in tour itineraries relating to the ground content of these tours and the operator indemnifies them against any claim, action, loss, or damage arising therefrom.

CLOTHING AND WHAT TO BRING Clothing and footwear should be casual, comfortable, and suited to tropical conditions.

• Clothing – shorts, trousers, shirts, swimwear, hat, sunglasses, a jacket and a change of warm clothes in case of inclement weather are advisable.
• Footwear – some form of fast-drying wet shoe would prove useful. Personal – sun protection, insect repellent, medications, toiletries, (overseas travellers should bring a suitable adapter).
• Don’t forget to bring your video or camera along with plenty of film & spare batteries (recharge facilities are available).
• Money and/or credit card for personal expenses such as drinks, souvenirs and optional extras.

LUGGAGE Each passenger is entitled to take one bag (soft-sided), 80cm x 30cm x 30cm weighing no more than 10 kgs  (space is very limited) and no suitcases. You may also have a small day bag or pack weighing no more than 4kg, however, most guests tend to carry a bottle of water and their cameras only. Baggage over the prescribed limit cannot be carried without prior arrangement.

LUGGAGE CHECKLIST:

• 1 pair of light walking shoes
• 1 x pair of bathers
• 1 x beach towel
• Hat, sunglasses

Insect repellent

• Small personal water bottle
• Small daypack

Booking Terms and Conditions

Be aware that some confirmed bookings are not refundable if cancelled, and also may not be transferable to another date or otherwise changed. Alternatively, a change may only be permissible subject to payment of an additional fee or charge. Your entitlement to a refund for cancelled bookings is subject to the relevant Supplier’s terms and conditions. Please note that if we are entitled to a service fee for placing a booking, we will remain entitled to this fee if you cancel the booking or the Supplier fails to provide you with the Product for any reason (other than our default), including in an event of Force Majeure. We will be entitled to deduct our service fee from any refund we receive on your behalf before remitting the balance to you. Suppliers’ fees are outlined in their relevant terms and conditions.

Final payment is required 90 days prior to travel.

Please review the full Terms and Conditions and Schedule of Fees prior to making a booking.

Supplier Terms and Conditions Cancellation Summary:

• Bookings cancelled more than 61 days prior to departure will incur a fee of $600 whichever is greater.
• Bookings cancelled between 60 and 46 days prior to departure will incur a fee of 25% of the tour total.
• Bookings cancelled between 45 and 31 days prior to departure will incur a fee of 50% of the tour total.
• Bookings cancelled 30 days prior to departure will incur a fee of 100% of the tour total.

Seasonal weather conditions and operational requirements may cause a variation in the tour itinerary. The operator reserves the right to substitute or modify if required. Please read our terms and conditions carefully. Departure and Return times are approximate. We endeavour to room guests with ensuite facilities where available. Once full we use shared facilities. Please note this tour is not suitable for infants or children under 4.

We strongly recommend all intending passengers take out adequate travel insurance to cover events that may effect your ability to travel (including, but not limited to, health, baggage, loss of monies through cancellation, additional expenses incurred through illness, or personal liability prior to travel and early return, for example, following the death of a relative).

Caravan Park Accommodation There are three Caravan Parks to choose from with limited storage options available at one of these properties. The Caravan Parks usually request a minimum stay of at least 4 nights pre/post tour to store your caravan/car/campervan/motorhome. Storage prices are anywhere from $30-$40 per night. These Caravan Parks are located all around the Cairns region and if applicable to your chosen tour itinerary your 4WD safari vehicle will either pick up or drop you off at your chosen Caravan Park. We are happy to book this for you or provide you with these Caravan Park options once your selected tour booking has been confirmed. Should passengers choose to stay elsewhere, we can advise you which pick-up point is the closest to your chosen accommodation.

Motel Accommodation We work with a local motel located in the Cairns CBD that offers quality, clean, and a range of good value room styles (see below). The room styles and rates listed below include free Wi-Fi, guest laundry, swimming pool & luggage storage whilst you are on tour. Your tour bus will pick you up and drop you off at the front door of the motel. We’re happy to make the booking for you or we will give you the motel details after you have booked your Cape York Tour.

STANDARD ROOM (20-25 sqm) Rooms have 1 queen bed or 2 single beds ROOM FACILITIES Air Conditioning, 42″ LCD Television, Tea/Coffee Making Facilities, Small Fridge, Safe, Iron & Ironing Board, WiFi.

ONE BEDROOM SUITE (50SQM) Rooms have 1 queen bed or 2 single beds ROOM FACILITIES Air Conditioning, 42″ LCD Television, Tea/Coffee Making Facilities, Small Fridge, Safe, Iron & Ironing Board, WiFi, Private Balcony.

Travel Insurance As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to get a free no-obligation quote from Cover-More Travel Insurance .

Credit Card Payments Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser:  pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment.

Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

Direct Deposit Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

Commonwealth Bank: Australian Tours and Cruises Reference: Your Trip Number BSB: 062-504 Account: 1066 1268 Branch Address: Shop 1/80-84 William St, Bathurst NSW 2795 In Bank Payment of Cash Or Cheque: Add $5 for bank fees International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

We have just returned from our 9-day/8-night fly/drive Cairns to Cape York trip and would like to say how much we enjoyed everything about it. It was a great experience and we considered it good value with all the hidden extras such as ferry charges, admission fees etc. While our aim of the trip was to reach the tip of Australia, this was so much more. Our accommodation was varied in style and some better than others but all were more than adequate and added to our overall experience. Everywhere we went we were met with friendly and professional staff and nothing was too much trouble. All meals were good and more than enough for everyone’s needs. We spent many hours driving which was to be expected but not as much walking as I thought which I was pleased about. Having 3 couples per car also made things a bit cozy but that added to the experience too. Our driver was Darryl and exceptional is a word that comes to mind when I think of him. His driving skills were never in doubt while all the time watching and looking for something of interest to point out to us. He took us places where other tours wouldn’t go and his knowledge and understanding of the area is amazing. There were so many highlights on this trip but Chilli Beach out of Lockhart was a great one for me. Thank you, Darryl (and Laurence in the other truck) for making this such a memorable trip, never to be forgotten! Amanda

I just returned from the 9-day inclusive Cape York tour and I am very glad that I chose this tour. We flew from Cairns to Horn Island, before travelling by boat to the mainland and then South down the Cape to Cairns. The beautiful scenery, unique flora and fauna and friendly locals were highlights of the tour. Experiencing the area in a small group and in a standard 4WD, as opposed to one of the larger, impersonal tourist transport trucks is really the way to go. Our trip was made all the better by our terrific tour guide, Darryl, who has in-depth experience and very personal links with the Cape. His passion, warm personality and broad network of contacts on the Cape all added to the tour, which I strongly recommend to anyone wanting to experience this beautiful and rugged part of Australia. Geoff

We took the 8 day tour from the top of Australia back to Cairns via 4 wheel SUV through the dirt of the outback. Fly to Horn island near  Cape   York  and met by big Derek who was our driver and tour guide for the trip for us and 2 others. Derek made the trip as he was an excellent driver, knew wildlife and aborigine life, plus a great story teller. As their literature warns you do not expect luxury accommodations on this trip because there are none out there. First 2 nights were in a tent with a shower, sink , toilet and duck tape fans but right next to the beach with fantastic starlight. All the meals on the trip were very good including a fantastic barramundi cooked at the  Cape Weymouth Portland House. Highly recommended if you are looking for an adventure tour. Charlotte

First let me say we really enjoyed our day 4×4 trip to  Cape   York (fly/drive). Mick our driver/guide was really good, friendly & informative, with a good sense of humour. The food at all of our accommodation was good with plenty of choice, the staff at all of the places we stayed were very friendly and helpful. As I have said we did enjoy our trip and we do not want to be to negative and critical, as this is the  Cape   York area and we know some facilities are very basic, maybe this should be explained more in the itinerary to give the traveller more idea of what to expect and maybe reflected in the price, nearly 10,000 dollars for a couple. Thursday Island was very enjoyable, hotel & food good, plus a very good tour. Loyalty Beach (Two Nights) though a nice place to stop regarding the location, the accommodation was very basic with poor facilities, especially for the ladies in the party. Appreciate in the Itinerary it said shared facilities but one shower and one toilet for the women, which included not just the ladies from our party, was just not good enough. Our small room was clean and consisted of two single beds one small fridge and air conditioning with shared toilets and bathrooms outside. (remember if you have a medical condition this could be a problem during the night) Also there was no locks on the doors when you left your cabin. We did have 24hr shared tea making facilities outside our cabins. The food provided was very good with plenty of choice and in a great setting, staff were very helpful and friendly. Apart from Loyalty Beach all the accommodation was good with Bramwell Station being the standout night for entertainment, good music, humour and plenty of good food plus a nice cold beer. The trip itself does include a fare bit of walking but nothing too hard, we are both in our 70s and managed ok. If you don’t like traveling over bumpy dusty roads, sometimes for five or six hours you might have to think about this trip also if you have children. The areas you go are both stunning and rugged but worth the effort with plenty of information provided by our driver Mick, these are off road places that possible the normal tourist would not see or be able to get too. Jennifer

In most towns you will get phone service, but there are large stretches between towns that may not have service. Satellite phones are carried on tours for emergency use. Phone service will be possible in Cairns, Laura, Seisia, Roko Island, Thursday Island, Horn Island, Weipa, Cooktown and Coen. There may be other locations and all service will depend on the phone carrier used.

Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment. Remember that ‘TravelPay’ will appear on your credit card statement.

Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

Commonwealth Bank – Australian Tours and Cruises

Reference: Trip Number

BSB: 062-504    Account: 1066 1268

International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees

SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

IMPORTANT: Please note that MV “Trinity Bay” requires passengers to complete a Passenger Medical Information Form to advise the crew of any medical issues they may need to be aware of. This information will also be used by medical attendants in the event of a medical emergency or accident.

If required by Part 1 of the Sea Swift Passenger Medical Form, a  GP Fit-to-Travel Clearance  is available to print and take to your GP for signature. Please email a copy back to  [email protected]  to complete your booking, please include your booking reference number in the email.

Bookings are not confirmed until all forms are completed and returned.

• Is there mobile phone reception and internet cafe access on the tour? Digital mobile telephones only operate in Cooktown. Telstra NEXT G telephones work in Cooktown, Laura, Coen, Weipa and Thursday Island. Email access via internet cafes is generally not available. Most phones these days can recieve emails.
• Is it possible to recharge phones, cameras etc on the tour? Telephones, cameras and other electrical devises can be charged using mains power in Cooktown, Musgrave, Coen, Weipa, Bramwell Station and Cape York.
• What is the policy on alcohol on the tour? The Government has imposed very strict alcohol regulations throughout Cape York Peninsula and our company has a permit to carry certain quantities of alcohol and complies with all regulations and laws. Please contact our office for further, more recent information.
• What is the policy on smoking on the tour? As per Government regulations, smoking is not permitted in vehicles. Ample stops provide time for smoking breaks.
• Where can I store my car and caravan? There are a number of places to store your vehicle or caravan. We can give you the details to book directly once your tour dates are confirmed.
• Are special dietary requirements catered for on the tour? If a passenger is on a medically prescribed diet, we will do our absolute utmost to cater suitable meals for that person. Please contact our office to discuss any diet needs.
• What are the meals provided on the tour? Your Guides / Chefs work extremely hard to provide passengers with excellent, wholesome meals. Breakfast consists of a choice of at least 3 cereals, toast and spreads. Lunch has a variety of cold meats and an abundant selection of salad vegetables on rolls or sandwiches. Evening meals begin with happy hour followed by a 2 course meal which could be a grill, roast, casserole, BBQ, fresh fish and appropriate selection of vegetables followed by a tasty dessert.
• What type of toilet and shower facilities should be expected on the tour? Toilets are either flushing or National Park composting type and showers are available most nights and if not, a long, soaking soap free  swim in a shallow, safe stream is available.
• How far do we travel each day? These tours are designed to show the very best of Cape York Peninsula. The day normally starts around 8.00am ending approximately 4.00pm covering 300 kilometers per day. During the normal course of the day you will stop for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. The tour also stops at places of interest, towns, communities and any notable flora or fauna features.
• How many people will be on the tour? The maximum number of passengers depends on the seating in the 4WD vehicles which range from 4 to 22 seats.
• How does the tour run? All tours are conducted on a partial participation basis, it generates friendship and conversation. The Tour Leader does all cooking however assistance with vegetable peeling, firewood collection and filling water buckets is greatly appreciated. Passengers assist with washing and wiping and erect their own tents (unless on pre-erected tent camping tour or on accommodated tour) after a demonstration, those less agile will be given assistance.
• How much luggage am I allowed? Baggage space is limited. One soft sided sausage style bag per person measuring approximately 600mm x 500mm x 300mm with a maximum weight of about 10kgs plus one small day pack per person for inside the vehicle. Excess luggage may be stored at your accommodation.

4 shorts or skirts

Swimmers/Towel

Water bottle

A spray jacket/warm jacket

1 pair of sandals

Laundry powder

Small day pack

Track suit pants/jeans

NB: clothes line & pegs are supplied by us (campers only) PLEASE AVOID ARTICLES OF WHITE/LIGHT CLOTHING AS DUST MAY STAIN

• How comfortable are the 4WD vehicles and seating used on the tour? Vehicle seats are individual, padded bucket seats with lap and sash seat belts. Vehicle suspensions are modified to ride as comfortably as possible to Cape York. A seat rotation is normally done each day.
• What kind of boats are used on the tour? M.V Trinity Bay carries 38 passengers stopping at Horn Island, Thursday Island and Bamaga. The trip normally takes 2.5 days and you will sleep on the boat for 2 nights. Accommodation is in either twin cabins or 3-4 passengers per cabin, all cabins have share bathroom facilities. A licensed bar is on the ship and your trip includes meals as indicated in the tour itinerary.
• What kind of air planes are used on the tour? Generally medium sized air planes with a capacity of 20 to 50 passengers are used. During peak season when services are in demand we occasionally use smaller aircraft carrying 8 or less passengers.

As a valued customer of Cape York Tours, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity get a quote from  Cover-More Travel Insurance .

• Should I bring extra spending money for incidentals? We suggest about $300 per person. Credit cards and EFTPOS machines are accessible in most places throughout Cape York.
• What is excluded from the price of your Cape York tour? Any costs incurred before or after departure. Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary. Any personal items such as newspapers, telephone, alcohol and drinks, laundry, personal and travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance which specifically covers cancellation fees , most claims arise from either personnel or close-family illness before departure resulting in cancellation charges. We suggest you talk to your car, home or life insurer and purchase a policy that will cover you for cancellation fees in the unlikely event that you need to cancel your Cape York tour.
• What is included in the price of your Cape York Tours from Cairns? If on a camping tour – all camping equipment including tents with a floor built into them, mattresses, National Park fees, land access and usage fees to local communities, all camping fees. If on an accommodated tour – all accommodation costs whilst on tour. Meals as indicated: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D).

Tour Options

9 Day 4WD Cape York Accommodated Tour

Select accommodation, tour summary, securely pay with, enquire about 9 day 4wd cape york accommodated tour.

• First name *
• Last name *
• Phone Number *
• Address Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• Preferred date of travel DD slash MM slash YYYY

• 0 Shopping Cart $ 0.00 -->

Exploring Cape York With The Kids: Our 34 Day Itinerary

Located at the most northerly point of our beautiful country, Cape York whispers of unspoiled wilderness and magic.

Share this entry

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on WhatsApp
• Share on Pinterest
• Share by Mail

Our family of five have travelled far and wide these last few years, yet it was our 34-day Cape York trip to the tip of Queensland Australia that took us to mind-blowing new heights (and we’re not just talking about the geographical kind!).

Located at the most northerly point of our beautiful country, Cape York whispers of unspoiled wilderness and magic. We’d say it “screams magic”, except there’s nothing obtrusive about this region. Cape York is both striking yet serene, grand yet gentle, colourful yet calming.

It’s a rich and varied landscape like nothing we’ve seen before! Picture lush green trees pushing through deep red soil. Awe-inspiring natural waterfalls that fall from sandstone cliffs. Fresh inland swimming holes and crystal blue oceans that allow you to see a world below the surface.

We piled our lives and our babies into the back of our 4WD, latched on the caravan, called up our friends, and together embarked on a month long trip around this breathtaking region.

If you’re looking to explore your own backyard, Cape York should be right up there at the top of your list. Now grab a beer, put your feet up, and prepare to be both inspired, educated and blown away by this breakdown of our 34-day itinerary of Cape York.

Day 1: Endeavour River Escape

Luxury Bush Camping (1 night)

This was a really welcoming – and enormous! – farm stay which we’d recommend as the perfect first stop off on your journey. There were 26 spacious campsites set on the 250 acre property – perfect for the kids to stretch their legs and have a wrestle (hopefully our kids aren’t the only ones that do this after a long car drive?!), you can even bring your dogs if they’re well behaved.

