Tour Highlights
- Explore Undara Lava Tubes and Cobbold Gorge on a four wheel drive tour of outback Queensland with departures from Cairns.
- This is an all inclusive four wheel drive tour with accommodation, meals and sightseeing in modern 4WD vehicles.
- Travel in small groups of no more than 12 like-minded guests and see the iconic Undara Lava tubes and Cobbold Gorge.
Description & Tour Inclusions
Included In Price
- ***This tour requires a minimum of 4 guests to operate or loading surcharge applies***
- Small group- offering unrivalled, friendly and personalised service
- Transfers – from and to your accommodation.
- Interpretation – friendly, knowledgeable guides explain our unique flora and fauna.
- Modern 4WD vehicle.
- Fresh, healthy meals (3 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners and snacks)
- Accommodation as stated in the itinerary.
- National Park and Site Fees.
- Attractions as stated in the itinerary.
Our Cairns outback explorer 4 day tour is a fantastic way to experience a memorable journey through the "Savannah” west of Cairns out to Cobbold Gorge and Undara Lava Tubes. This personalised tour is fully accommodated and you will travel in a group of no more than twelve.
Journey beyond the coastline and experience a side of Tropical North Queensland many travellers never see. This four-day Cairns to Cobbold Gorge and Undara tour takes you from the cool rainforest highlands of the Atherton Tablelands into vast savannah country, volcanic landscapes and remote outback towns rich in character.
Leaving Cairns, travel inland through the scenic Atherton Tablelands where fertile farmland, waterfalls and crater country create a striking contrast to the coast. Along the way, enjoy local produce experiences including tropical fruit tastings and discover why this region is known as one of Queensland’s food bowls.
As the landscape opens into the Gulf Savannah, the journey continues to one of Australia’s most fascinating geological sites, Undara Volcanic National Park. Here, ancient eruptions shaped an extraordinary underground world. Join expert guides on the Archway Explorer Tour and walk through sections of the famous Undara Lava Tubes, recognised as some of the longest lava tube systems on earth.
Continue deeper into the outback to Cobbold Gorge, one of Queensland’s most impressive hidden natural attractions. Spend two nights at Cobbold Gorge Village surrounded by rugged escarpments, wide open skies and peaceful bushland. Cruise through the narrow sandstone gorge where towering rock walls rise dramatically above calm waters, creating one of the most memorable experiences in the region.
You will also visit Talaroo Hot Springs, a rare and culturally significant natural thermal spring in remote Queensland, and travel through historic settlements that reflect the pioneering spirit of the outback.
With comfortable accommodation, guided touring, meals and seamless transport included, this Cairns outback tour is ideal for travellers wanting to combine nature, geology, wildlife and authentic country hospitality in one unforgettable itinerary.
2026 Departure Date
Departs : Thursdays from Cairns Starting 14 May through to 29 October 2026.
Features and Highlights
Cairns to Outback Queensland in One Seamless Journey
Travel from the tropical coast to the heart of Queensland’s inland frontier with all transport, accommodation and guided experiences arranged for you.
Explore the Atherton Tablelands
Discover elevated landscapes of rolling farmland, rainforest pockets and volcanic features as you journey west from Cairns.
Millstream Falls
Visit Australia’s widest single-drop waterfall and enjoy one of the Atherton Tablelands’ standout natural attractions.
Undara Lava Tubes National Park
See one of Australia’s most significant volcanic landscapes where lava flows created vast underground tunnels thousands of years ago.
Archway Explorer Lava Tube Tour
Join experienced local guides to learn how these natural formations were created while exploring the interior of the lava tubes.
Talaroo Hot Springs
Experience a rare outback thermal spring destination known for its striking mineral-rich waters and unique location in remote savannah country.
Spectacular Cobbold Gorge Cruise
Cruise through the narrow sandstone walls of Cobbold Gorge and witness one of Queensland’s most dramatic inland waterways.
Two Nights at Cobbold Gorge Village
Stay in a peaceful outback setting with easy access to the gorge and time to appreciate the region’s star-filled night skies.
Overnight Stay in Forsayth
Enjoy a true country town experience in this historic Gulf Savannah settlement.
Tropical Fruit Tasting
Sample fresh local produce from one of Tropical North Queensland’s premium growing regions.
Wildlife and Remote Landscapes
Keep watch for native birdlife, wallabies and ever-changing scenery as you travel through diverse ecosystems.
Ideal for Nature and Adventure Travellers
Perfect for visitors wanting to see waterfalls, volcanic wonders, thermal springs and remote gorge country beyond the usual tourist route.
