Tour Highlights
- Scenic Flight from Cairns to Horn Island – Begin your adventure with a breathtaking aerial journey over the Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait, offering unforgettable views of remote landscapes and turquoise island waters.
- Stand at the Tip of Australia – Capture the moment at the iconic northernmost point of the continent, with sweeping views over the Torres Strait and surrounding islands.
- Drive the Great Barrier Reef Route – Travel one of Australia's most scenic coastal roads, where rainforest meets reef along the stunning Great Barrier Reef Drive to Cairns.
Description & Tour Inclusions
Included In Price
- Scenic flight from Cairns to Horn Island on Day 1 - 1h50min
- Premium 4WD airconditioned vehicles
- Small group touring guarantee - 6 guests
- Unique accommodation
- Meals as shown on itinerary
- All national park fees & permits as per intineray
- Ferry from Horn Island to Thursday Island & Thursday Island to The Tip
Explore on a 5-day Cape York to Cairns 4WD tour. Visit the Tip of Australia, Thursday Island, Cooktown, and more. Includes scenic flight, expert guides, and off-road adventure through remote landscapes.
What to Expect
Begin your adventure with a scenic flight from Cairns to the remote northern frontier of Cape York. Upon arrival, meet your local Indiginous guide.
Travel in a premium 4WD vehicle built for comfort and performance across rugged terrain. Along the way, take in panoramic views and stop for a refreshing swim at the crystal-clear Fruit Bat Falls.
Your journey continues through the Aboriginal community of Wujal Wujal and its cascade before visiting the culturally rich town of Cooktown. Traverse the unique ecosystem of Lakefield National Parks, concluding your adventure with a drive through the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest.
This small-group Cape York 4WD tour delivers authentic outback experiences, cultural encounters, and diverse landscapes from remote islands to ancient rainforests.
Features and Highlights
- Cape York: Stand at the tip of mainland Australia and capture a moment at the iconic signpost in Cape York.
- Thursday Island: Explore Torres Strait culture with local Indigenous guides.
- Horn Island: Scenic flight landing and historical war sites add depth to your Torres Strait experience.
- Fruit Bat Falls: Swim in clear freshwater pools surrounded by rugged bushland.
- Wujal Wujal Falls: Learn about Aboriginal heritage and visit sacred sites with community insight.
- Cooktown: Visit the site where Captain Cook repaired the Endeavour and walk the streets of the historic port of Cooktown.
- Lakefield National Parks: Travel through contrasting landscapes rich in wildlife and geological features.
- Daintree Rainforest: Conclude your journey through ancient tropical rainforest, one of the world’s oldest living ecosystems.
- Fully Guided Small Group Cape York Tour: Travel in modern 4WD vehicles with expert guides offering in-depth knowledge, cultural context, and logistical ease.
See all Outback Australia 4WD tours and Cape York Tours.
Read about all the things you need to know before you go on The Tour Specialists Blog.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Thursday Island Arrival Day
Arrive at Horn Island at approximately 10:30 am and take the ferry across to Thursday Island. Be greeted by your local Indigenous guide, Muttee, for an insightful island tour exploring the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Torres Strait. Discover key landmarks, learn about the region’s unique heritage, and enjoy the relaxed tropical atmosphere before settling into your accommodation.
Accommodation: The Grand Hotel TI (Ensuite)
Meals: Lunch and Dinner included
Day 2 – Thursday Island – Weipa
Begin the day with an early morning ferry from Thursday Island back to Seisa before setting off on your final adventure through Cape York. Journey north for one last visit to the Tip of Australia, taking in the spectacular views before heading south. Stop at the Jardine River Crossing and enjoy a refreshing break at the beautiful Fruit Bat Falls. Continue through Bramwell Station before arriving in Weipa for a relaxing evening in this coastal outback town.
Accommodation: Weipa Motel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 3. Weipa – Fairview Station
Head along the Peninsula Development Road, stopping at Archer River and Musgrave Roadhouse. Continue through Lakefield National Park North and arrive at Fairview Station, a working cattle property offering true outback hospitality.
Accommodation: Fairview Station
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 4. Fairview Station – Daintree Rainforest
Depart Fairview Station and make your way toward Cooktown, a historic coastal town rich in charm and culture. Visit the famous Lions Den Hotel before continuing along the adventurous Bloomfield Track, one of Australia’s most scenic 4WD routes. Stop at Wujal Wujal Falls for a photo opportunity and to admire this sacred Indigenous site. Continue through Cape Tribulation and into the Daintree World Heritage Rainforest. As night falls, join a guided night walk to experience the unique sounds and wildlife of the rainforest after dark.