The owners were awesome, the amenities were good, and there was also the option to buy firewood, honey and passionfruit. The spacious layout was suitable for RV’s, tents, camper trailers, caravans and big rigs. A heads up that there is no internet signal at this spot.

Read full Endeavour River Escape review here.

Day 2: Musgrave Roadhouse

Units, Cabins & Camping (1 night)

The kids loved this place! We were able to park on a large patchy grass campsite with a water tap and a spot for our above the ground campfire. There was a small swampy creek home to crocodiles and turtles. You are able to sit and watch the owners feed them each afternoon! For dinner we treated ourselves to takeaway fish and chips which everyone enjoyed.

The showers and toilets were slightly dated but in reasonable condition, and there was paid roadhouse wifi, fuel and EFTPOS available.

A good spot to rest between corrugated roads.

Read full Musgrave Roadhouse review here.

Day 3: Archer River Roadhouse

Single Bedrooms, Units & Camping (1 night)

This was a lovely camp ground two hours south of Weipa (we stayed here again on the way back through). Our favourite part was probably the crystal clear Archer River which was a small walk away. The kids had a ball cooling down there, but a word of warning: don’t try to drive through those waters if they’re flooded! Some poor old mate must have given it a crack because his furniture truck was on it’s side in the river.

The tasty burgers and chips were another favourite of this place, followed closely behind by the alcohol we were able to purchase.

Read full Archer River Roadhouse review here.

Days 4 – 6: Weipa Camping Ground

Lodge, Units & Camping (3 nights)

The facilities here were awesome (almost as amazing as the sunsets!). The kids loved the swimming pool and the playground that was right on the waters edge. If you opt for an unpowered site you can even be beach front (though these were booked out when we stayed).

We did our washing here, so that was instantly a big plus for us! There’s nothing like days on the road in the glorious and ever-changing terrain of Cape York to make you appreciate clean clothes. Food was available some nights at the campground (although we didn’t try it), but we do highly recommend the seafood shop situated in a shed next to one of the locals houses. We got coral trout, calamari, and king prawns then cooked up a feast – it was amazing!

Be sure to check out the off road tracks around Weipa too. We did and ended up with whole beaches to ourselves!

This was a good spot to stock up on food and alcohol (got to keep those priorities in check right?!) Woollies super market was only a five minute walk away.. and to dump your black waste in the public dump point.

The only regret we have was not being able to check out the local fishing which is definitely spot on after talking with locals and other travellers.

Read full Weipa Caravan Park and Camping Ground review here.

Days 7-8: Bramwell Station Tourist Park

Units & Camping (2 nights)

This is the most northerly cattle station in the country and is the start of the OTT (Old Telegraph Track) just a few kilometres down the Peninsula Development Road (PDR) the four wheel drive adventure track. It’s located three hours north of Weipa and five hours south of the tip. It’s normally a bustling little hub with live entertainment every night, but because we visited during COVID it was much quieter.

The owner was very friendly and the tourist park catered to all travellers, with a large grassed area that allowed us enough space to spread out. You can get dinner (and cold beer – again, priorities), just make sure you book early in the day. We will definitely be heading back to experience this place in full swing!

There was fuel available at the roadhouse before the start of the track but we found the most expensive stop in our travels.

Read full Bramwell Station Tourist Park review here.

Days 9-10: Bypass/Telegraph Junction

Camping (2 nights)

This was a quiet, spacious and super basic campsite that didn’t cost us a cent. It could easily fit three vans and and two vehicles but no amenities so would need to be self sufficient . It was convenient to OTT and Fruit Bat Falls, and was very close to the highway – although we felt nicely tucked away.

We used this spot to leave our vans while we had fun on the OTT.

Read full Bypass/Telegraph Track Junction review here.

Days 11-14: Punsand Bay Campground

Cabin & Camping (4 nights)

After two nights at a free campsite we were ready to lap up some luxury, and this campground didn’t disappoint (probably why we stayed four nights!). We celebrated Nathan’s 40th here and had a blast! This place could be best described as a fusion between eclectic Mexico and tropical Fiji.

The showers and toilets were clean, there were washing machines, a swimming pool, shop, restaurant, licensed bar, EFTPOS, plus the site was dog friendly.

We were 10 minutes drive from the tip, so there were countless tracks to explore and local beaches to discover. The landscape was breathtaking and the sunsets spectacular!

After a full day of exploring the kids loved coming back to the campsite to cool off in the above ground pool.

Read full Punsand Bay Campground review here.

Days 15-16: Roko Island

Glamping (2 nights)

Roko Island would have to be the pinnacle of our trip to the tip of the country (no pun intended). We stumbled upon this pearl via a google search and it just might be Australia’s best kept secret!

We were picked up from Punsand Bay and taken to Roko Island on boat, and it was honestly like going back in time (in all the good ways!). The glamping tents were big and spacious, the showers and toilets were created from huge funky stones and concrete (plus they were spotless with great water pressure!), there were camp fires, and the eating area was a Balinese style hut with a backdrop of crystal blue water and a cool old school jetty that twisted out across the sea. We fished off the jetty, fed sharks, and even saw a croc swim by.

It was all catered too, so we didn’t need to prepare any meals or clean up (what’s not to love, right?!).

We experienced so much on Roko Island! We went crabbing and had a ride in a trailer behind a quad bike. We saw grave sites that were hundreds of years old. We watched the sunrise over the other side of the island. Zali and Nathan did a fishing charter where they caught a bunch of large mackerels – Zali said it was the best day of their life!

It was all the kids favourite part of the trip and we will definitely be back there again (and next time we will be staying longer!). If you’re heading to the tip of Australia, a visit to Roko Island is an absolute must!

Read full Roko Island review here.

Days 17-19: Loyalty Beach Campground

House, Lodge & Camping (3 nights)

We stayed right at the front of this campground by the water, and experienced possibly the best sunset of the trip.

There were clean showers and toilets, an eating area, coin operated washing machines, a restaurant and a licensed bar!

The restaurant – which we ate at one night – had a completely outdoor dining set up. We’re talking a toes in the sand and eyes on the ocean kind of deal. This was also an amazing vantage point to see the spectacular sunsets. We would recommend booking a table though, as it’s quite a popular spot.

This was a really clean campground that was pet friendly too.

Read full Loyalty Beach Campground review here.

Days 20-22: Mutee Head

This was our favourite free camp site in Cape York! To think we were beach front with fires, beautiful golden sand, heaps of room and epic sunsets… and it didn’t cost a pretty penny (or even an ugly penny for that matter).

There were council garbage bins which was convenient, and it was a handy spot to access Mutee tracks, which proved to be a lot of fun! We did need the car winching out at one point and used the max tracks in some of the bog holes where we all got stuck.

We only intended to stay one night here, but we loved it so stayed two. Unfortunately we didn’t see any crocs on our visit, however they do get seen here regularly.

Read full Mutee Head Free Campground review here.

Day 23: A Gravel Pit

One of the reasons we love the expression “home is where I park her”, is because of times like this. We literally found a gravel pit on the northern end of the southern part of the OTT to call home for a night. It put us really close to Twin Falls, Elliott Falls, The Sauce Pan, Fruit Bat Falls and OTT.

If you have a large van and are self sufficient, this is an excellent way to position yourself conveniently to both the track and the falls. We were blessed to have an epic sunset that made the place feel much more glamorous than a gravel pit.

Read full Gravel Pit/Old Telegraph Road Camp review here.

Days 24-26: Moreton Telegraph Station

Camping (3 nights)

After a few nights of being self-sufficient we were ready for a powered campsite, some sprawling green grass, and the chance to catch up on our washing – and this spot ticked all those boxes.

There were amenities, a general store, and paid wifi available.

Located on the Wenlock River 293kms from the tip, this campsite was a pretty popular spot. The station had a cool little museum, fishing down at the creek, and was conveniently located close to the Frenchman’s Track (which was heaps of fun!). The kids had a fish, but only caught a cat fish.

If you’re wanting a powered site here, we’d suggest booking in advance. The power and internet run from a generator between 7 am and 8:30pm.

Read full Moreton Telegraph Station Campground review here.

Day 27: Chilli Beach Campground

Camping (1 night)

Whilst this location was amazing, it was a huge drive with the vans. The roads were tough and there was a ton of roadworks. The roads are constantly changing but this definitely was the worst road we were on hitched up to the vans.

We stopped for food and fuel in Lochart River (the supermarket is open on the weekend so check opening hours before you go), and it was then about 20 minutes to Chilli Beach.

