9 Day 4WD Premium Cape York Tour
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Day 1. Cairns to Daintree Rainforest
Your adventure begins with an afternoon pick-up in a luxury 4WD from your Cairns accommodation. Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cairns to the charming Port Douglas and the captivating Cape Tribulation, experiencing the beauty of Australia’s tropical paradise through scenic landscapes and thrilling adventures. Take in panoramic views of the Daintree Rainforest, Coral Sea, and Great Barrier Reef from Alexandra Lookout. Check in at the eco-friendly Ferntree Rainforest Lodge and unwind amidst the soothing sounds of the jungle. As the sun sets, stroll along the idyllic Myall Beach for a serene experience. For the ultimate rainforest adventure, join the optional famous Daintree Rainforest Night Walk. Led by expert guides, unveil the hidden secrets of nocturnal creatures in this ancient world. This condensed yet action-packed itinerary will leave you with cherished memories of the unparalleled beauty of Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation.
Accommodation: Ferntree Rainforest Lodge
Meals: Welcome Dinner at Cassowary Restaurant
Day 2. Daintree Rainforest
Flop and drop by the stunning lodge pool, or explore where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Daintree Rainforest. In the morning embark on a half-day adventure with your local guides. Discover wildlife on boardwalks, satisfy your sweet tooth at the Daintree Ice Cream Factory and gain insights into the recent cyclones impact on the area. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the Cassowary Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled within the vibrant rainforest. The afternoon offers you the freedom to explore or partake in various tours available in town. Some tours might need to be booked in advance.
Accommodation: Ferntree Rainforest Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner at Cassowary Restaurant
Day 3. Daintree Rainforest to Wolverton Station
Begin your day with an exhilarating journey along the famous 4WD Bloomfield Track, heading north to the historic Cooktown. Weather permitting, embrace the thrill of river crossings en route to your destination. The day’s highlight awaits at the spectacular Wujal Wujal Falls, where you’ll be treated to a interpretive walk, by Far North Escapes. Along the way, we’ll stop at the iconic Lions Den Hotel. Established in 1875, its walls are adorned with signatures from around the world—a tradition harking back to the old mining days. Immerse yourself in the hotel’s lively atmosphere, often featuring live entertainment. Upon reaching Cooktown, soak in stunning views before venturing along the Peninsula Developmental Road to Wolverton Station “Wildwishes” in the Archer River Region. Here, experience a taste of authentic station life—it’s the only station in Far North Queensland with historic cattle droving routes from the 1900s. Settle in for a cozy billy tea and captivating storytelling. Indulge in a truly unique experience as you spend the night at the exclusive Wildwishes Glamping Tent, situated at Wolverton Station, Archer River. This is the ultimate glamping destination in Cape York.
Accommodation: Wildwishes Glamping Tent (FNE Exclusive use). Located at Wolverton Station, Archer River.
Meals: Breakfast at Cassowary Restaurant, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.
Day 4. Wolverton Station to Iron Range National Park
Over the next two days we travel back toward the coastline, 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. Our afternoon arrival brings us to The Temple Cape York: off-grid, isolated living at its finest. This is a great location with something for everyone! Fishing addicts, bike enthusiasts, bird watchers, military history buffs, and general lovers of life who want to just soak in the sea views.
Accommodation: The Temple Cape York (FNE Exclusive use). Located in Lockhart, just 10 mins from iconic Chilli Beach.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner catered by Far North Escapes.
Day 5. Choose to relax, undertake activities, or explore Iron Range National Park
Sleep in, or rise early with a sunrise coffee on the deck overlooking Chilli Beach and the Great Barrier Reef — either way, you’re starting the day right. Today is all about slowing down and soaking it all in. Your guides will take you exploring through the stunning Iron Range National Park, with its rich rainforest and chances to spot unique wildlife. Back at The Temple, cool off in the brand new pool, wander the shoreline with sand under your feet, or just let the rhythm of the waves set your pace. It’s the ultimate blend of chill and adventure, all in one serene, off-grid hideaway.
