• Discover the captivating world of Quinkan rock art, where ancient Aboriginal stories come to life on stunning sandstone canvases.
• Visit Roko Island, a hidden gem in the heart of the Pacific! Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant marine life, this idyllic destination offers pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. 
• Experience the stunning beauty of Fruitbat Falls, a tropical oasis nestled in the heart of Far North Queensland. With its crystal-clear waters cascading over lush greenery, this picturesque waterfall is perfect for swimming.
• Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the landscape at Bramwell Station, a unique outback experience in the heart of Cape York.
• Explore the rich history of the region by visiting significant sites from the gold rush era of the 1930s and the historic Iron Range airfield. 
• Visit Cooktown, a coastal town steeped in history and natural beauty, Explore the James Cook Museum, where you can delve into the region's rich maritime heritage and learn about the early days of exploration.

Each day of our 13-Day Cape York Safari is filled with unforgettable experiences, from wildlife encounters to breath taking views. This adventure offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation in one of Australia’s most iconic regions. Join us for an immersive bush experience!

What to Expect

This 13-Day Cape York Safari tour offers an unforgettable journey to some of the most remote and culturally rich regions of outback Australia. Travel in a 4WD with experienced tour guides as you traverse the rugged terrain, experience local history, and encounter extraordinary landscapes that have remained untouched for centuries. From ancient Aboriginal rock art sites and secluded beaches to historic towns and stunning ancient rainforests, this four-wheel drive tour immerses you in the diverse beauty and heritage of Cape York.

Each day unfolds a new adventure, whether you’re swimming in pristine waterfalls, exploring historic WWII sites, or standing at the tip of Australia in Cape York. With a perfect blend of thrilling exploration and moments of relaxation, this 4 wheel drive safari is ideal for travellers seeking a deeper connection to the landscapes and culture of Tropical North Queensland.

Features and Highlights

Quinkan Rock Art

• Marvel at ancient Aboriginal rock art at Quinkan, a UNESCO-listed site that ranks among the world’s top rock art locations. The paintings, which date back thousands of years, depict the stories and history of the land's first inhabitants of which are the oldest living culture in the world today.

Private Cattle Station Stay

• Spend a night on a private cattle station, gaining insight into life in the outback. Immerse yourself in the station’s unique setting, learning about cattle farming and experiencing the warmth of rural Australian hospitality from your hosts.

Fruit Bat Falls

• Relax at the picturesque Fruit Bat Falls, where you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush tropical greenery. This beautiful location offers an ideal spot to unwind amidst nature.

Roko Island in the Torres Strait

• Enjoy a visit to the breathtaking Roko Island, where you’ll experience vibrant marine life and stunning island views. This day offers an intimate connection with the natural beauty of the Torres Strait.

Iron Range National Park

• Journey through the Iron Range, known for its unique tropical lowland rainforest and rare wildlife, including palm cockatoos and green pythons. This region’s biodiversity makes it a paradise for nature lovers.

Cooktown and Grassy Hill Lookout

• Explore the historic town of Cooktown, where Captain Cook first set foot on Australian soil. Visit museums, stroll through botanical gardens, and take in panoramic views from Grassy Hill Lookout. Eat deliciously fresh caught seafood from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

WWII Heritage Sites

• Discover significant WWII sites on Thursday and Horn Islands, learning about their role in Australia’s defence. These islands offer a mix of historical insight and scenic beauty, with views over the turquoise waters of the Torres Strait.

The Old Telegraph Track

• Travel part of the historic Old Telegraph Track, a famous route for 4WD enthusiasts. This rugged track provides thrilling off-road experiences, with creek crossings and scenic landscapes along the way.

Lakefield National Park

• Traverse the expansive Lakefield National Park, known for its rich ecosystem of billabongs, river systems, and diverse wildlife. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find this park a highlight of the journey.

Pajinka (Tip of Australia)

• Stand at Pajinka, the northernmost point of mainland Australia in Cape York. This remote and scenic location offers incredible views where land meets sea, creating an unforgettable moment on your journey.

Historic Lions Den Hotel

• Stop at the iconic Lion’s Den Hotel, a charming pub that has served travellers for generations. Soak in its unique atmosphere and enjoy a refreshing drink in this historic setting.

Daintree National Park and Rainforest

• Wander through the ancient Daintree Rainforest on a private guided walk. Discover diverse flora and fauna in the world’s oldest rainforest, and marvel at its lush canopy and unique biodiversity.

Portland Roads and Chilli Beach

• Experience the natural beauty of Portland Roads and Chilli Beach, with pristine sands and tranquil waters perfect for relaxation and exploration. This remote location offers a peaceful escape.