Our campsite was right near the beach front and sheltered from the wind. The sunrise was phenomenal and next time we will definitely stay longer!

Read full Chilli Beach Campground review here.

Days 28-29: Coen Exchange Hotel

Hotel, Dongas & Camping (2 nights)

It was by pure luck that we found the Coen pub, but we’re so glad we did. Originally we were planning to stay at The Bend, however we were travelling in a large group with vans and there simply wasn’t enough room for us all.

The owners of this place were new and made us feel right at home. The site was close to the river and a short walk away from a pretty swimming hole. We found a spot under a tree, close to the little undercover camp kitchen.

There were refreshing drinks, pub food (the pub got pretty busy at night), clean amenities and 4G internet – we stayed on an extra night so we could take advantage of this and catch up on some work.

Read full Coen Exchange Hotel Campground review here.

Day 30: Kalpowar Crossing

The scenery on the way to this campsite – and even at the site – was amazing! It was part of a National Park and the drive to the site was gorgeous. There was a walking track from the campsite that stretched along the Normanby River and took us through thick forest which was very dry, and then out into peaceful open woodlands.

We had a fire at night, and the campsite was large enough to fit all of us.

Keep in mind that you will need an online booking for this site and there is no reception there to book.

Read full Kalpowar Crossing Camping Area review here.

Days 31-32: Eddie’s Elim Beach Campground

Oh my goodness, the coloured sand at this spot was a must see! To say it was beautiful would be a huge understatement. We drove up the beach at low tide, and the kids attempted to slide down the huge sand dunes in cardboard boxes – they had such a blast! There was talk that the area could be mined, which would be so devastating.

Our site at the campground was way down the back and it was a long walk to the amenities. There was no power in the amenities at night so be sure to take your night light with you. The mozzies were bad on sundown there too – we got nailed on the first night!

We drove up to Cape Bedford one day, but be warned the road was very narrow with lots of trees. The car got pretty scratched up, although the view was well worth it plus most of them polished out. There were some soft sand parts too and would recommend a high clearance 4WD to access.

We absolutely scored with the weather! There was zero wind and we saw turtles, sharks and heaps of fish. It was like being on top of the world up there – you could see for miles. We would’ve stayed for a week if we could. Next time we’ll pack a picnic and A few drinks so we can settle in and enjoy the stunning sunset.

Read full Eddie’s Elim Beach Campground review here.

Day 33: Archer Point Campground

This campsite was free (we always love a good free site!) but super windy! A little crafty ingenuity saw us with a fairly sheltered spot that we were able to protect further with some clever van placement.

The sunset and sunrise were spectacular and there were a stack of camping spots to choose from. We were also able to have a fire at night. It was the start of the school holidays when we went so it was pretty busy.

Read full Archer Point Campground review here.

Day 34: Lions Den Hotel & Campsite

Donga & Camping (1 night)

This iconic pub and accomodation in Northern QLD oozed character and old-worldly charm. The food was awesome and really good value – we ended up spending an entire afternoon at the pub. The alcohol was cheap, cold and on tap and the pub had a really cool vibe.

There was a small little waterhole at the Loins Den which was beautiful. The kids had a swim but said it was freezing! Our powered site that was right near the toilets which was a bit smelly at times from the septic, but the amazing food and drink made up for that. It was certainly worth a nights stay.

Read full Lion’s Den Hotel and Campground review here.

We really had the best of times and wanted to share our experiences with you. If you have any questions feel free to make contact with us and happy to answer any questions you may have.

Till next time see you on the road.

Nathan, Martene, Zali, Maisie & Matai

You might also like

Would like to know more about the road while towing the van ?

Road was in great condition when we went up in September but definitely can change very quickly with rain or heavy traffic.

Loved reading ur adventures up the cape , iam heading up there as soon as ya can next year , wondering if i should tow the van up all the way ???

Hey Peter, it really depends on your vehicles setup, suspension etc. We did it OK but we have a full off-road setup. Happy to talk more

I know you mentioned a few times if dogs are allowed but how many places can they actually go out of the whole trip. We have one on board all the time ?

Hey Kylie our friends had their dog and we didn’t really feel restricted at all while up the Cape. We could always find locations that were dog friendly.

Thank you for sharing a great adventure….I hope to the trip this year around June / July…no rush for time and was looking at towing a off road camper..what your thoughts in regards to the tracks with an off road camper. Also if you had a choice where would you have spend more time…thank you

Hi We are going to the Cape York mid May and was hoping to get to Chilli Beach. The only problem is our friends have a 23ft caravan. Do you think they would get that into Chilli Beach? Love this itinerary as it is what we want to do. Regards Gayle

Hi Gayle, we are traveling up to Cape York the last week of May this year, just wondered how you found the roads in May & if water stopped you going anywhere plz.?

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

Cookie and Privacy Settings

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.

If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

Driving to Cape York – What You Should Know Before Going

Cape York is a holy grail for many 4WD and off-road enthusiasts. We all want to get to the furthermost tip of Australia at least once in our lifetime.

Driving to Cape York is a challenging experience considering corrugated roads, dust, remoteness, and other hazards. Being prepared for the trip is very important as it can save you and your car.

Note there are not many services around there and normally if something happens to your car you have to call for a tow truck and take it to Weipa or back to Cooktown or Cairns .

In this article we will try to answer all important questions about Cape York, so you can prepare better for your trip.

Hema’s HX-2 Navigator

Explore Australia with  Hema’s HX-2  Navigator, the ultimate GPS system for on and off-road navigation.

Best time to go to Cape York

The best time to go to Cape York is in the dry season, between May and September. Note, it is also the busiest time as the roads are full of cars, and some accommodation places have to be booked in advance. For example, Punsand Bay Camping , the most popular caravan park on the Cape, has to be booked at least four months in advance.

Driving distances in Cape York

Considering big distances in Australia, Cape York tip is only 1030 km from Cairns. However, due to most of the road being dirt, you have to allocate more time to drive safely. Below you can find distances to the biggest attractions and places in the Cape York Peninsula.

How to prepare car for Cape York?

Car preparation is a vital part when planning to go to Cape York. Regardless of if you want to tackle the Old Telegraph track or not, it is a long way to the tip. We did our Cape York trip in 2021 without any issues but we were well prepared. Below is the list of all essentials with an explanation of what they are for.

It’s a good habit to check all the screws in the car and make sure they are not got unscrewed on the corrugated road. This should be done every day when you stop for a night.

Corrugations make driving difficult for all the equipment you have. In particular check the roof rack, any storage boxes on the roof, battery mounts, backlights, or any third party equipment you attached to the car. During our trip, we passed by lost batteries, shovels, and a few solar panels.

Cheap trailers may have issues with suspensions so it is a good idea to check underneath if everything looks normal.

In addition, check fluid and oil levels and it is recommended to change your air filter once you get to Cape York.

What maps do I need for Cape York?

Considering you may end up in some remote places around Cape York, it is best to always have paper maps and GPS navigation as well. This way you will always know where you are.

For the Cape York trip, we used Cape York Atlas and Guide and HX-1 GPS Navigator .

How much of the road to Cape York is sealed?

As of 2021, the road to Weipa is sealed in about 50%. You can check the current progress on the Department of Transport and Main Roads – Road to Weipa page. The unsealed parts can be corrugated badly so make sure you adjust your speed. Be careful, especially when approaching dips.

It’s not advised to overtake a vehicle if you don’t see what is in front of the passing car. There are numerous accidents on PDR due to unsafe driving, so better be slow and safe than sorry.

The remaining bits on Telegraph Road and Bamaga Roads are mostly unsealed, and the corrugations are even worse. Be especially careful in the part between the turnoff to Capitan Billy Landing for 40 km. This part has many bends and horrible corrugations.

When we took our trip in June 2021, the almost undrivable part was the last 25 km before the Jardine ferry. We had to drive really slow, but the shaking was still horrible.

In the last 50 km before the Jardine ferry, we spotted 5 cars on the side of the road. One car’s roof rack with a roof tent was laying on the ground. This is why you always check your screws!

If you want to avoid crowds and corrugations drive to Cape York in October. Note, the weather in October is hotter and some places starting to close their facilities in preparation for the wet season.

What’s the easiest way to Cape York?

The easiest way to Cape York is via Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR), Telegraph Road, Bamaga Road, Jardine Ferry and the final bit on Bamaga Road to the tip.

Some people drive to the Cape in 2-3 days from Cairns. We don’t recommend it as this means driving fast and unsafe. It is better to plan your trip ahead and spend a minimum of 2 weeks, but preferably 3 to 4 weeks on the Cape York Peninsula to really see everything.

