• This is our premium 12 day Cape York Drive/Fly tour of outback Queensland with all departures leaving from Cairns.
• Explore Atherton Tablelands, Chillagoe, Cape Tribulation, Cooktown, Lockhart River, Weipa and Cape York.
• Brand new four wheel drive vehicles can accommodate up to 6 guests for private charter tours and shared charter tours. 
• Low level scenic flight from Horn Island in Cape York to Cairns. 

Explore Cape York, with this all Inclusive tour in brand new luxury 4WD vehicles with your tour guide. This is our premium 12 day Cape York tour that is a combined drive/fly premium tour for those that like a bit of comfort.

Cape York Tours - Departure Dates 2026 from Cairns

Please see below 2026 departure dates:

• 11th May 2026
• 31st May 2026
• 20th June 2026
• 12th July 2026
• 1st August 2026
• 24th August 2026

12 Day 4WD Premium Cape York Tour Sample Itinerary

Day 1. Cairns to Atherton Tablelands / Yungaburra

Your Cape York adventure begins as you depart Cairns and ascend into the lush Atherton Tablelands. Stop to admire the crystal-clear waters of Babinda Boulders and the towering Mount Bartle Frere before exploring the enchanting Paronella Park. Continue to the stunning Millaa Millaa Falls, the ancient Curtain Fig Tree, and the charming heritage village of Yungaburra. End your day with a visit to Mungalli Creek Dairy Farm before settling into your comfortable retreat.

• Accommodation: Ensuite Room – Eden House Retreat
• Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2. Yungaburra to Chillagoe

Set off early and travel through the Tablelands and Atherton region, following the scenic Wheelbarrow Way. Pass through fertile farmlands, cattle country, and wooded savannah landscapes before arriving in Chillagoe. In the afternoon, join a guided Chillagoe Caves Tour to explore the fascinating limestone formations and learn about the area’s geological history.

• Accommodation: Chillagoe Observatory
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3. Chillagoe to Daintree Rainforest

Depart Chillagoe, passing through Mareeba with a stop at Coffee Works for a tasting experience. Continue to Kuranda and take a stroll along the Barron Falls Boardwalk before joining the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef Drive north. Enjoy a Daintree River Crocodile Cruise, visit Alexandra Range Lookout and the Ice Cream Factory, explore the Marddja Boardwalk, and end your day in Cape Tribulation with an evening rainforest walk.

• Accommodation: Rainforest Loft (Ensuite) – Ferntree Rainforest Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4. Daintree Rainforest to Cooktown

Journey along the iconic Bloomfield Track, one of Australia’s most scenic 4WD routes. Stop at Wujal Wujal Falls, enjoy a drink at the historic Lions Den Hotel, and take part in a memorable Indigenous experience with Mooks. On arrival in Cooktown, visit the Botanical Gardens and take in the sweeping views and sunset from Grassy Hill Lookout before dinner.

• Accommodation: Ensuite Room – Milkwood Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5. Cooktown to Wolverton Station

Travel through Lakeland and visit Split Rock Aboriginal Rock Art, one of the most significant cultural sites in Cape York. Continue past Laura, Fairview Station, Hann River Roadhouse, Musgrave Station, and Coen before arriving at Wolverton Station—an authentic outback glamping retreat beside a peaceful lake, surrounded by native birdlife.

• Accommodation: Wildwishes (Glamping)
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 Day 6. Wolverton to Iron Range National Park

Head north along the Peninsula Development Road into Iron Range National Park. Cross the Wenlock and Pascoe Rivers, stop at Mount Tozer Lookout for sweeping views, and enjoy a short waterfall hike. Visit Lockhart River, the Historic Airstrip, and Quintell Beach before settling in for a wilderness experience at The Temple.

• Accommodation: The Temple
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 Day 7. Explore Iron Range National Park

Spend the day discovering the natural wonders of Iron Range National Park. Visit the pristine Chilli Beach and the historic outpost of Portland Roads, enjoy the Gordon Mine Creek Walk, and spot some of the park’s rare bird species. This evening, you may join an optional guided night walk to encounter the region’s unique nocturnal wildlife.