Why not grab some friends, leave the driving to us and enjoy this wonderful outback expedition together?
Itinerary
Undara Lava Tubes & Cobbold Gorge Itinerary
Day 1: Rainforest Highlands, Tablelands & Undara Lava Tubes
Your four-day outback journey begins with hotel pick-up in Cairns from approximately 7:30am before travelling west into the highlands of Tropical North Queensland. Climb the scenic Gillies Range as the coastline gives way to cooler mountain air, rolling farmland and ancient volcanic landscapes.
The first stop is beautiful Lake Barrine, one of the region’s famous crater lakes. Enjoy the Tea House’s renowned scones while taking in peaceful lake views framed by lush World Heritage rainforest.
Continue across the fertile Atherton Tablelands, a region known for rich soils, dairy farms and diverse agriculture. Travel through Ravenshoe, recognised as Queensland’s highest town, before visiting nearby Millstream Falls, Australia’s widest single-drop waterfall.
From here the scenery shifts dramatically as you enter the drier outback landscapes of Forty Mile Scrub National Park and continue toward Undara Volcanic National Park.
This afternoon, join an expert guide for the Archway Explorer Tour through the remarkable Undara Lava Tubes. Formed more than 190,000 years ago, these enormous underground tunnels were created when the outer layer of a lava flow cooled and hardened while molten lava continued beneath the surface. The result is one of the world’s longest lava flow systems from a single volcano, stretching around 160 kilometres. Some of the lava tubes reach over 21 metres wide and 10 metres high, creating an extraordinary natural wonder hidden beneath the savannah.
After an unforgettable day of changing landscapes and geological discovery, continue to Forsayth for your overnight stay at Finnigan’s Rest.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Finnigan’s Rest, Forsayth
Day 2: Talaroo Hot Springs & Cobbold Gorge
Start the morning with breakfast before heading to the remote and culturally significant Talaroo Hot Springs. Here, join a guided experience led by an Ewamian Traditional Owner and gain insight into the deep cultural stories, geology and importance of this special landscape.
Enjoy time to relax in the naturally heated mineral waters, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Queensland’s savannah country.
Continue to the small outback township of Einasleigh, where lunch is enjoyed at the historic Einasleigh Hotel. There is also time to visit nearby Copperfield Gorge, known for its striking rock formations and seasonal water flows.
Travel onward through Forsayth, famous as the rail terminus for the iconic Savannahlander train, before arriving at Cobbold Gorge.
Check in for a two-night stay at Cobbold Gorge Village. As evening falls, relax beside the campfire beneath a star-filled outback sky and enjoy dinner at the licensed bar and bistro.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Cobbold Gorge Village, Ensuite Cabin
Day 3: Discover Cobbold Gorge
After breakfast, spend the day exploring one of outback Queensland’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Join a guided Cobbold Gorge cruise and glide quietly through narrow sandstone passages where towering rock walls rise above still waters. Your guide shares stories of the region’s Indigenous heritage, pioneering past and the working history of Robin Hood Station.
Keep watch for freshwater crocodiles, birdlife and native wildlife often seen around the gorge.
The afternoon is free to enjoy the facilities at Cobbold Gorge Village or choose from optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability. These may include scenic helicopter flights, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
Back at the village, relax by the swimming pool, explore walking trails or simply enjoy the peaceful outback setting.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Cobbold Gorge Village, Ensuite Cabin
Day 4: Cobbold Gorge to Cairns via the Tablelands
After breakfast, farewell Cobbold Gorge and begin the journey back toward Cairns along the Gulf Development Road.
Travel to Georgetown and visit the local information centre, where displays highlight the area’s gold rush and gemstone mining history. See the famous 858-gram Providence Nugget, one of the region’s notable discoveries.
Continue east through the Atherton Tablelands with time for selected sightseeing stops depending on conditions and timing. Possible visits may include Innot Hot Springs, The Crater, Herberton Historic Village, or Gallo Dairyland for locally made chocolate and cheese tastings.
Descend the Kuranda Range in the late afternoon and return to Cairns, arriving at your hotel at approximately 6:00pm.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Tour Details
Tour Languages Offered
English
EnglishDeparts From
Cairns
Departure Time
Departs 7:30am returns 6.00pm
Pickup Locations
Cairns Northern Beaches
Destinations
- Atherton Tablelands
- Mount Garnet
- Undara Lava Tubes
- Mount Surprise
- Copperfield Gorge
- Forsyth
- Cobbold Gorge
- Georgetown
Months of Operation
May - October
Days of Operation
Thursday
2026 Departure Dates: MAY26: 14 28, JUN26: 11 25, JUL26: 09 23, AUG26: 06 20, SEP26: 03 17, OCT26: 01 15 29
If you are interested in another departure date please call our team to discuss.