15 Tips to drive PDR

PRD is a 571 km road between Lakeland and Weipa, learn more about how to safely drive it.

Laura Dance Festival

With sacred dust swirling triumphantly Laura Dance Festival is an event full of amazing cultural experiences.

Weipa- relax on the way to the Cape York

Many travellers plan Weipa as a halfway point on the way to the Cape York tip. Find out why.

How far you can take caravan to Cape York?

In general, we don’t recommend taking caravans to the tip of Cape York. But driving to Weipa is not as challenging and the road is 50% sealed.

Many people drive to Weipa, leave the caravan there, and go to Cape York in their 4WD only. This seems like a good option.

Saying that during our trip we also saw some people with caravans, but is it really worth towing a few tonnes on this unforgiving, dusty road? I leave it up to you.

If you are really keen to take your caravan to Cape York, below are possible destinations.

Where to leave the caravan when going to Cape York?

We don’t recommend taking a caravan to the Cape York tip due to a difficult, corrugated road. Below are the best three options to leave your caravan safely and travel to the tip in your 4WD.

Read more from ExplorOz about what people say about taking a caravan to the tip.

What spares to take to Cape York?

What spare parts to take with you on a Cape York trip is strictly related to if you are going for all the exciting 4WD tracks like Old Telegraph Track, Usher Point, Cape Melville, Old Coach Road or Frenchman tracks. Below is the list to consider.

Is it safe to sleep in a tent or swag?

Considering you should travel to Cape York light, many people sleep in tents or swags.

It is safe to do so if you follow a few simple rules.

• Make sure you set up your camp at least 100 meters from the creek or river where you know there are saltwater crocodiles.
• Close your tent or swag in the evening and for the night.
• Don’t leave any food scraps for the night (to not attract crocodiles ).

If you don’t like sleeping in a tent or swag, another popular way of travelling is having a rooftop tent. We have it too and if you travel only with your partner this is the best, fastest and safest setup.

What is the best part of Cape York?

Unsurprisingly, the best part of the Cape York trip is doing the final tip walk. The 800 meters trail leads you on top of the rocks to the final destination – a sign saying ‘You are standing at the northernmost point of the Australian continent ‘.

The whole walk is beautiful. It gives you 360 degrees view of the surrounding islands and ocean. It is really worth staying there for some time and enjoying this amazing place.

If you were lucky to book your spot at Punsand Bay Caravan Park, after the walk you will be rewarded with the best firewood pizza and a licenced bar.

For us, that evening on the tip was the best and we remembered it for a very long time.

If you thinking of going to Cape York, don’t wait, start planning now – for us it was a lifetime experience.

From red dirt to tropical rainforest. Ten places anyone should add to their bucket list. Subscribe and receive ten colourful infographics.

Please subscribe to receive our monthly newsletter

Enjoy outdoors with tentworld equipment.

Dutch ovens

Did you like our content?

4WD Equipment Checklist

GPS Navigator   or compass

Maxtrax  – if you get bogged, you can use it for additional traction

Tire Deflator   – deflate tires quickly when going on dirt or 4WD

Air Compressor   – inflate tires quickly after going back on bitumen (we use MM)

Tire Repair Kit   – to fix the tire by yourself when you don’t have access to the tire shop (we use Oztrail)

UHF Radio  – for communication with your mates and in emergency

Full Recovery Kit (with Dampener Blanket)  – must-have if you are going on real off-road

High Lift Jack   – useful if you do serious 4WD tracks

Shovel   – useful if you get bogged, also good for campfire cooking

Fuel funnel with water filter   – additional protection when fueling up in dodgy places

Additional fuel canisters

Similar Posts

11 Tips to successful Australian outback camping

Outback camping in Australia is one of the best ways to see all the wonders that Australia has to offer while on a road trip. The distances between attractions can be vast, so in some cases, you may have to stop and camp overnight in the middle of nowhere. It’s important to know how to…

Coober Pedy opals and the awesome underground houses

On the road to Coober Pedy After visiting Woomera, we hit the road again and headed towards Coober Pedy, a distance of only 250 kilometres. However, as we drove further north, the landscape became increasingly wild and untamed. For most of the journey, we drove through a barren desert with only occasional small shrubs to…

12 Best Tableland and Cairns attractions

Regretfully, after two weeks in Port Douglas we ‘cut the roots’ and drove south to Cairns. Port Douglas will remain in our memories for a long time. We will definitely come back here. There were so many Cairns attractions on our list and we could not wait to see them. #1 Cairns Coconut Resort Our…

How to start travel blog in 2021?

How to start travel blog? Have you ever thought about it? I bet you did many times? In my opinion, travel is one of the easiest niches to start a blog. The reason is simple. When you travel, you always take pictures and make videos to keep your memories.  Most people usually post their photos…

5 Reasons to complete a 4WD training course

Driving a 4WD vehicle in the city is a vastly different experience compared to driving a standard car. Off-road driving presents a whole new set of challenges that you wouldn’t encounter in your hometown. For example, crossing rivers, driving on deep sand, tackling steep tracks, or conquering sand dunes are activities that require preparation. Without…

Devils Marbles – stunning Karlu Karlu boulders

Taylor Creek Camping On the way to Devils Marbles and Mataranka, we stopped at Ti Tree. It is a typical roadhouse on the way up, with many Aboriginal people around the place. Later on, we fueled up at Barrow Creek (population 11) and had a little surprise. There was a nice local, historic pub there…

Do I need a 4wd if not doing OTT. We only have a VW transporter van. I live on a farm. Tlhanks.

Hi Jeannine, You definitely need a proper 4WD. Vans are not designed to stand the horrible corrugations and water dips that you may encounter in some parts on main roads (PDR or Bamaga) to Cape York.

Even 4WD struggle with corrugations. This year we saw five 4WDs on the side of the road, on the section between Bramwell Roadhouse and Jardine Ferry. One car had a shattered windscreen and its rooftop tent had fallen on the ground. This is how hard it can get sometimes.

For your reference, we also saw only one van driving to the Cape. An option would be to hire a 4WD or buy one and sell it after your Cape York trip.

With due care you’ll easily bring your 2WD van up during the dry season – certainly through to the end of October. We have plenty of vans, from old VW Combies through to modern Transits, coming up here every season without issue. And 2WD cars too. So come on up and enjoy! Cheers, Steve

Hi Steve, Maybe at the end of the season, it is possible to bring a van. The corrugations are smaller and there is less traffic. Personally, I would only consider a 4WD. Thanks for your input.

Is it possible to hike to Cape York along the roads, other than the risks involved near creeks/rivers from crocodiles? I was wondering if it might be possible to make it by walking and hitching across the creeks for safety?

You would not like to hike on the road. There are plenty of cars passing and the amount of dust is enormous. This is not a pleasant experience and is very unsafe.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and receive the 10 Best National Parks Infographics.

absolutely stunning k'gari

formerly Fraser Island

accommodation of all descriptions

click here for accommodation options

another stunning sunset

Daintree rainforest

not to be missed

Cape York, a rugged peninsula located at the northern tip of Australia, is a land of untouched wilderness, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. CapeYork.au is your ultimate guide to exploring this remote and beautiful region, offering insights into the best experiences, travel tips, and cultural knowledge to help adventurers and nature enthusiasts discover the heart of Cape York. As an advertising platform, we emphasize our role in promoting tourism and exploration in Cape York without implying ownership or direct operation of the tours and attractions featured.

Cairns holiday

Holiday in Australia

Australian sightseeing

Visitor Centre

Journey to the wild.

Cape York is renowned for its expansive savannas, dense rainforests, and pristine beaches, making it a paradise for those seeking adventure off the beaten path. CapeYork.au highlights the diverse range of activities available, from 4WD adventures along rugged tracks to serene river cruises observing unique wildlife. The peninsula's natural wonders, including the iconic Tip of Australia, provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration.

Rich Indigenous Culture

The Indigenous heritage of Cape York is profound, with communities maintaining strong connections to their land and traditions. CapeYork.au respects and promotes cultural tours and experiences that offer visitors a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, art, and lifestyle. By engaging with local guides and participating in cultural activities, visitors can gain invaluable insights into the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture that shapes Cape York.

Eco-friendly Exploration

CapeYork.au is committed to sustainable tourism, emphasizing the importance of preserving Cape York's unique ecosystems and cultural sites. We encourage travelers to engage in eco-conscious practices, such as adhering to leave-no-trace principles and supporting Indigenous-led tours. Our platform showcases eco-friendly accommodation options and tours that contribute to the conservation of the region's natural and cultural heritage.