Accommodation: Ferntree Rainforest Lodge (Ensuite)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 5. Daintree Rainforest – Cairns
Enjoy your final morning in the Daintree Rainforest with visits to the Ice Cream Factory and Jindalba Boardwalk. Cross the Daintree River, stop at Mossman Gorge, and return to Cairns via the stunning Great Barrier Reef Drive.
Meals: Breakfast included
Itinerary Notes
Please note: All itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, unexpected circumstances or Tour Guides decision based on what is best for the group and preferences. This itinerary is ONLY a guide. Our itineraries are flexible, at Far North Escapes we modify our itineraries based on our guests needs and requirements. We believe in accommodating all our guest's needs and creating a remarkable Far North Queensland Adventure.
Packing List
Due to the warm, tropical climate of this region, guests should pack lightweight clothing which can be layered if necessary. Whilst we take care of most things for you, the below tips will ensure your Far North Escape is a seamless one:
- A Small Day pack to take on excursions for water, your photography equipment, or other supplies.
- Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes (old sneakers are fine!)
- Long sleeve shirt or rashie for sun protection
- Comfortable, pants or shorts
- Hat and Sunglasses
- Sunscreen & insect repellent – a supply is available however you may wish to bring your own. We recommend 50+ sunscreen that is non-toxic to marine life.
- Photography equipment
- Face mask if your itinerary includes a Domestic flight (Eg: Fifio Trip to the Tip/6-Day Safari)
- Prescription medication
- Personal hygiene items
Additional suggested items
- Journal & Pen
- Device chargers and storage cards
- Binoculars
Luggage:
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 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 the best, 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.
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) rate
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 Far North Escapes Agents are experienced in all aspects of Travel arrangements, and happy to 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-out online. Please contact us by your preferred contact method to request to be placed 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 up your 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.
Tour Details
Tour Languages Offered
English
EnglishDeparts From
Cairns
Departure Time
Departure time will be advised once your flight has been confirmed from Cairns to Horn Island
Destinations
- Cape York Peninsula
- Cooktown
- Daintree Rainforest
- Horn Island
- Thursday Island
- Jardine River
- Fruit Bat Falls
- Archer River
Months of Operation
May - September
Days of Operation
Wednesday - Friday
2026 Departure Dates
Friday, May 22, 2026 - Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Thursday, June 11, 2026 - Monday, June 15, 2026
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 - Sunday, July 5, 2026
Thursday, July 23, 2026 - Monday, July 27, 2026
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 - Sunday, August 16, 2026
Friday, September 4, 2026 - Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Duration
5 Day
Fitness Level Required
Medium, Active
Additional Information
Passengers will be required to sign a Medical Waiver Form for each tour.
What to Bring
- 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.
- Small day pack to take on excursions for water, camera etc
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Long sleeve shrit or rashie for sun protection
- Comfortable pants for cool evenings
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera (charged)
- Prescription medication & personal hygiene items
Child Policy
Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, Please note there is no child rate available.
Cancellation Policy
Our T&Cs
All cancellations must be in writing.
We understand things may change, so we have made cancellations very easy.
In every instance we always recommend you purchase travel insurance for life’s last-minute hiccups.
Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
Additional Tour Operators cancellation policy:
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel your booking with us, you must notify us in writing by email and pay a cancellation fee in the amount set out below.
If payment is not received by the due date notified, Far North Escapes reserves the right to cancel the booking.
Far North Escapes recommends Travel Insurance to help you in the event of unforeseen circumstances that may result in you being unable to travel in order to recover the operator’s cancellation policy penalties.