Duration
4 Day 3 Night
Fitness Level Required
Medium, Active
Additional Information
- 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. Departure and Return times are approximate.
- We endeavor to room guests with ensuite facilities where available.
- Please note this tour is not suitable for infants.
- Please note that Single Travelers must purchase the optional extra "single supplement" as we don't offer shared rooms with other single travelers.
- Please read our terms and conditions carefully.
What to Bring
- Camera
- Comfortable clothing and footwear
- Wallet
- Hat
- Water & Water Bottle
- Insect Repellent & Sunscreen 30+
- Luggage is restricted to ONE Soft Bag (no suitcases) weighing no more than 10kgs + ONE Small Backpack/Day Pack:
- PHOTO ID
- CLOTHING 3 to 4 changes (t-shirts and shorts)
- LIGHT JACKET & LONG PANTS
- 1 X PAIR OF SANDALS, 1 PAIR OF LIGHT WALKING SHOES
- 1 X PAIR OF BATHERS
- 1 X BEACH TOWEL
- TOILETRIES
- HAT, SUNGLASSES
- TORCH
- SMALL PERSONAL WATER BOTTLE
- SMALL DAYPACK
Child Policy
Please note this tour is not suitable for children under 4, unless on a private charter.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Operators policy:
SMOKING: As per Government Regulations, smoking is not permitted in vehicles. Ample stops provide time for "smoking breaks" en route.
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: Discovery Tours Australia 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 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).
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: Our 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 lack of tolerance or not of general good health should consult their GP before taking part on 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.
LUGGAGE: each passenger is entitled to take one bag (soft sided), 80cm x 30cm x 30cm. (no more than 10kgs as 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.
LIABILITY: The operator and its employees accept no responsibility for any booking, contract, travel, accommodation or group tours which 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.
CANCELLATION FEES:
Deposit Required: To secure your seats we require a 30% Deposit at time of booking, please note $600 pp is non-refundable. Completed passenger booking forms will be sent after booking and must be returned within 3 days.
Balance Due: 60 Days prior to day of departure.
Bookings cancelled more than 61 days prior to departure will incur a fee of $600 per person.
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 Less than 30 days prior to departure will incur a fee of 100% of the tour total.
In the unlikely event we are not able to operate a tour, due to weather conditions or unplanned operational events an alternate travel date will be offered, or a full refund processed.
ON ARRIVAL IN CAIRNS
On arrival in Cairns prior to your tour departure, please reconfirm your bookings and accommodation with the tour operator as per your voucher. Please note that pick-up times are to be confirmed ONE day prior to the tour departure.
Passengers are picked up and dropped back at accommodation in the Cairns area or en route. The operator, reserves the right to alter the itinerary and location of passenger accommodation, if necessitated by weather conditions or by any other unforeseen circumstances prevailing at the time of tour. The operator also has the right to substitute vehicles or an alternative operator, transport, and carrier. The tour operator can also charge at any a “fuel levy” if it there is a dramatic increase in the price of fuel - we would be very reluctant to impose such a charge and would only do so under extreme circumstances.
The operator is unable to guarantee exact arrival and departure times and cannot be held liable for failure to make connections with other services or for any expenses incurred by the client as a result of weather conditions, mechanical defects, or any other unforeseen cause. If for any reason, the itinerary is altered, no refund is payable by the operator. The operator reserves the right (without payment or compensation and whether before or after commencement of travel) to exclude any passenger if that passenger appears likely to endanger the health or safety of themselves or others or impair the comfort of other passengers; this includes any passenger who commits any illegal act.
The operator reserves the right to change or alter your tour itinerary and carriers to those advertised without prior notice due to weather, road or operational requirements and would do so with full consideration of your safety and comfort. No refunds are given in these circumstances.
The operator takes all care but holds no responsibility for loss, damage, injury or death incurred at any of its utilized accommodation providers and may change these providers without notice, making every effort to supply equal quality where possible.
The operator is not responsible for any loss, damage, injury or death caused to a passenger by another passenger.
Itineraries are correct at time of publication; however slight differences may occur as we endeavour to improve our tour throughout the year. No refund is given for altered Itineraries however, we do so with your tour satisfaction as our number one goal.
From
au$3,180.00
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Tour Code: 1051
Whatsapp
Facebook
Instagram