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Far North Escapes
Embark on a truly unforgettable journey with our 5-day Cape York to Cairns 4WD tour! Get ready to be transported to the wild and rugged beauty of Australia's remote northern wilderness and experience the thrill of the ultimate adventure. You'll be traveling in style in one of our comfortable and modern 4WD vehicles, designed for maximum comfort on the challenging terrains of northern Australia. Each day of the tour is designed to take you to some of the most spectacular and bucket-list-worthy destinations in Australia, from the iconic signpost at the tip of Cape York to the historic Cooktown, the birthplace of modern Australia. And with small, private charter groups, you'll have the unique opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the rich history, wildlife, and culture of this magnificent region. Your journey will start with a flight from Cairns to Cape York, where you'll embark on a Thursday Island Scenic Tour and explore the island's rich history through storytelling from local guides. You'll also visit Green Hill Fort Lookout, the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial, and the iconic signpost at the tip of Australia Cape York. Next, you'll relax and take in the stunning views of the Arafura Sea, Torres Strait Islands, and the northern tip of Australia at Cape York Camping Punsand Bay, your accommodation for the night. You'll be wowed by the rugged beauty of Fruit Bat Falls, the Old Telegraph Track, and Jardine River ferry, where you'll end the day with a stay at the historic Moreton Telegraph Station. On the third day, you'll be taken to Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park, known for its rich wildlife and Australia's largest remaining lowland rainforest. With an opportunity to get up close with unique animals like cuscus, green tree pythons, and a variety of other amazing species, you'll be awed by the beauty of this wild and remote destination. The tour will also take you to the scenic Bloomfield Falls and Wujal Wujal village, where you'll immerse yourself in the local culture and history. And with two more days of breathtaking scenery and challenging 4WD tracks ahead, you'll continue your journey through Cape York, stopping at Lakefield National Park and Black Mountain National Park. Each step of the way, you'll be accompanied by an expert guide, ensuring that you have a safe and truly unforgettable experience. So what are you waiting for? Book now and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime on this adventurous and stylish tour through the heart of northern Australia!
The first day of the Cape York Tip of Australia 4WD tour begins with a flight from Cairns to Cape York, where you will be transported to the tip of Australia. The day's activities include a ferry ride from Horn Island to Thursday Island, where you will embark on a Thursday Island Scenic Tour. This award-winning tour brings the island's history to life, with the help of indigenous guides who share their passion for the island through storytelling. you will visit the Green Hill Fort Lookout, where they can take in panoramic views of the island and learn about its maritime, pearling and military history at the on-site museum. The tour also includes a visit to the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial at the T.I. cemetery, where you will learn about the impact of the pearling industry in Torres Strait. Another important stop is the monument commemorating Bernard Namok Senior, the designer of the Torres Strait Island Flag. The tour's comprehensive commentary will also include important aspects of the maritime, cultural, and military history that has shaped the region. Now it's time to leave Thursday Island and travel on the Ferry to mainland Australia. From there you will finally arrive at the iconic signpost at the tip of Australia's Cape York. Where you can spend some time on the beautiful Frangipani Beach. For accommodation, you will be staying in Bamaga. This unique location offers the ultimate base for any Cape York adventurer, with a range of accommodation and camping options that are ideal for couples, families, and groups. You can relax and unwind while taking in the beautiful views of the golden sand beach and turquoise waters of the Arafura Sea, Torres Strait Islands, and the northern tip of Australia. The on-site restaurant and bar also offer a great spot to enjoy a meal and a drink while overlooking the stunning surroundings.
Accommodation: Cabin, located at the Tip of Australia, at Cape York.
Meals: Lunch at Thursday Island, and Dinner Cape York.
The second day of the Cape York Tip of Australia 4WD tour starts with you traveling from Bamaga to Moreton Telegraph station. We travel south, crossing the Jardine River. The Jardine River, formally known as Deception River, is the largest river of the Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland, Australia. The traditional owners of the area are the Unjadi and Ankamuti peoples, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The Jardine River Ferry is possibly the most expensive ferry journey on earth, as it covers a distance of less than 100 meters from bank to bank. Then we follow the Peninsula Development Road and onto the Old Telegraph track, where you will be visiting Eliot Falls and Fruit Bat Falls. Fruit Bat Falls is a broad, natural weir that is croc-free and is a great place to refresh and wash off. Eliot Falls has plenty of shady picnic tables, making it the ideal place for a pit stop. Fruit Bat Falls is known as one of the most bucket list-worthy waterfalls to visit in all of Australia and one of the best places to swim along the Old Telegraph Track. Camping is permitted at Eliot Falls and along the Jardine River. The Old Telegraph Track was the original path for the Overland Telegraph Line and was the only means of communication for those living on Cape York. It used to be the only route to the Tip of Australia until the northern and southern bypass roads opened in 1986. Now, it is a must-do 4-wheel drive track that has northern and southern sections. For accommodation, guests will be staying at Moreton Telegraph Station Cape York. This unique location offers a glimpse into the history of Cape York Peninsula, as it was once an important communication hub for the Overland Telegraph Line. The station has been beautifully restored and offers a range of accommodation options that are ideal for couples, families, and groups. Guests can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and take in the rich history of the area. In summary, Day 2 of the Cape York Tip of Australia 4WD tour offers guests the opportunity to cross the Jardine River ferry, refresh and relax at Fruit Bat Falls, explore the iconic Old Telegraph Track. The day ends with guests staying at Moreton Telegraph Station, a piece of Cape York European history that offers comfortable accommodation and a chance to learn about Cape Yorks past.