Adventure Awaits

For those drawn to the thrill of discovery, Cape York offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure. From fishing in remote rivers teeming with barramundi to camping under the stars in untouched landscapes, CapeYork.au guides you through the myriad of experiences that make Cape York a destination like no other. Whether it's trekking through ancient rainforests or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, Cape York promises adventure at every turn.

Plan Your Cape York Adventure

CapeYork.au is your comprehensive resource for planning an unforgettable journey to one of Australia's most remote and remarkable destinations. With travel tips, accommodation guides, and detailed itineraries, we make it easy for travelers to navigate the challenges and rewards of exploring Cape York. Join us in discovering the beauty, adventure, and culture of Cape York, where every journey is an exploration of the extraordinary.

ADVERTISING PRODUCTS

FIXED PRICE ADVERTISING

KNOW YOUR COSTS

limited advert slots

ADVERTISING GROUPS

EXTEND YOUR BUDGET

limited membership

CORPORATE ADVERTISING

USE YOUR EXPERTISE

put on your best face

Destinations

Travel Types

Land journey, ocean cruise, rail journey, river cruise, tailor made journeys.

• Inspiration
• Why Travel With Us

Travel agent

Tour personaliser.

• 1300 208 712

Find your next trip

Canada, alaska and usa, new zealand, about travelmarvel, travel insider magazine, why travel with us, enhance your journey, authentic flavours, premium accommodation, insider experiences, book with confidence, traveller club, accreditations, responsible tourism, travel information, travel agent, travelmarvel, cape york and tropical north by 4wd.

Cairns Return

• Check Availability & Book Now
• Travel & Accommodation

Map & Itinerary

Similar trips, trip inclusions.

• Six nights' premium accommodation
• Travel aboard a custom-designed 4WD vehicle with a maximum of just 20 guests
• The services of an expert Travelmarvel Driver Guide
• 17  meals –  6  breakfasts, 5  lunches,  6  dinners
• Visit  Rinyirru  (Lakefield) National Park
• Stand on the tip of Cape York, continental Australia’s northernmost point
• Learn of Thursday Island’s WWII history and trading importance
• Itinerary, hotels and inclusions are subject to change
• Prices include transfers as per the itinerary
• Prices include airport transfers
• Prices are land only. Flights not included (unless specified)

Designed exclusively for our guests

Insider Experience

Enjoy an included special or unique excursion or event

Cairns, Cooktown

Leave Cairns early this morning in your custom-built 4WD vehicle. Traverse the picturesque Mulligan Highway, passing through the charming towns of Julatten and Mt Molloy along the way. Upon reaching Cooktown, you'll be warmly welcomed to your accommodation and enjoy a sumptuous Welcome Dinner.

Stay: Cooktown, The Sovereign Resort Hotel

Quinkan Country, Laura, Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park, Musgrave

Insider experience.

An Indigenous guide takes you through Quinkan Country, which UNESCO ranks as one of the top 10 rock art places in the world. The guide introduces you to Split Rock, the most famous of the Quinkan sites, where illustrations of spirit being figures, native animals and totems were painted between 15,000 and 40,000 years ago.

Following your Quinkan Country visit, continue to the heritage-listed Old Laura Homestead. Later, drive into Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park, where you will find a range of animals, including crocodiles and wallabies, as well as plentiful bird life.

Stay: Musgrave Roadhouse

Coen, Weipa

Explore the old gold mining town of Coen, where the precious metal was first discovered in 1876. When the Great Northern Mine was established in 1893 Coen underwent a boom period, but by 1916 the mine was closed and the town resumed its quiet existence. Afterwards stop at the Archer River Roadhouse for lunch, halfway along your day’s travels. Then resume your journey to the town of Weipa, the largest community on the Cape York Peninsula.

Stay: Weipa, Albatross Bay Resort

Weipa, Bramwell Station

Today you can enjoy a relaxing boat trip from Weipa (additional charge), learning about the area’s ecology, mining industry and Indigenous culture as you look for saltwater crocodiles. Afterwards, travel to Bramwell Station.

Stay: Bramwell Station

Fruit Bat Falls, Cape York

Check out Bramwell Junction’s imposing termite mounds before heading to Fruit Bat Falls, where you can enjoy a cooling swim in the clear waters of the Elliott River. Take a ferry across the Jardine River, then head north through the traditional land of the Injinoo people.

Stay: Two Nights, Cape York Peninsula Lodge

Tip of Cape York

Walk this morning to the tip of Cape York Peninsula and revel in standing at the northernmost point of the Australian mainland. The views over the turquoise sea and offshore islands of Torres Strait are sublime.

Today, celebrate being among the most northerly people on the Australian continent as you wind along a 4WD track to Frangipani Beach, on the western side of Cape York just below the tip. Later, continue to historic Somerset Hill, the site of a station established by John Jardine in 1863 – the first European settlement on Cape York. From Somerset Beach there are fine views of Albany Island, just offshore. Here, learn the stories of ‘Jackey Jackey’, an early Indigenous guide, and Frank Jardine, the son of the station’s founder, who became the local police magistrate and was involved in numerous killings of Indigenous people.

Thursday Island, Horn Island, Cairns

Take the ferry across the picturesque Endeavour Strait to fascinating Thursday Island. Once a pearling centre, Thursday Island became a major defence post during World War II. The labyrinth of tunnels and rooms at Green Hill Fort now house the Torres Strait Museum. You’ll then take the local ferry to Horn Island, where you will board your flight to Cairns, enjoying the magnificence of the Great Barrier Reef from a bird’s-eye view en route. Your journey ends at Cairns Airport.

Everything was wonderful. There were great sight seeing trips and the guides were very knowledgeable.

Kimberley Adventure by 4WD

Broome Return

Gulf Savannah Discovery by 4WD

Wonders of the Kimberley by 4WD

Protect Your Trip »

18 most romantic getaways in new york state.

Some of the most romantic destinations in the U.S. can be found in New York State.

Romantic Getaways in New York

Courtesy of The Otesaga Resort Hotel

From relaxing at a lake to exploring the city, New York offers plenty of options for a romantic vacation.

It's nearly impossible not to find love in a state that's served as the backdrop for so many romantic films, from "Dirty Dancing" in the Catskills to the countless classics – think "Annie Hall," "When Harry Met Sally," "You've Got Mail" – set in New York City . In popular sitcom "The Office," Pam and Jim tie the knot beneath Niagara Falls , otherwise known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World."

Even off-screen, romance abounds in New York state's top destinations , from the Finger Lakes to the Adirondacks . Though the options for a couples vacation in the Empire State may actually be endless, these are some of the best places to spend a romantic weekend (or longer) in New York – including several ideal weekend getaways from New York City .

Most Romantic Getaways in New York State

• Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa
• Mirbeau Inn & Spa
• Belhurst Castle and Winery
• The Lake House on Canandaigua

Cooperstown

• Glenmere Mansion
• Mohonk Mountain House

The Catskills

Niagara falls.

• Hutton Brickyards

New York City

• Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club
• Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

Westchester County

• Whiteface Lodge
• The Sagamore Resort

Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa: Aurora

Courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa comprises five historic inns and a cottage, each with their own distinctive vibe. The Aurora Inn (the site's original hotel), built in 1833, blends vintage furnishings with modern amenities, while the Rowland House, built in 1903, is a more eclectic option. All guest rooms are equipped with plush bathrobes; some even feature fireplaces and views of Cayuga Lake, perfect for cuddling up to admire the spectacular sunsets.

Lovebirds can enjoy complimentary coffee and homemade granola bars each morning, a glass of local wine in the evenings, and seasonal s'mores by the lakefront fire pit. You'll also find candlelit dining at the 1833 Kitchen & Bar and culinary classes just down the street from the Aurora Inn. Explore the beauty of the Finger Lakes with complimentary gear such as kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards; bicycles; telescopes for stargazing; bird-watching binoculars; and more.

The highlight of any stay at the Inns of Aurora is its spa, a 15,000-square-foot healing and wellness center less than a mile from the main hotel property. Opened in 2021, the state-of-the-art facility features 10 treatment rooms where you can enjoy a variety of signature and customized treatments, as well as a full-service salon. All spa services come with a seasonal menu of fare at the on-site cafe, six jetted spa pools with optional hydrotherapy circuits, steam rooms, a sauna and fire pits.

Address: 391 Main St., Aurora, NY 13026

Read: The Best Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa: Skaneateles

Courtesy of Mirbeau Inn & Spa

The sweet town of Skaneateles – brimming with boutique shops, art galleries and lakefront restaurants – merits a trip to the Finger Lakes. But for the ultimate in romance, book a stay at Mirbeau Inn & Spa . This French-inspired spa resort features an elegant spa, overnight accommodations and on-site dining.

