12 Day 4WD Cape York Tour - Safari

12 Day Safari Cape York Tour

Journey to the Tip of Australia

Experience an adventure of a lifetime and explore Far North Queensland, from Cairns to Cape York, on the 12-day Safari Tour! Venture to Pajinka the Tip of Australia Safari-Style, go off the beaten path, and enjoy unique small group experiences. Make new friends preparing group meals, and get the best value in budget accommodation. Its all about the journey on the Cape York Safari. Read more to see what sets Far North Escapes apart in The Cape.

Highlights

  • Tip of Australia
    • Cape York
    • Unique Accommodation
  • Old Telegraph Track
    • Off-Road Luxury 4WD
    • Lakefield National Park
  • Indigenous Experiences
    • Iron Range National Park
    • Daintree Rainforest

Day 1. Cairns to Crater Lakes National Park

Your adventure begins with pick up from your accommodation in our Safari 4x4 Fuso Canter truck. You’ll have a bird’s eye view and an authentic experience in our Fuso, which has a 6-seater capacity. As we head out of Cairns, you will have a spectacular view over the sugar can fields, with a stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountain ranges. Along the drive, you’ll pass Queensland’s highest peak: the iconic towering Mount Bartle Frere. You will spend the morning exploring the “#1 Must Do Attraction in Queensland”, the beautiful, Paronella Park. Built in 1937 by Jose Paronella, it is both a living love story, and a feat of engineering. This is a wonderful photo opportunity and a truly unique experience. Following your tour of Paronella, we make our way through the Atherton Tablelands and stop off for lunch at Mungalli Creek Dairy Farm. Here you will taste some of the best local biodynamic cheeses FNQ has to offer and enjoy the spectacular rolling hill scenery of the Tablelands.  

Our afternoon will be spent visiting magnificent Falls that cascade perfectly into a pristine waterhole surrounded by lush Rainforest, it is one of the most photographed Waterfalls in all Australia - Millaa Millaa. You will check into your accommodation for the evening, freshen up, and attend your “Welcome Dinner” at “Our Place” a popular restaurant in scenic Yungaburra. After dinner, wind down from your first exciting day adventuring on the road at Big 4 Atherton Tablelands Holiday Park.

Accommodation: Ensuite Cottage, Big 4 Atherton Tablelands Holiday Park, on the Atherton Tablelands.
Meals: Lunch at Mungalli Creek Dairy Farm, and Group “Welcome” Dinner at ”Our Place” in Yungaburra

Day 2. Crater Lakes National Park to Chillagoe

We are off to Chillagoe! It’s an early start as we travel through the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands and the iconic “Wheelbarrow Way” stretching from Mareeba to Chillagoe, travelling through farmland,  cattle country, wooded savannah and historic towns. Our morning starts with a National Parks Ranger Guided Chillagoe Cave Tour. Delight in the spectacular caverns and passages decorated by stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Their formation began over 400 million years ago, with fluctuating groundwater slowly dissolving and sculpting the caves. Chillagoe was once an ancient Coral Reef which has been transformed into spectacular limestone bluffs with a network of some 560 caves, while early volcanic activity as created rich marble and mineral deposits. Wander the town to see the Railway Station, Bank Vault, Court House, Police Museum, and Post Office. The tall chimney on the edge of the town is part of the former Ore Smelter. Nearby short walking tracks include Balancing Rock and two Aboriginal Rock Art Galleries.

After a day of exploring this historic mining town, we make our way back via the rustic Herberton-Petford 4WD track  – a truly unique off the beaten path experience full of wildlife in The Tablelands.  

Accommodation: Ensuite Cottage, Big 4 Atherton Tablelands Holiday Park, on the Atherton Tablelands.
Meals: FNE Catered breakfast, Lunch at Chillagoe Pub and Dinner at Malanda’s “Big Pub”.  

Day 3. Crater Lakes National Park to Daintree Rainforest

Start your day with Breakfast at the 90 year old Lake Barrine Teahouse, with stunning views over the serene blue volcanic crater Lake. A beautiful way to start the day, before seeing highlights such as Lake Tinaroo, and the 500 year old towering Cathedral Fig. Today we leave the Tablelands and wind our way down the Gillies Range and north along the Coast, with a Lunch stop at iconic Palm Cove in Cairns. Tonight, you will be staying at Ferntree Rainforest Lodge, Cape Tribulation - where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in the Oldest Rainforest in the World, before meeting for a group dinner at The Cassowary Restaurant.

Accommodation: Garden Loft, Ferntree Rainforest Lodge, Cape Tribulation.  
Meals
: Breakfast at Lake Barrine Teahouse, Lunch at Palm Cove, and Group Dinner at The Cassowary Restaurant.    

Day 4. Daintree Rainforest to Cooktown via Bloomfield Track

After breakfast, we head North hitting the famous Bloomfield Track to Cooktown. Weather dependent, we may experience river crossings along the way. Your highlight of the day is Wujal Wujal Falls, where you will be treated to a guided indigenous interpretive walk, hosted by  Kuku Yalanji’s Walker Family. Enjoy lunch at the historic Lions Den Hotel. Established in 1875, The Lions Den walls are adorned with signatures from around the world, a tradition that started in the old mining days. As we arrive into Cooktown soak in views from Grassy Hill and stop into the James Cook Museum before your group Dinner at River of Gold.

Accommodation: Executive Queen Room, River of Gold Motel, Cooktown.
Meals: Breakfast at The Cassowary Restaurant, Lunch at The Lions Den, and Group Dinner at River of Gold Motel.  