Night Walk Tours •0% cancellation fee 48 Hours or more prior to departure •100% cancellation fee 47 Hours or less prior to departure
One-Day Tours •25% cancellation fee 14 days or more prior to departure •25% cancellation fee 7-13 days prior to departure •100% cancellation fee 5 days prior to departure
Multi-Day Tours •25% cancellation fee 30 days or more prior to departure •50% cancellation fee 29 – 15 days prior to departure •100% cancellation fee 14 days prior to departure
Cape York & Tablelands Tours •25% cancellation fee 60 days or more prior to departure •50% cancellation fee 59 – 30 days prior to departure •100% cancellation fee 29 days prior to departure
Supplier Cancellation
a. Far North Escapes acts as an intermediary between passengers and various suppliers, such as hotels, airlines, transportation providers, and tour operators, to arrange and coordinate travel services.
b. While we make every effort to ensure the reliability and quality of our suppliers, there may be circumstances beyond our control that result in supplier cancellations, modifications, or changes to the agreed-upon services.
c. In the event of a supplier cancellation, Far North Escapes will make reasonable efforts to arrange suitable alternatives or substitutes for the affected services, depending on availability and feasibility.
d. Far North Escapes shall not be held liable for any costs, damages, or losses incurred by passengers as a result of supplier cancellations, modifications, or changes.
Deposit Policy
To confirm a multi-day tour booking, payment must be made at the time of making the reservation. A deposit time of booking by direct deposit or credit card will be 30% of the tour fare per person. Final balance due 60 days prior to travel.
Liabilities & Amendment Fees
If an event occurs that is outside of our control and not reasonably foreseeable or preventable by our business and this event leads to the suspension or cancellation of your tour booking, we will provide you with a credit voucher equal to the value of the monies paid for that booking. This voucher will be valid for a period of 24 months from your original tour departure date and can be used for any Far North Escapes travel experience. Amendment fees from any third parties who are supplying components of the booking (for example hotels or attractions) may apply.
Alternative Arrangements:
a. In the event of a supplier cancellation, Far North Escapes will work diligently to arrange suitable alternative arrangements, taking into account the original itinerary and preferences of the passengers.
b. Any additional costs associated with alternative arrangements, including but not limited to transportation, accommodations, meals, or activities, shall be the responsibility of the passengers.
Passenger Responsibility:
a. Passengers are responsible for understanding and acknowledging that supplier cancellations may occur due to reasons beyond Far North Escapes's control, including but not limited to weather conditions, strikes, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances.
b. Passengers are advised to review and comply with the terms and conditions set forth by individual suppliers regarding cancellations, refunds, and modifications.
c. Far North Escapes shall not be held liable for any costs, damages, or losses incurred by passengers as a result of supplier cancellations.
Dispute Resolution
Should any dispute arise between Far North Escapes and a Passenger, the parties agree that formal proceedings in a Court or Tribunal will not commence until after the following process has been followed:
• A party provides written notice specifying the nature of the dispute (“the notice”).
• The parties will in good faith attempt to resolve the dispute.
• If the dispute is not resolved within 7 days of receipt of the notice, the parties agree to refer the dispute to mediation administered by the Australian Disputes Centre and conducted in accordance with the ADC Guidelines for Commercial Mediation.
• If there is no resolution to the dispute at the expiration of 30 days from the receipt of the notice, formal proceedings may be commenced.
Authority to Remove or Refuse Participants
In the sole discretion of Far North Escapes or Tour Guide or, Far North Escapes may refuse may require you to leave the tour or disembark if it is reasonably believed that you
• are dangerous to others or to yourself;
• have engaged in, are engaged in, or are threatening to engage in behaviour that may adversely affect the safety, security, comfort, enjoyment, or well-being of other participants, suppliers (including Service Providers), The Far North Escapes Tour guides, including, but not limited to, behaviour that is disruptive, verbally abusive, physically abusive, obnoxious, harassing, discriminatory, or obscene;
• have failed or refused to follow, or are failing or refusing to follow Far North Escapes rules and procedures or the instructions of the Far North Escapes Tour guide.
In the event you are removed, you may be left at any city or place the vehicle stops at or calls without any liability to Far North Escapes or its representatives. Far North Escapes shall not be required to refund any portion of the fare paid by you if you are removed pursuant to this section. In the event you are removed, The Far North Escapes will not be responsible for expenses for lodging, medical care, meals, transportation, or any other expenses incurred by you. We shall be entitled to recover from you any costs or expenses incurred by Far North Escapes or its representatives, in your removal or the exercise or enforcement of this clause.
Pets
No pets are permitted on any tours, only service dogs may accompany tour guests.
Luggage Limits
Each Passenger is entitled to take one medium size suitcase or soft bag weighing no more than 15 kg. The sum of each case’s width, length and depth is not to exceed 150cm. Passengers may also take on board the coach one hand luggage item to be stored in the overhead luggage racks. The weight of hand luggage is not to exceed 3 kg per person.