Guests have the option to stay in a traditional guest room or private cottage, all of which come with fireplaces and large bathrooms with soaking tubs. Book the Mirbeau Signature Couples Massage or Art of Living couples experience and enjoy use of a heated foot pool, steam rooms and the outdoor Aqua Terrace – which features a heated spa pool with massage jets and a waterfall, a cozy fireplace, and a private bar where you can order beverages and light fare. Afterward, enjoy lunch or dinner at The Bistro & Wine Bar, where breakfast and Sunday brunch are also served. Previous guests rave about this resort, calling it serene and magical.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa also has locations in Rhinebeck, New York (Hudson River Valley), and Plymouth, Massachusetts ( Cape Cod ).

Address: 851 W. Genesee Street Road, Skaneateles, NY 13152

Belhurst Castle and Winery: Geneva

Courtesy of Belhurst Castle and Winery

In the Finger Lakes, not only can you taste some of the world's best rieslings, but you can also spend the night in a castle – with a winery. Located on the shores of Seneca Lake, Belhurst Castle and Winery provides the perfect setting for a romantic getaway in New York.

While the property consists of three hotels, the Chambers in the Castle is the most romantic option for couples. Here, 11 Victorian-era guest rooms – each architecturally and stylistically distinct – feature antique furnishings, some with four-poster beds. There are also three cottages available to rent. Guests of the Chambers enjoy cozy fireplaces and complimentary wine from a self-serve wine spigot.

In addition to wine, Belhurst makes its own craft beer and hard cider, which patrons can enjoy at the winery tasting room or two on-site restaurants. The hotel also offers a spa and salon. The hotel reviews of Belhurst Castle are mixed, but most recent guests agree the staff is wonderful and the property is beautiful.

Address: 4069 W. Lake Road, Geneva, NY 14456

Read: The Top Finger Lakes Wineries to Visit

The Lake House on Canandaigua: Canandaigua

Courtesy of The Lake House on Canandaigua

The Lake House is the first hotel of its kind to open on Canandaigua Lake, the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes. The eco-conscious hotel uses its natural environment to provide holistic luxury to guests – from creekside barrel saunas at the on-site Willowbrook Spa to meals made with local ingredients at the Rose Tavern and Sand Bar. Of course, guests can enjoy Canandaigua Lake via kayak, stand-up paddleboard, private boat charter or even a morning coffee cruise. Light and airy guest rooms and suites feature handcarved furniture, rain showers, and plush robes and slippers; some first-floor rooms are pet-friendly.

When booking your stay, consider the "Romance at The Lake" package, which includes overnight accommodations, a spa credit and a Rose Tavern credit for a candlelit dinner, as well as wine and chocolate upon arrival.

If you can peel yourself from the property, take time to enjoy the award-winning wines and delicious food on the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail.

Address: 770 S. Main St., Canandaigua, NY 14424

Courtesy of The Otesaga

Cooperstown is undeniably family-friendly – it's home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and Cooperstown Dreams Park, after all. But this central New York village is also ideal for a romantic weekend getaway, whether you and your beau are baseball fans or not.

Nicknamed "America's Most Perfect Village," Cooperstown boasts plenty of boutiques, breweries and art galleries, such as the Fenimore Art Museum, located on a property once owned by James Fenimore Cooper, author of "The Last of the Mohicans." In the winter, you and your partner can also try cross-country skiing or showshoeing at Glimmerglass State Park.

The village's grand dame, The Otesaga Resort Hotel, features romantic accommodations in which couples can wake up to the sun rising over Otsego Lake. Seasonally, hotel guests can enjoy water sports on the lake and cocktails at the outdoor Fire Bar overlooking the water. The luxury resort also features the Hawkeye Spa and fine dining at 1909 on Friday evenings. Other romantic dining options in Cooperstown include Brewery Ommegang (once famous for its limited-edition "Game of Thrones"-inspired beers); Nicoletta's Italian Café; and Origins Cafe, a farm-to-table restaurant inside of a greenhouse.

Glenmere Mansion: Chester

Courtesy of Glenmere Mansion

You'd never guess that this 150-acre estate is located in the U.S., let alone that it's only around 70 miles from New York City. Constructed in 1911, the mansion – then the summer home of industrialist Robert Goet – sits in the countryside of the Hudson Valley, intended to resemble the villas of Tuscany at the time. Now a Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel , Glenmere Mansion features more than a dozen guest rooms, each one thoughtfully redesigned and unique. Most rooms have fireplaces, and many offer terraces.

Romantic retreats can (and should) include indulging at the Glenmere spa, which features a tandem suite with side-by-side soaking tubs and treatment tables. Guests of the spa enjoy pre- or post-treatment tapas and access to a variety of amenities, including an herbal steam room, dry heat sauna and a Swiss shower.

Visitors at Glenmere also have access to four fine dining venues and local activities such as historic sightseeing and wine tasting at the award-winning Brotherhood Winery, widely considered the oldest winery in the U.S. Note that Glenmere Mansion is an adults-only resort . Many previous guests praise Glenmere, noting that the food is exceptionally good.

Address: 634 Pine Hill Road, Chester, NY 10918

Mohonk Mountain House: New Paltz

Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Perhaps the grandest of all the mansions and castles in New York (and the U.S.) is Mohonk Mountain House. Founded in 1869, the resort can be found tucked into the Hudson Valley, less than 100 miles from New York City.

Another major draw? It's one of few all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. Rates include three farm-to-table meals daily plus afternoon tea and cookies; a roster of activities, spanning water sports on Lake Mohonk to 85 scenic miles of hiking trails; wellness offerings such as a spa and fitness classes; nightly entertainment including live music and seasonal campfires; and, for families, additional kid-specific activities. Couples can choose Victorian-style guest room or suite accommodations with wood-burning fireplaces in the Mountain House, or opt to stay in the more private Grove Lodge.

While this National Historic Landmark resort is pricey, previous guests agree the cost is well worth the experience.

Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

Courtesy of Urban Cowboy Lodge

While the Catskills may always be synonymous with "Dirty Dancing," the region looks a bit different than it did when Frances "Baby" Houseman and Johnny Castle fell in love here. A boom in boutique lodging options is once again attracting travelers to an area that saw a period of decline from the 1970s until recent years.

Modern-day Babys and Johnnys can now go glamping at AutoCamp Catskills; spend the night at Wylder Windham, a full-service boutique hotel next to Windham Mountain Resort; relax in rustic-luxe rooms with soaking tubs at Urban Cowboy Lodge; tuck into cozy cabins at Eastwind Windham, which also features standalone saunas in the woods; or even spend the night at a revamped retro motel such as the Starlite Motel, with its outdoor pool. Throughout the region couples will also find breweries and cideries, U-pick farms, and (of course) the outdoor adventures that first put the Catskills on the map: skiing, hiking, biking and more.

Read: The Top Catskills Resorts

Courtesy of Niagara Falls USA

Known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," Niagara Falls is the original romantic getaway in New York. Couples in search of romance have been visiting the region since the 1800s, particularly after the Erie Canal opened. Connecting the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River, the canal – along with railroad expansions – made Niagara Falls a more accessible vacation destination for honeymooners.

Today, couples who want to experience the beauty of this natural wonder can hike or bike scenic trails at Niagara Falls State Park. You and your sweetheart can also watch a nightly illumination of the falls from a cozy blanket in the park, which is an especially colorful spectacle during Pride Month. Of course, there are plenty of guided tours in Niagara Falls , including the iconic Maid of the Mist (where Pam and Jim said their vows).

The New York side of Niagara Falls is home to a large wine region, with the Niagara Wine Trail offering more than a dozen wineries. For romantic accommodations, look to The Giacomo in the heart of downtown. Built in 1929 as the United Office Building, The Giacomo is now a luxury boutique hotel with architecture that blends art deco and Mayan Revival styles. In-room amenities include a nightly cookie delivery and panoramic views; select rooms have whirlpool baths and fireplaces. Duos can grab cocktails at the Giacomo Lounge before taking advantage of the "Sweetheart Package," complete with a bottle of Champagne, souvenir glasses, chocolate truffles and a rose petal display.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Hutton Brickyards: Kingston

Jane Beiles | Courtesy of Hutton Brickyards

The Hudson Valley's last architecturally intact brick manufactory, Hutton Brickyards, sits on more than 70 lush acres overlooking the Hudson River. Here, lovebirds can hide out in waterfront cabins and luxurious suites designed to optimize privacy, then enjoy on-site activities such as spa treatments, yoga, sip-and-paint sessions, archery, kayaking and nature walks. The property's alfresco waterfront restaurant, The River Pavilion, serves elevated wood-fired cuisine alongside the fireplaces. Other upscale eateries as well as boutiques can be found in downtown Kingston.