• Accommodation: The Temple
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8. Iron Range to Bramwell Station

Enjoy a relaxed morning of birdwatching or a refreshing waterfall walk before continuing north. Visit Morton Telegraph Station and cross the Wenlock River en route to Bramwell Station—an iconic Cape York stop known for hearty meals, friendly hospitality, and evening entertainment.

• Accommodation: Bramwell Station (Ensuite)
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 Day 9. Bramwell Station to Cape York Peninsula / The Tip

Continue your journey north, exploring sections of the historic Old Telegraph Track. Stop for a swim at Fruit Bat Falls and, if conditions allow, at Elliot Falls. Cross the Jardine River and visit the famous Croc Tent before reaching Australia’s northernmost point—The Tip. Enjoy the spectacular view and sunset from beautiful Punsand Bay.

• Accommodation: Punsand Bay (Ensuite)
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10. The Tip and Roko Island

Start the day with visits to Summerset, Fly Point, and the scenic Five Beaches Drive before reaching Roonga Point. From here, take a boat trip to Roko Island for a guided tour and island-style lunch. Enjoy an afternoon cocktail by the water or choose to join an optional half-day fishing charter.

Optional Experience: Half-Day Fishing Charter – Target coral trout, mackerel, and trevally with expert local guides. All gear and refreshments provided.

• Accommodation: Punsand Bay (Ensuite)
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11. The Tip/Roko Island to Thursday Island

Enjoy your morning and then get picked up by your private charter boat  after a short drive to Roonga Point. An epic boat trip through the islands of the Torres strait. Arriving on Thursday Island early afternoon, you will meet your local indigenous guide Mutee for a cultural tour, exploring the islands unique history and local way of life

• Accommodation: The Grand Hotel TI (Ensuite)
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12. Thursday Island to Cairns 

Enjoy breakfast before visiting the Torres Strait Cultural Centre to learn more about the region’s fascinating heritage. Later, take the ferry to Horn Island for your connecting flight back to Cairns. Take in your final views over the Torres Strait as your unforgettable Cape York adventure comes to an end.

• Accommodation: — (End of Tour)
• Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

• Fully guided tour. Experienced local and naturalist guides.
• Babinda Boulders. Natural swimming holes and rainforest scenery.
• Mount Bartle Frere. Panoramic views of Queensland’s highest peak.
• Paronella Park. Historic gardens and castle ruins.
• Milla Milla Falls & Curtain Fig Tree. Iconic Tablelands landmarks.
• Chillagoe Caves. Guided limestone cave tour.
• Daintree Crocodile Cruise. Spot crocodiles and tropical wildlife.
• Alexandra Range Lookout. Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef views.
• Marddja Boardwalk. Rainforest walk through mangroves and lowland forest.
• Bloomfield Track. Iconic 4WD adventure to Wujal Wujal.
• Wujal Wujal Falls. Stunning waterfall onto the Bloomfield River.
• Indigenous Cultural Experiences. Learn about Kuku Yalanji traditions and Torres Strait heritage.
• Grassy Hill Lookout. Sunset views over Endeavour River.
• Cape York Tip & Punsand Bay. Northernmost point of mainland Australia and stunning sunsets.
• Roko Island Boat Trip. Guided island tour with lunch.
• Thursday Island Cultural Tour. Explore the island with Indigenous guide Muttee.
• All National Parks & Fees. Entry permits included.
• Small or private touring group. Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles.
• Meals and snacks. As per itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cape York Tours - FAQ's

 

‍PREMIUM: Premium Tours are designed for those who want the entire Trip to the Tip to bean experience. We have cherry-picked the best accommodation options for our guests in each area to ensure you start and finish each day in comfort. Cape York is incredibly remote and undeveloped so true ‘luxury’ accommodation simply does not exist, however you will have air conditioning, your own ensuite, clean, comfy private accommodation to the best standard available.

