Cairns To Cape York 9-Day Fully Accommodated & Inclusive Tour

Overview

Explore Australia’s Most Northern Tip

9 Day / 8 Night Cairns to Cape York Tour – Fully Accommodated. Join a small group of likeminded guests for the journey of a lifetime in North Queensland. 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 six 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 personal 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 & Fly/Drive. A showcase of history, culture and our pioneering past.

  • This tour operates as both a Drive/Fly & Fly/Drive and the itinerary and inclusions for both options are the same, the tour is just conducted in reverse.
  • Please note this tour is not suitable for infants.

Highlights

  • 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
  • Crossing between Cape & Thursday Island
  • Flight between Horn Island & Cairns
  • Great Barrier Reef

Itinerary

CAPE YORK TOUR DRIVE/FLY

DAY 1. CAIRNS TO DAINTREE RAINFOREST

Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Daintree: Ferntree Rainforest Lodge (ensuite)
Leaving Cairns we head north along Queensland’s Great Ocean Road towards Daintree, where we will join the 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 to 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.

DAY 2. DAINTREE RAINFOREST TO COOKTOWN

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Cooktown: Seaview Motel (ensuite)

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).

DAY 3. COOKTOWN TO COEN

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Coen: Coen Guesthouse (share bathroom)

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.

DAY 4. COEN TO LOCKHART RIVER

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / Accommodation Lockhart River: Greenhoose (ensuite)

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.

DAY 5. LOCKHART RIVER

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / Accommodation Lockhart River: Greenhoose (ensuite)

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 RIVER TO WEIPA

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / Accommodation Weipa: Weipa Motel Resort (ensuite)

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.

DAY 7. WEIPA TO CAPE YORK

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / Accommodation Seisia: Loyalty Beach (share bathroom)

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.

DAY 8. CAPE YORK TO THE TIP

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / Accommodation Seisia: Loyalty Beach (share bathroom)

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 9. CAPE YORK TO THURSDAY ISLAND & CAIRNS

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch / Flight from Horn Island to Cairns

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 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 5.00pm. Transfer back to your Cairns CBD accommodation.

CAPE YORK TOUR FLY/DRIVE

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 / Accommodation Seisia: Loyalty Beach (share bathroom)

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

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / 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

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / 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

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner / Accommodation Lockhart River: Greenhoose (ensuite)

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

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Cooktown: Seaview Motel (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

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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

Rates

RATES
RATES 2024 – BOOK NOW
Adult (Twin share) $7,550
Adult Concession (Twin share) $7,450
Adult (Single) $8,650
Adult Concession (Single) $8,550
Private Charter - Flexible Departure dates to suit - From $7,800
2024 CAIRNS TO CAPE YORK - DRIVE/FLY
May 7, 2024 May 15, 2024
May 31, 2024 June 8, 2024
June 24, 2024 July 2, 2024
July 19, 2024 July 27, 2024
August 12, 2024 August 20, 2024
September 6, 2024 September 14, 2024
October 1, 2024 October 9, 2024
2024 CAPE YORK TO CAIRNS - FLY/DRIVE
May 17, 2024 May 24, 2024
June 10, 2024 June 18, 2024
July 4, 2024 July 12, 2024
July 29, 2024 August 6, 2024
August 22, 2024 August 30, 2024
September 16, 2024 September 24, 2024
October 11, 2024 October 19, 2024

This tour departs Cairns on set dates (as above). Maximum of 6 passengers, per vehicle. Please note that Single Travelers must book a “single” rate 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. Departure and Return times are approximate. 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.

Terms and Conditions

Inclusions

What's Included

  • Small group- offering unrivalled, friendly and personalised service
  • Modern 4WD vehicle and experienced driver 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 a Short tour of the island
  • Cruise to Horn Island and Short tour of the Island
  • Flight with QANTAS
  • Queensland’s “Great Ocean Road”
  • Daintree National Park and Ferry Crossing
  • Cape Tribulation and its sandy beaches
  • Mardja boardwalk
  • Bloomfield Track & Falls
  • Cedar Bay National Park
  • Lion’s Den Pub
  • Black Mountain
  • Lakefield National Park
  • Old Laura Homestead
  • Batavia Downs
  • Wenlock River
  • Elliot Falls
  • Fruit Bat Falls
  • Jardine River
  • Seisia
  • Experienced Local Naturalist/ Accredited Tour Guides

Checklists

WHAT TO BRING

  • Camera
  • Comfortable clothing and footwear
  • Wallet
  • Hat
  • Water & Water Bottle
  • Insect Repellent & Sunscreen 30+
  • Small Overnight “soft” Style Bag (no suitcases or bags with wheels)
  • A comprehensive Check List will be provided after booking
  • Luggage is restricted to ONE Soft Bag per passenger (no suitcases), weighing no more than 10kgs + ONE Small Backpack/Day Pack.

FAQ's

Cape York

Do you offer pick ups from hotels and caravan parks for your Cape York Tour?

Yes, we offer complimentary pick up from all Cairns City/CBD Hotels & Caravans Parks.

What is the vehicle make for the Cape York Tour

We travel in late model Toyota Landcruiser’s

What sort of concession cards can we use?

Our Concession Rate is applicable for Senior & Pension Card Holders.

All Inclusive Price

from $7,450

9 DAY CAPE YORK TOUR - DRIVE/FLY

BOOK NOW

9 DAY CAPE YORK TOUR - FLY/DRIVE

BOOK NOW

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