Within view of the Rhinecliff Amtrak station, Hutton Brickyards is an easy trip for New Yorkers seeking some respite from the busy city. Previous guests can't say enough good things about this seemingly hidden gem, noting that the cabins are especially cozy.

Address: 200 North St., Kingston, NY 12401

Courtesy of The High Line Hotel

Reenact your favorite rom-com moment in New York City, where there are endless places to fall in love – from world-class museums and award-winning restaurants to studio tours, skyline views and some of the country's best Pride events . In the architecturally awe-inspiring Hudson Yards neighborhood, which officially opened in 2019, lovers will find shopping, dining, special events and an on-site hotel.

Speaking of hotels, while the city may never sleep, you probably will, and there's no shortage of romantic lodging options in New York City. At The James New York – NoMad , which sits just steps from the Museum of Sex, curious couples can participate in intimacy workshops that teach you and your partner how to connect breath, emotions and sensations. Another potential accommodation choice is The High Line Hotel , a Parisian-style property whose Remote View garden serves extrasensory cocktails inspired by Ingo Swann, known as a pioneering psychic. At the TWA Hotel, meanwhile, guests enjoy the glamour of 1960s travel (think "Mad Men") as you sip martinis by a rooftop pool that overlooks the runways of John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Read: The Top Statue of Liberty Cruises

Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club: Sloatsburg

Jean Francois-Jaussaud | Courtesy of Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club

A fitness-focused resort, the Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is ideal for active couples in search of a romantic weekend getaway in New York. The sprawling resort – a popular destination for weddings and other events – is surrounded by 70,000 scenic acres that afford myriad activities, including guided hiking, biking and kayaking tours. The resort also features an expansive fitness center, a variety of fitness and wellness programs, and a 75-foot outdoor swimming pool. Romantic activities include browsing the hotel's organic market and art gallery with its bookstore, cozying up by the outdoor fire pits, enjoying in-room spa treatments and dining at farm-to-table restaurants.

The four historic guesthouses are each equipped with three to five luxurious bedrooms and porches – perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning. The Farm House and Twin Peaks allow you to book only one bedroom and enjoy exclusive use of the home during your stay, making them ideal for a couples weekend.

The Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is about an hour's ride from New York City via the ShortLine Hudson bus from Manhattan; the resort is conveniently located next to the bus stop and train station in Sloatsburg.

Address: 27 Mill St., Sloatsburg, NY 10974

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa: Montauk

Courtesy of Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

An icon in the Hamptons, Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is situated on Montauk's picturesque stretch of oceanfront real estate. Hotel patrons enjoy access to a private beach and ocean views from luxury rooms, suites and beachfront cottages. In-room amenities include wet bars, Nespresso machines, and cozy robes and slippers. Couples can also take in the ocean vistas hand in hand from the Firepit outdoor lounge or relax at The Beach Club. Following a $20 million renovation, the resort's Seawater Spa features new indoor-outdoor spa suites with private soaking tubs, perfect for couples.

While many local hotels close for the winter, Gurney's Montauk is open year-round, so lovebirds can visit whenever the mood strikes. Reviewers say the resort is top-notch, with some noting it's just as good – and less crowded – in the offseason.

Address: 290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954

Read: The Top Things to Do in Long Island

Courtesy of Discover Long Island

While the Hamptons remains an elite vacation spot on Long Island, the North Fork has been giving that resort destination a run for its money – especially in recent years. Thanks to an ideal terroir for growing grapes, Long Island has an established wine scene, with most of the vineyards and wineries located on the North Fork. You'll find many of the region's wineries along Route 25 (the main thoroughfare); guided wine tours with a personal driver are a popular way to taste the region's signature wines, which include merlot, cabernet franc and chardonnay. In June, many of the wineries celebrate Pride Month.

The area is also dotted with U-pick farms and farmers markets, some of which sell another local delicacy: oysters. For an essential North Fork experience, pair your oysters with wine at places such as Terra Vite North Fork Winery & Vineyard and Peconic Bay Vineyards – the latter offers oyster happy hours seasonally.

Couples can relax by the seaside in Orient Beach State Park, where beachgoers enjoy kayaking, windsurfing, fishing and other opportunities for outdoor recreation. Round out your romantic getaway in Long Island with a game of golf and some upscale dining, then check into one of the North Fork's boutique hotels or bed-and-breakfasts .

Courtesy of Abbey Inn & Spa

Often considered New York City's sixth borough, Westchester County is perfect for a weekend getaway with your partner. Just north of Manhattan, set between the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester County offers a little bit of everything: quaint river towns (including the legendary Sleepy Hollow), beaches, historic landmarks, seasonal events, and hiking and biking trails galore. You can also traverse the Westchester Farm Trail, which encompasses 13 farms and orchards with markets, U-pick options and more.

Romantic accommodations in Westchester County include the Bedford Post Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property with just eight rooms (many with fireplaces) and two highly rated farm-to-table restaurants. The Abbey Inn and Spa, which overlooks the Hudson River, is another lovely lodging option: Once a convent, the stunning building now houses luxurious guest rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a full-service spa where you and your lover can unwind with a lava stone couples massage.

Whiteface Lodge: Lake Placid

Courtesy of Whiteface Lodge

It doesn't get more romantic than Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid. The AAA Four Diamond resort boasts a variety of rustic-luxe suites (including one-bedroom options), most with cast-iron fireplaces, jetted tubs, and patios or balconies. Romantic on-site amenities and activities include evening drinks under the stars in a private lean-to; a spa with hot tubs, steam rooms and saunas; ice skating in the winter; and fine dining at Kanu, where guests say the atmosphere alone is worth a dinner reservation.

A two-time host of the Winter Olympics, Lake Placid offers a variety of Olympics-inspired museums and experiences, with unique winter activities including bobsledding at Mount Van Hoevenberg and dog-sledding on frozen Mirror Lake. Of course, there's also skiing, snowboarding and the like at Whiteface Mountain, one of the best ski resorts in New York . While you're visiting, take time for a romantic stroll along Lake Placid's Main Street, which looks like a Norman Rockwell painting. Previous guests adore Whiteface Lodge, noting that it's ideal for both couples and families.

Address: 7 Whiteface Inn Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946

The Sagamore Resort: Bolton Landing

Courtesy of The Sagamore Resort

There are plenty of vacation rentals on Lake George, but if you're looking for the ultimate escape with your partner, book a stay at The Sagamore Resort (part of the Opal Collection). Located on a 70-acre private island in the Adirondacks, the hotel features award-winning dining, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service spa, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Especially unique is the annual Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge, where 18,000 pounds of crystal-clear ice are transformed to create an Antarctic setting overlooking Lake George.

If you're seeking a private outdoor space and/or fireplace, a spacious option is a two-bedroom condo (or perhaps a four-room condo or house if you're traveling with other couples). Otherwise, you'll be perfectly comfortable in a lodge room or suite, some of which also come with fireplaces or balconies. Previous guests say this historic resort – first opened in 1883 and even considered by some to be a haunted hotel – is absolutely majestic.

Address: 110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing, NY 12814

Troutbeck: Amenia

Courtesy of Troutbeck

Tuck into Troutbeck, a historic estate hotel whose most famous guests include Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Located in the Hudson Valley, the hotel features field-to-fork dining led by Michelin-starred chef Gabe McMackin, as well as The Barns, a wellness facility featuring yoga, meditation and Kinesoma classes (dance-based movement). The wellness offerings also include services such as acupuncture and massages. An outdoor swimming pool and grill, hammock and picnic sites, tennis courts, and free bike rentals complement the serene setting.

For an especially romantic lodging option, book the Dunham Suite, named for its lovely view of the nearby creek. The suite features a king-size, four-poster bed; a gas fireplace; a wet bar with a minifridge; heated bathroom flooring; and a standalone soaking tub and separate rain shower. Recent guests say they enjoyed the beauty and history of this hotel from the 1700s.

Address: 515 Leedsville Road, Amenia, NY 12501

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross has traveled to New York countless times, most recently for a stay at the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa. Of all the places she's visited, she maintains that upstate New York is one of the most romantic destinations in the U.S .

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Getaways in Ohio
• The Most Romantic Getaways in New Jersey
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania

Tags: Travel , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024