Sample Itinerary Highlights

Day 1: Cairns to Quinkan Rock Art

• Begin your journey heading inland towards the Quinkan Rock Art sites at Laura, then spend the night at a private cattle station for an authentic outback experience.

Day 2: Moreton Telegraph Station

• Follow sections of the Old Telegraph Track, crossing through woodland country, and enjoy a lunch break by the Archer River before arriving at the historic Moreton Telegraph Station.

Day 3: Fruit Bat Falls and Seisia

• Explore the crystal-clear waters at Fruit Bat Falls, perfect for a swim and relaxation before continuing to Seisia.

Day 4: Roko Island

• Take a unique trip to the private Roko Island in the Torres Strait, enjoying lunch by the water and soaking up the stunning surroundings.

Day 5: Thursday and Horn Islands (Optional)

• Opt for an excursion to Thursday and Horn Islands, where you’ll discover WWII sites and the history of early pearling. Return to Seisia to end the day.

Day 6: Tip of Australia and Bramwell Station

• Visit the iconic "Tip of Australia" at Pajinka and enjoy some 4WD action before spending the night at Bramwell Station.

Day 7-8: Iron Range and Chilli Beach

• Head east into Iron Range National Park, exploring Chilli Beach and historic sites in the area. Spend two nights in unique bush-style accommodations, immersing in the natural beauty and history of the Iron Range.

Day 9-10: Coen, Lakefield National Park, and Cooktown

• Cross through Lakefield National Park, alive with wildlife, before arriving in Cooktown to explore its rich heritage, museums, and scenic surroundings.

Day 11-13: Daintree National Park to Cairns

• Continue south through the Daintree National Park, stopping for a wildlife cruise on the Daintree River and enjoying a scenic journey back to Cairns, completing your Cape York adventure.

This comprehensive 13-day safari through Cape York combines culture, nature, and adventure, creating a truly immersive experience in one of Australia’s most remarkable regions. Each stop offers a new discovery, and with knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll enjoy a safe and enriching journey through the heart of Tropical North Queensland.

See all Cape York 4WD tours from Cairns and other outback Australia experiences.  

Itinerary

DAY 1. CAIRNS – QUINKAN ROCK ART – PRIVATE CATTLE STATION
We start our journey by turning inland over the coastal range and onto the James Mulligan Highway before stopping at the Palmer River Roadhouse to stretch our legs and have lunch. History of the Palmer River Gold Fields that started in 1872. After lunch we journey to Quinkan Rock Art site at Laura. The Quinkan Rock Art sites are now listed by UNESCO as being amongst the top 10 Rock Art sites in the world. Experience a unique wildlife experience at our private overnight Cattle Station.
OVERNIGHT AT PRIVATE CATTLE STATION (D) *LUNCH WILL BE AT YOUR OWN COST AT PALMER RIVER.

DAY 2. PRIVATE CATTLE STATION – MORETON TELEGRAPH STATION
Today we follow parts of the original Old Telegraph Track - one of the highlights of Cape York and it is a great track for 4WD enthusiasts. We pass the memorial to “Toots”, a famous lady trucking character, have morning tea at Musgrave and stop at the beautiful Archer River for a sumptuous lunch before our river crossing. We traverse open woodland country; pass huge termite mounds before arrival at the historical Moreton Telegraph Station.
CAMPGROUND - MORETON STATION. (BLD)

DAY 3. MORETON STATION – FRUIT BAT FALLS – SEISIA
Another exciting day of 4WD Driving and creek crossings until we reach the Jardine River, named after pioneering explorers to the area Frank and Alexander Jardine. “The Jardine” is the largest river on the Cape York Peninsula and renowned for crocodiles. Later we stop for lunch and a swim in the crystal-clear water at Fruit Bat Falls.
CAMPGROUND - SEISIA. (BLD)

DAY 4. SEISIA – ROKO PRIVATE ISLAND
Today we visit a very special family who live on a stunning beautiful private island located in the Torres Strait. Lunch today under the palm trees overlooking the beautiful blue waters - such a wonderful day!
CAMPGROUND - SEISIA. (BLD)

DAY 5. SEISIA – ISLANDS TOUR - THURSDAY and HORN ISLAND

Option 1:  Free Day at the camp Seisia – lunch not included

Take a break from touring and enjoy a leisurely day at the campsite. Catch up on laundry, relax, or dive into a good book—the choice is yours! Spend the day at your own pace, whether you want to unwind or explore.