Day 5. Cooktown to Musgrave

Today we travel from the Cooktown area to the small town of Laura. Here we explore the remarkable Rock Art at Split Rock. Prior to European Settlement, four language groups of First Nation people lived in Laura for over 45,000 years: the Ku Ku Thaypan, Uw Olkola, Guugu Yimithir and Western Yalanji people. This artwork tells their story and is a beautiful authentic indigenous experience.

Travelling further along the Peninsula Developmental Road, we arrive at Musgrave River Roadhouse. Famous for its good old fashioned hospitality, the Roadhouse is owned and operated by one of the early pioneering families of the region – The Shepherd’s. Musgrave is about half way between Cairns and The Tip, and has been the resting place for many travellers. Magon teamsters and Parckhorse Mailmen would spell their weary teams here. Musgrave is the only overland telegraph station in the peninsula that remains.

Accommodation: Motel Room, Musgrave River Roadhouse.  
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.

Day 6. Musgrave to Wolverton Station

On the road again, we adventure into “Rinyirru”, Lakefield National Park – the largest National Park on the Peninsula, and the second largest (after Simpson Desert) in Queensland. Unlike many other places in Cape York, this National Park is not Rainforest, rather Eucalypt Woodland – and home to a diverse range of Wildlife. After exploring Lakefield, we make our way to Wolverton Station “Wildwishes” in the Archer River Region. Here we experience a taste of Station life – and it is the only station in Far North Queensland with historic cattle droving routes that were used in the 1900’s. Settle in for a billy tea and a yarn or two!

Accommodation: Donga, “Wildwishes”, Wolverton Station.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.    

Day 7 and 8. Wolverton Station to Iron Range National Park

Over the next two days we travel back toward the coast line, experiencing the Lockhart River region. Visiting untouched waterfalls, and the long coastline of stunning Chilli Beach. We also stop to explore the Lockhart River Art Centre which continues to encourage, work with, promote and represent local artist and their diverse range of artworks through paintings, ceramics, basket weaving and prints. A highlight will be experiencing the Iron Range National Park with long sweeping beaches, rocky out crops, and the largest area of low land tropical Rainforest in Australia. We will be relaxing on our 2 night stay at Greenhoose accommodation, with time at leisure.  

Accommodation: Double Ensuite, Greenhoose, Iron Range  
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.  

Day 9. Iron Range National Park to Bramwell Station

Today we travel wind inland to Bramwell Station, the most northerly cattle station in Australia. We are treated toa Station Talk followed by live entertainment. Located2 hours North of Archer River and 4 hours South of the Tip – the station is awell know and well-loved stop for visitors to the Cape over the last 40 years…however it is most famous for its location: the start of the famous 4WD challengethe “Old Telegraph Line Track”, also known as the “OTL”.

Accommodation
: Bramwell Station
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch catered by Far North Escapes, Dinner a Bramwell Buffet  

Day 10. Bramwell Station to Tip of Australia

Weather permitting, today we start on the Old Telegraph Track and the mighty Jardine River Crossing. Heading further north over the next two days we edge ever closer to our our ‘bucket list’ experience, with some incredible 4WD adventure and hidden waterfalls along the way.

Accommodation: Double Room, Loyalty Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes  

Day 11. Tip of Australia

Today, we experience the Tip of Cape York! Here, we offer you plenty of time for you to get your “Tip” photo souvenir, and soak it all in! An optional extra available to prebook mid-morning, you will be treated to a scenic Cape York helicopter flight over The Tip of Australia, with the most spectacular views thanks to Coastal Rotors. What an exciting way to celebrate this incredible experience. Lunch and Dinner will be hosted at the Northernmost Bar, Punsand Bay for an afternoon at leisure.

Accommodation
: Double Room, Loyalty Beach
Meals: Breakfast catered by Far North Escapes, Lunch & Dinner at Punsand Bay  

Day 12. Bamaga to Cairns

For those on Safari, its time to Farewell the group. Departing flight from Bamaga, mid morning/ afternoon.  

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Please Note
  • The Child Price is for ages 4 – 14.
  • Far North Escapes reserves the right to amend this itinerary due to any unforseen circumstances and accepts no responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged property, dinning and accommodation destination may be changed without notice, cancellation fees apply.
Outstanding Value Inclusions

Small Group Size

Fully catered

Enriching experiences

More 2 night stays

Safari Accommodation

Comfortable 4WD Vehicle

What's Included

Babinda Boulders. Swim in the natural pool where large granite boulders fill the creek bed.

Paronella Park. A castle set in magical rainforest land.

Milla Milla Waterfall Circuit. Trio of epic rainforest waterfalls.

Chillagoe Caves. Prehistoric limestone caves filled with ancient fossils.

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

2023 Available Departures & Returns Dates

Friday, May 26, 2023 - Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Sunday, June 11, 2023 - Thursday, June 22, 2023

Wednesday, June 28, 2023 - Sunday, July 9, 2023

Saturday, July 15, 2023 - Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Monday, July 31, 2023 - Friday, August 11, 2023

Friday, August 18, 2023 - Tuesday, August 29, 2023

2024 Available Departures & Returns Dates

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - Saturday, June 8, 2024

Friday, June 14, 2024 - Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Wednesday, July 3, 2024 - Sunday, July 14, 2024

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 - Sunday, August 4, 2024

Friday, August 9, 2024 - Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Please Note
  • Far North Escapes requested dates and times are not always available due to accommodation suppliers. Which Far North Escapes will be more then happy to arrange another alternative date if suited to clients and accommodation suppliers. Pick-up times are dependent on road conditions, traffic, and can vary.

FAQs


GENERAL


Safari vs. Premium Cape York Tours – what’s the difference?


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.

SAFARI: Our Safari Clients will be travelling in a FUSO Canter 4x4 Truck, as opposed to luxury 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

All our trips include:

Industry leading safety measures
Customer support for peace of mind
Experienced tour leaders
All taxes are included

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