Accommodation: Cabin, Moreton Telegraph Station. Located at the Cape York Peninsula.
Meals: Breakfast at, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.
The third day of the Cape York Tip of Australia 4WD tour, you will start the day, departing Moreton Telegraph Station, Begin your journey early in the morning, fully equipped with all the necessary gear and provisions for a long day on the road. The first leg of the journey takes you through the rugged and challenging terrain of the outback, where you'll encounter rocky hills, shrubbery, and the occasional wildlife like kangaroos and emus. Take your time and savor the unique beauty of this landscape as you head south crossing the infamous Archer River towards Coen. As you reach the small town of Coen around midday, take a quick break to rest and refuel. Coen is a great place to grab a quick snack or drink, and to catch up on any messages or emails with a Telstra connection. As you continue your journey south, take your time to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the desert terrain, which make the journey all the more rewarding. The roads will get rougher as you make your way through the challenging terrain, but don't let that deter you from the adventure! As the sun starts to set, you'll reach the final stretch of your journey from Moreton Telegraph Station to Musgrave River Roadhouse. Musgrave River Telegraph Station is a historic site located near Musgrave River Roadhouse, in the remote outback region of Northern Australia. The site was originally established in 1887 as a telegraph station, which served as a vital communication link between the northern and southern regions of the country. The station played a significant role in the development of Northern Australia, facilitating the growth of industries such as mining and agriculture. Today, the Musgrave River Telegraph Station serves as a historical landmark, showcasing the pioneering spirit and resilience of the early settlers who braved the harsh conditions of the Australian outback.
Accommodation: Cabin, Musgrave Telegraph Station. Located at Musgrave.
Meals: Breakfast at Moreton Telegraph Station, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.
The fourth day of the Cape York Tip of Australia 4WD tour, you will start the day with a visit to the unique and ancient Laura rock art galleries. These galleries have hosted artists over hundreds of generations and provide historical evidence that Aboriginal people have lived in the Laura region for many thousands of years. The tour will provide guests with an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Kuku-Yalanji people and to witness the link between people, community and country. The Laura rock art is included on the Australian Heritage Estate, inscribed on the National Heritage list and listed by UNESCO as being among the top 10 rock art sites in the world. From here we continue south-easterly towards Cooktown. You will spend the night in the Daintree National Park.
Accommodation: Ferntree Rainforest Lodge, Cape Tribulation.
Meals: Breakfast at Musgrave River Roadhouse, Lunch will be catered for by Far North Escapes and Dinner at The Cassowary Restaurant, Cape Tribulation.
Cooktown and Cairns are two iconic destinations in Far North Queensland, Australia that offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers. This last day of the Cape York tour from Cooktown to Cairns will take you on a journey through the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of the region. First, you'll visit Cooktown, a historic town located at the mouth of the Endeavour River, famous for its connection to the famous explorer, James Cook. You'll have the opportunity to visit the James Cook Museum and learn about Cooktown's rich cultural heritage and its connection to James Cook. After your visit to the museum, you'll head to the Lions Den Hotel for lunch. This iconic hotel has been serving visitors and locals since 1886 and is renowned for its country-style meals and relaxed atmosphere. Next, you'll embark on a scenic drive along the Bloomfield track, one of the most picturesque routes in Far North Queensland. The drive takes you through a diverse landscape, from the rugged coastline to the lush rainforest, giving you a taste of the natural beauty of the region. The highlight of the tour is the Wujal Wujal Walker Indigenous tour, where you'll have the chance to learn about the local culture and history of the region. Your guide, a member of the Wujal Wujal community, will take you on a journey through the rainforest and share stories and knowledge about their culture, customs, and way of life. The tour also includes a visit to Wujal Wujal Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation that is sacred to the local indigenous community. After the Wujal Wujal Walker Indigenous tour, you'll head to the Daintree rainforest, one of the world's most renowned and unique rainforests. The Daintree is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including many species that are found nowhere else on earth. You'll have the chance to see some of the most magnificent trees, exotic birds, and other wildlife that call this forest home. Finally, you'll return to Cairns via the Great Barrier Reef Drive, a scenic route that takes you along one of the most breathtaking routes in the world, with stunning views of the coral reefs and turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef. The drive is a fitting end to a tour that has showcased the incredible beauty and diversity of Far North Queensland. In conclusion, this tour from Cooktown to Cairns is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of Far North Queensland. From the historic James Cook Museum in Cooktown to the lush Daintree rainforest and Wujal Wujal Falls, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on all those who take it." Concluding out 5 day Cape York tour, we will say our goodbyes and drop you off at your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast at The Cassowary Restaurant, Cape Tribulation, Lunch catered for by Far North Escapes.