Option 2:  Two Islands Tour including lunch and transfers
Must be pre-booked and pre-paid: $415 per person

Embark on an enriching journey to Thursday and Horn Islands, where you'll explore their significant historical roles during the war and their contributions to Australia's safety. Learn about the early pearling luggers while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Torres Straits and its turquoise waters.

Inclusions:

Return ferry from Seisia to Thursday Island
Small group tour of Thursday Island
Entry to Green Hill Fort and its underground collection
Return ferry from Thursday Island to Horn Island
Small group "In Their Steps" WWII tour on Horn Island
Entry to the Torres Strait Heritage Museum
Horn Island transfers
Lunch included

Join us for a memorable day of history, culture, and stunning landscapes!

CAMPGROUND - SEISIA. (BD) NB: Lunch at own expense if free day option chosen

DAY 6. THE TIP – BRAMWELL STATION
This morning, we visit the Famous Croc Tent and walk to the TIP. We will travel through the drier savannah woodlands which will change into dense rainforest before opening up at the deserted beaches at Australian's most northern point. Also, today we enjoy some 4WD action, road conditions and weather permitting, arriving at Bramwell Station - Australia's most northern cattle station. A lovely dinner has been prepared for your enjoyment by Bramwell Station (at own expense)
CAMPGROUND - BRAMWELL STATION. DINNER TONIGHT AT OWN EXPENSE (BL)

DAY 7. BRAMWELL STATION – IRON RANGE (UNIQUE BUSH STYLE ACCOMODATION)
This morning, we move East through cattle country. We travel through the largest area of tropical lowland rainforest remaining in Australia, crossing rivers before entering Iron Range National Park via Tozers Gap. This place is truly wonderful with rare fauna and flora, looking for the famous Palm Cockatoos, Eclectus parrots & Green Pythons.
ACCOMMODATION – IRON RANGE- UNIQUE BUSH STYLE CABINS, DINNER AT OWN EXPENSE (BL)

DAY 8. IRON RANGE – CHILLI BEACH – PORTLAND ROADS
Today your Guide will take you on a day of adventures where you will travel to Chilli Beach which is truly stunning with its wonderful ocean and landscapes. We also visit significant historical sites in the area from the gold times of the 1930's and the Airfield at Iron Range. On about 18th April 1942 Walter Maierersperger, the Commanding Officer of 33 Bomb Squadron of the 22nd Bomb Group USAAC carried out an aerial reconnaissance flight over the Iron Range area. Lunch today will be at the famous Portland Roads Locals Cafe (at own expense), overlooking the sea with wonderful home cooked food including fresh fish on the menu. Then after lunch we return back to your accommodation for some free time.
RETURN TO ACCOMMODATION – IRON RANGE - UNIQUE BUSH STYLE ACCOMMODATION BREAKFAST/LUNCH/DINNER AT YOUR OWN EXPENSE

DAY 9. IRON RANGE– COEN – KALPOWAR (LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK)
Our day starts early today, as we travel to Coen where you can visit the Coen Historical Museum and will be treated to lunch on the banks of the Coen River. After lunch we travel through Lakefield National Park on the same tracks as the mounted mail men did. This National Park is filled with Billabongs and river systems alive with wildlife. Stay tonight at the Kalpowar crossing located in Lakefield National Park.
CAMPGROUND - KALPOWAR BUSH CAMP (LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK) (LD)
BREAKFAST AT YOUR OWN EXPENSE

DAY 10. KALPOWAR – COOKTOWN
As we will now have more time to enjoy Cooktown, we will add the beautiful Isabella Falls for a swim and lunch. On arrival in Cooktown, we will check into our accommodation before having dinner at the one of the local restaurants of your choice (at own expense).
ACCOMMODATION IN COOKTOWN. (BL)

DAY 11. COOKTOWN SURROUNDS & BEACHES
Our added day in Cooktown affords us a fantastic opportunity to explore a town pivotal to Australian history. Breakfast today will be at the Sovereign Resort which is included, before we begin our day at the James Cook Museum, learning the fascinating history of the area. Following this our passengers will enjoy free time explore the main street followed by lunch at the Cooktown’s Gardens Cafe (at own expense). We will walk around Keatings Lagoon, a wetland rich with birdlife. Before dinner we will take in the sunset over the Endeavour River at the Grassy Hill Lookout. Dinner this evening will be your choice of the many cafes located nearby (at own expense - LD).
ACCOMMODATION IN ROOMS COOKTOWN. (B)