Premium Tours are capped at a total of 10 passengers to ensure you have an immersive experience.

Our Premium tours are hosted in our Luxury Fleet, fresh off the showroom floor: our 79 Series LandCruiser, and 300 Series LandCruiser.

A Scenic Helicopter Flight over Pajinka “The Tip” is included for all Premium Tour guests. ‍

Group Sizes & Vehicle Allocation  

‍We have a strong focus on client experience, and as such our groups are small in size. We want to give you thebest, most immersive experience and that just cannot be delivered with large group touring. We have capped our numbers for this reason. The tour you have booked will determine the vehicle you are travelling in and your group size.

PREMIUM: 79 Series LandCruiser – 4 Passengers
PREMIUM: 300 Series LandCruiser – 6 Passengers
Premium tours operate with a maximum of 2 vehicles, and 10 passengers per departure.

Luggage Restrictions and Packing List for Cape York 4WD Tours

What are the luggage restrictions, and what should I pack for my Cape York 4WD tour?

Due to space limitations in our 4WD vehicles, we kindly request that you limit your luggage to a soft-sided bag or backpack weighing no more than 16 kg (35 lbs) plus a 3 kg (6 lbs) hand luggage. Please avoid using hard-sided suitcases. For your convenience, we have prepared a detailed packing list that includes all the essentials for your Cape York adventure. This list covers clothing, footwear, personal items, and any additional equipment you may need during the tour. To access this comprehensive guide, simply request our PDF. Remember that the key to a comfortable and enjoyable tour experience is packing light and choosing items that are versatile and suitable for the tropical climate of Cape York.

Age limits and physical fitness

Our tours have been designed to suit a reasonable standard of fitness – for instance the ability to walk on some uneven surfaces. There are occasions, such as at Wujal Wujal Waterfalls, where you can walk up to a distance of 400 meters. The walk to the Signpost at Pajinka “The Tip” is on uneven surface and approximately 10 minutes in duration.

The ability to cope with remoteness is essential.

We have no age limits on our Tours. We have had young families on tours, and clients in their 90s. When completing the Medical Waiver Form, it is the guests responsibility to ensure their health and physical fitness is of a reasonable level and they have disclosed any ailments that are of concern. We suggest you seek advise from your GP if you are unsure.

Mobility Challenges & Disabilities: Yes, we have had clients with extra considerations join our Tours and it brings us great joy to be able to make their dream a reality. Please speak with our Agents if you or a member of your group has mobility challenges, a disability or is wheelchair bound. We are able to make adjustments accordingly.

Rest assured, you are in great hands with our experienced guides and we make every effort to ensure your trip is an enjoyable and inclusive one.

I am a solo traveler – do I need to pay a single supplement?

Yes, as we do not offer shared or paired accommodation for single travelers. See our (single) rates.

Do I get a discount if I have travelled with you before?

‍Thank you for supporting our Family owned and operated local business. We’re so pleased you are back for another Escape! Please discuss your past travels with our friendly Agents for a discount to be applied. ‍

What accommodation is provided, and do I need to share with other members of the group?

Accommodation is as stated in your itinerary. Please note, there are instances where accommodation in your itinerary can change or be amended due to operational or supplier requirements. Under no circumstances will you be required on any tour to share accommodation with any other member of the group.

BOOKING

Pre and Post Travel arrangements

Our Team can assist you in organising your Pre and Post tour plans. Please call us to discuss.

‍
Insurance ‍

Far North Escapes 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 provider, and take out adequate travel insurance to cover events that may affect 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). We do not have any affiliation or personal recommendations regarding insurance – its important you do your own research and choose cover suited to your personal circumstances.

‍
Stand By Lists ‍

We do have a Stand By List should your preferred departure date be sold-outonline. Please contact us by your preferred contact method to request to beplaced on Stand By should a space become available, and we will be in contact.