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.
Alexandra Range. View the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef from above.
Daintree ferry. Cross the Daintree River to the magical Daintree Rainforest.
Daintree Rainforest. Ancient Rainforest on Earth.
Bloomfield Track. Treacherous track to Wujal Wujal.
Wujal Wujal Waterfalls. Cascading waterfall onto the Bloomfield River.
Guided Indigenous tour. Through the Daintree Rainforest.
Emmagen Creek Crossing. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles.
Fig Tree. Gigantic 500-year-old fig tree.
Cooktown. Explore the historic village where the first settlers arrived.
Grassy Hill. Enjoy amazing views and sunset over the Endeavour River.
Black Mountain. A landscape of mysterious mass of granite boulders.
Split Rock. See the famous rockart galleries in Quinkan Country.
Iron Range. National Park.
Wenlock River. Cross the infamous Wenlock River Crossing.
Gunshot Track. Cape York’s famous Creek Crossing.
Elliot Falls & Fruit Bat Falls. Swim at the Iconic Cape York Waterfall along the Old Telegraph Track.
Tip of Cape York. Take your picture next to the iconic signpost.
Somerset. Government Outpost and Cattle Station, filled with historical interests'
Thursday Island. Indigenous culture, military and history
Horn Island. A guided tour around the prominent WWII historical sites.
Fully guided tour for the whole trip. By experienced naturalist guides.
Secluded Beaches and Swimming Holes. Experience the hidden gems of the north.
All national parks. Including fees and permits.
Small or private touring group. Comfortable and airconditioned vehicle.
Flights. From Horn Island to Cairns.
All Attractions. Including all national park fees and permits as per itinerary.
Unique Accommodation. Immersed within the Daintree Rainforest.
Meals and snacks. As per itinerary.
PICK UP & RETRUN
Friday, 19 May 2023 - Wednesday, 24 May 2023
Friday, 2 June 2023 - Wednesday, 7 June 2023
Wednesday, 5 July 2023 - Monday, 10 July 2023
Monday, 7 August 2023 - Saturday, 12 August 2023
Friday, 25 August 2023 - Wednesday, 30 August 2023
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 - Sunday, 17 September 2023
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 - Sunday, 25 June 2023
Wednesday, 9 August 2023 - Monday, 14 August 2023
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 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.
SAFARI: Our Safari Clients will be travelling in a FUSO Canter 4x4 Truck, as opposed to LandCruisers. Safari departures operate in conjunction with our Tag-a-long tours, so whilst there are only 6 passengers in your Fuso Canter 4x4Truck, you will have a small convoy of up to 5 additional (client owned) vehicles travelling as a part of your group.
Safari accommodation is basic, clean, comfy and well appointed – however it is basic. This is reflected in your total trip cost. Safaris are designed for those who are on tour for the experience and adventure and don’t mind compromising on creature-comforts along the way to get the most bang for their buck.
The Scenic Heli Flight over Pajinka “The Tip” is not included on Safari Tours, however can be added on as an optional extra.
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.
SAFARI: Fuso Canter 4x4 Truck – 6 Passengers
Although Safari Tours only have 6 passengers in the vehicle, these tours operate alongside our “Tag-a-long Tours”, which can a convoy of up to 5additional (client owned) vehicles travelling as a group.
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.
Yes, as we do not offer shared or paired accommodation for single travelers. See our (single) rates
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
You’re on holiday! At no time during our tours will you be required to cook.
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.
As per government regulations, Smoking is not permitted inside our vehicles at any time. Ample stops on route can provide time for “Smoko” breaks.
Many of our accommodation providers and dining experiences are licenced Venues throughout our Itinerary.
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.
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.
Yes, we cater to all Dietary requirements for our guests. Please ensure we have your considerations available to us upon booking.
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.
We provide ample stops and consider our guests comfort. On remote stretches, we provide port-a-loos.
Our vehicles operate with a daily seat rotation system to ensure passengers enjoy a different perspective each day on tour.
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.
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