DAY 12. COOKTOWN - DAINTREE NATIONAL PARK
After an early breakfast at any of the local cafes you may find (B) at own expense), our departure from Cooktown will see us travelling south, visiting Black Mountain, Lion’s Den Hotel, (Bloomfield Falls subject to National Parks) arriving in Daintree (via the Bloomfield Track subject to road conditions). Accommodation and our Dinner (own Cost) tonight is deep in the beautiful Daintree Rainforest overlooking Coopers Creek.
ACCOMMODATION DEEP IN THE DAINTREE RAINFOREST (L)

DAY 13. DAINTREE - CAIRNS
Interpretative Daintree rainforest walk. Enjoy the Daintree Ice creamery (at own expense). Visit the beautiful Alexander Range lookout on our way to Cairns. Then we cross the Daintree Ferry to board our wild life cruise on the Daintree River. Light lunch at Mossman before we continue onto Cairns which brings us to the end of your Cape York tour.
ICE-CREAM TODAY AT YOUR OWN EXPENSE - (L)
WILD LIFE CRUISE – ON THE DAINTREE RIVER – (is at your own cost)

***All Pick Up Transfers within the CBD area before and after your Cape York Tour - are included. Any transfers outside of the CBD is at an additional cost upon booking***

13 Day Cape York 4WD Safari Tour Highlights

• Quinkan Rock Art
• Roko Island
• Private Cattle Station Stay
• Daintree Croc Cruise
• Iron Range
• The historic Lions Den Hotel
• Black Mountain
• Cooktown
• WWII sites
• Morton Telegraph Station
• Fruit Bat Falls
• Old Telegraph Track (Part thereof)
• World Heritage Daintree National Park
• Portland Roads - Chilli Beach
• Lakefield National Park
• Jardine River – Torres Strait
• Seisia / Thursday Island / Horn Island
• Private guided walk through the oldest rainforest in the World
• Pajinka (local Aboriginal name for the Tip of Australia)•
• 1 nights’ Accommodation in Daintree
• 2 nights’ Unique Bush Style Accommodation – Cooks Hut (not tents)
• 2 nights’ Accommodation (not tents) in Cooktown

What to Bring

• 1 soft bag per person
• Photo ID
• 3 or 4 changes of clothes (There is plenty of opportunity to wash your clothes)
• 1 light jacket
• 1 pair bathers
• Toiletries
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Torch
• Insect repellent
• Sunblock
• Camera
• Charger/spare batteries
• Water bottle
• Small daypack
• 1 pair rubber soled shoes or joggers
• Jeans

2025 Departure Dates

Tour 1:  12th May to 24th May

Tour 2:  2nd June to 14th June

Tour 3:  23rd June to 5th July

Tour 4:  14th July to 26th July

Tour 5:  4th August to 16th August

Tour 6:  25th August to 6th September

Tour 7:  15th September to 27th September

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

7.00am

Pickup Locations

• Cairns
• Cairns Northern Beaches
• Palm Cove

Destinations

• Cape York Peninsula
• Daintree Rainforest
• Outback Queensland Australia
• Quinkan Rock Art
• Private Cattle Station
• Moreton Telegraph Station
• Fruit Bat Falls
• Seisia
• Roko Private Island
• Thursday & Horn Islands (optional extra)
• Bramwell Station
• Iron Range National Park
• Chilli Beach
• Portland Roads
• Coen
• Kalpowar (Lakefield National Park)
• Cooktown
• Daintree National Park

Months of Operation

May - September

Days of Operation

Monday

This tour departs on set dates - please refer to schedule

Duration

13 Day

Available for Purchase / Hire

Museums Two Island Tour, Tours in Cooktown, Daintree Croc Cruise, some meals as per itinerary (BLD).

Fitness Level Required

Medium

Restrictions

Minimum 3 guests required to confirm a departure

Additional Information

• As this tour is accessing remote areas, the tour itinerary may change due to weather and road conditions and this is the decision of the Operator
• We strongly recommend all intending passengers have their own travel insurance
• The area visited has very strict alcohol regulations however the tour operator has a permit to carry certain quantities of alcohol, please note this permit does not include spirits. DO NOT BRING ALCOHOL ON TOUR. An Honesty Tin is ran for the purchase of alcohol (beer & wine) as well as soft drinks with any surplus being donated to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
• Each vehicle has been custom made to suit the all terrain.

• Storage is limited. Please pack One small soft carry bag, or overnight bag no bigger than 605mm x 505mm x 380mm (24 x 20 x 15) which should not exceed 10 kilograms as space is limited. One piece of hand luggage is advisable for everyday use.
• Whilst on the road the above bag will be stowed on the roof rack. A small soft bag can fit under your seat
• Most accommodation providers in Cains will store your excess luggage