‍Free Time on Tour

Yes, we balance our tours for the comfort and experience of our clients on tour. There are opportunities throughout your Itinerary where you will have time at Leisure – where you can book optional extra activities or just soak upyour surroundings. ‍

Luggage & What to Pack ‍

You will be provided with a suggested Packing List pertaining to your relevant booked Tour.
‍Luggage type is at your preference; however please note we do have a strict 15kg limitation per guest due to internal Flights.

OTHER ‍

‍How often will I need to cook? ‍

You’re on holiday! At no time during our tours will you be required to cook.
‍

Can I bring my pet? ‍

If you are on a Private Charter, yes, we can make arrangements for you to bring your pet. This is on a request basis and needs to be discussed prior to booking with one of our friendly Agents.
‍

Smoking ‍

As per government regulations, Smoking is not permitted inside our vehicles at any time. Ample stops on route can provide time for “Smoko” breaks. ‍
‍

Drinking in the Cape ‍

Many of our accommodation providers and dining experiences are licenced Venues throughout our Itinerary.
‍

Guaranteed Departures ‍

All of our Cape York Tours are Guaranteed departures when at least 3 guests are confirmed.
Our one day and multi-day tours are a minimum of 2 guests for a Guaranteed departure.
‍

Drones ‍

At the time of writing: for recreational purposes, you do not need a permit to use a drone in Queenslands National Parks as long as it weighs under 2kgs,there are less than 10 people involved in the shoot and no buildings or structures are being filmed. For up to date information consult the Queensland National Parks website, or use the “Can I fly there” app.
‍

‍Dietary Requirements

Yes, we cater to all Dietary requirements for our guests. Please ensure we have your considerations available to us upon booking.
‍

‍Water

‍Water is provided and available at all times to our guests. If you would like to bring your own reusable water bottle, you are encouraged to do so.
‍

‍Toilets ‍

We provide ample stops and consider our guests comfort. On remote stretches, we provide port-a-loos.
‍

‍Seating Arrangements

Our vehicles operate with a daily seat rotation system to ensure passengers enjoy a different perspective each day on tour.  ‍
‍

First Aid & Medical Emergencies

Your treatment will depend on the particular circumstances and your location. Our experienced crew members are first-aid trained, and our vehicles are equipped with a full First Aid kit. If you require medical evacuation in a remote location, the Royal Flying Doctor Service operate on a donation service. We will ensure you get the best treatment, and get you back on tour, or home, safely as soon as possible.

 

See all Cape York Tours.  | Read more about Cape Tours and guided 4WD tours to the Tip.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departs from Cairns 7.45am - Pick-up times are dependent on road conditions and traffic, and can vary.

Pickup Locations

• Cairns Northern Beaches
• Palm Cove
• Port Douglas

Destinations

• Cape York Peninsula
• Babinda Boulders
• Mount Bartle Frere
• Paronella Park
• Milla Milla Falls & Curtain Fig Tree
• Chillagoe Caves
• Daintree Crocodile Cruise
• Alexandra Range Lookout
• Marddja Boardwalk
• Bloomfield Track
• Wujal Wujal Falls
• Indigenous Cultural Experiences
• Grassy Hill Lookout
• Cape York Tip
• Roko Island Boat Trip
• Thursday Island Cultural Tour

Months of Operation

May - August

2026 Departure Dates: 11th & 31st May, 20th June, 12th July, 1st & 24th August 2026.

Duration

12 days / 11 nights

Fitness Level Required

Medium, Active

Additional Information

Passengers will be required to sign a Medical Waiver Form for each tour.

• Due to space limitations in our 4WD vehicles, we kindly request that you limit your luggage to a soft-sided bag or backpack weighing no more than 16 kg (35 lbs) plus a 3 kg (6 lbs) hand luggage. Please avoid using hard-sided suitcases.
• Please request our handy packing checklist

‍Children & minors under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. If required baby car seats can be provided at an extra charge. All minors that are under the age of 2-years old are free, but any extra charges accumulated throughout the tour will have to be covered by the responsible entity undertaking the booking.