Please note that Luggage limits are enforced on every tour. Passengers will be asked to leave their excess baggage behind in the event that the weight of the luggage exceeds our limits. The luggage is entirely at the passenger’s risk during the tour.
Overweight Luggage Charges:
a. Passengers are responsible for complying with the luggage weight restrictions set by the airline(s) or transportation provider(s) associated with their tour.
b. If a passenger's luggage exceeds the allowed weight limit, an overweight luggage charge will apply as specified by the airline(s) or transportation provider(s).
c. The overweight luggage charge will be communicated to the passenger prior to departure or at the time of check-in.d. The overweight luggage charge is the sole responsibility of the passenger and must be paid directly to the airline(s) or transportation provider(s) at the time of
Agent Bookings:
a. In the case of bookings made through travel agents or third-party agents, the overweight luggage charge will be billed directly to the agent.
b. The agent is responsible for communicating the overweight luggage charges to the passenger at the time of booking or prior to departure.
c. The agent will be invoiced for the overweight luggage charges by Far North Escapes and must settle the payment within the agreed-upon timeframe.
Passenger Responsibility:
a. Passengers are responsible for ensuring that their luggage meets the weight restrictions set by the airline(s) or transportation provider(s) for the duration of the tour.
b. It is the passenger's obligation to pack within the weight limits and to distribute the weight of their luggage accordingly.
c. Far North Escapes shall not be held liable for any overweight luggage charges incurred by passengers.
Flight Cancellation:
a. Far North Escapes utilizes flights as part of its tour itineraries. While we strive to provide a seamless travel experience, flight cancellations may occur due to factors beyond our control, such as weather conditions, airline schedule changes, or unforeseen circumstances.
b. In the event of a flight cancellation, Far North Escapes will make reasonable efforts to assist passengers in arranging alternative flights to continue their tour.
c. Far North Escapes is not liable for any costs associated with flight cancellations, including but not limited to expenses incurred due to missed connections, accommodations, meals, or transportation.
d. Passengers are responsible for any additional costs or expenses resulting from flight cancellations.
Travel Insurance
a. Far North Escapes strongly recommends that all passengers obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for flight cancellations, trip interruptions, and related expenses.
b. It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure that their travel insurance policy covers flight cancellations and provides adequate coverage for their specific needs.
c. In case of a flight cancellation, passengers should contact their travel insurance provider to initiate a claim for reimbursement of expenses.
d. Far North Escapes will assist passengers in providing necessary documentation for insurance claims, such as tour itineraries, flight details, and any other relevant information upon request. occurrence.
Passenger Responsibility
a. Passengers are responsible for reviewing and understanding the terms and conditions of their travel insurance policy.
b. It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure that their travel insurance coverage is valid and provides adequate protection for their specific travel requirements.
c. Far North Escapes shall not be held liable for any expenses or losses incurred by passengers as a result of flight cancellations or inadequate travel insurance coverage.
Agency Tour Bookings
Far North Escapes can act as an agent on behalf of tour operators (the Tour Operator) in the provision of some tour booking services (the Agent Tour Booking Service). Agency tours are ultimately fulfilled by the applicable Tour Operator according to their terms & conditions in addition to Far North Escapes standard terms & conditions. Should Far North Escapes' terms & conditions conflict with those of the Tour Operator, Far North Escapes' terms & conditions will apply. You acknowledge that any agency tour booking is separate from any other booking with Far North Escapes, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.
Different terms will apply to different tours and any other booked components. The applicable supplier will be described in the product description. If no Tour Operator is named, the tour booking will be delivered by Far North Escapes Far North Escapes standard terms & conditions will apply. The operation of the tour is entirely the responsibility of the Tour Operator and Far North Escapes will not be responsible for any loss resulting from the customer's booking of or participation in that tour. You acknowledge that, as agent, any payments made to Far North Escapes includes payments for the Tour Operator in return for the tour as well as for Far North Escapes for the provision of the Agent Tour Booking Service.
Breach of Terms & Conditions
You agree that, should you or your guests breach any of the terms and conditions: You will pay to us the total loss or damage that we suffer as a result of that breach and hereby authorise us to debit your credit card or apply your refundable deposit in payment of that loss or damage and we may evict you and your guests without notice.
PAYMENT OF DEPOSIT OR FULL PAYMENT CONSTITUTES ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The terms and conditions of booking are subject to change without notice.
From
au$4,950.00
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Child:
au$4,950.00
Family: au$19,800.00
Tour Code: 1221
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