In the past, we’d often visit Maʼalpiku — “Restoration Island” — to spend time with the inspiring David Glasheen. Sadly, Resto Dave passed away this year. It was a true privilege to know him, and we miss him dearly.
Day 6. 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. Located 2 hours North of Archer River and 4 hours South of the Tip – the station is a well known 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 7. Bramwell Station to Cape York Peninsula
Weather permitting, today we start on the Telegraph Track and the mighty Jardine River Crossing. Heading further north over the next two days we edge ever closer to our ‘bucket list’ experience, with some incredible 4WD adventure and hidden waterfalls along the way. You’re in the heart of it all now!
Accommodation: Cape York Peninsula Lodge
Meals: Breakfast at Bramwell Station, Lunch catered by Far North Escapes and Group Dinner at Cape York Peninsula Lodge.
Day 8. Cape York Peninsula to the Tip of Australia “Pajinka”
Start your day with an adventure to the legendary ‘Tip’ of Australia in Cape York, a place brimming with vibrant ecosystems and steeped in ancient history. A highlight of this part of your journey is the chance to capture your photo next to the iconic signpost marking the northernmost point of the Australian mainland. This moment, standing at the very ‘Tip’ and creating a special souvenir, is as profound as it is picturesque.
Your journey, however, is just beginning. Helicopters stand ready to whisk you away on an extraordinary aerial expedition that promises to be awe-inspiring. Launching from the serene Pascent ove the mesmerizing coastline, where shimmering azure waters gently lap against the golden sands. From this unrivalled vantage point, a symphony of islands unfolds beneath you. Enjoy the unique perspective on Thursday Island, home to vibrant villages surrounded by lush greenery, and Horn Island, a site of significant World War II history. The crowning jewel of your journey is the unforgettable flight over Roko Island. This tropical oasis, surrounded by the endless blue, holds a magnetic appeal that can only be truly appreciated from above. You’ll have ten precious minutes to bask in the enchanting beauty of Roko Island, creating memories that will last a lifetime.For those who find themselves spellbound by Roko Island’s allure, there’s an opportunity to extend your experience. For an additional fee, you can lengthen your helicopter tour, affording you extra time to soak in the mesmerizing vistas that Roko Island ha to offer. Theelicopter tour, then, is not just a journey; it’s an experience. It’s about witnessing the stunning natural beauty of Cape York’s islands from the sky, about standing at the iconic ‘Tip’ signpost, and about the thrill of aerial exploration. Buckle up and prepare for an expedition that’s as breathtaking as the destination itself.
Accommodation: Cape York Peninsula Lodge
Meals: Breakfast catered by Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Lunch at Punsand Bay Cape York Camping and Dinner at Cape York Peninsula Lodge
Day 9. Cape York Peninsula to Thursday Island
An early morning Ferry from Sesia to Thursday Island. We will arrange for luggage to be taken to your Thursday Island accommodation the Grand Hotel, while you enjoy the last day of touring. Firstly, you’ll join a guided tour of Thursday Island. This in-depth tour brings the remote Island’s history to life. Places you’ll visit include Green Hill Fort and the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial. We are treated to a comprehensive commentary which includes important aspects of the maritime, cultural and military history that has shaped the region. Your TI guide will drop you back to The Top Pub where you will enjoy Lunch. Afterwards your guide will escort you back to the Grand Hotel where you can enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, Dinner will be hosted at The Grand Hotel Bistro, where you will farewell your Far North Escapes Guide and reflect as a group on the amazing adventure that was.
Accommodation: Thursday Island accommodation, Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast catered by Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Lunch at Top Pub, Dinner at the Grand Hotel Bistro
Day 10. Thursday Island to Cairns
Ferry transfer from Thursday Island to Horn Island. Departing flight from HID-CNS with Qantas.
Meals: Breakfast catered by Grand Hotel Bistro
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.
Please take a moment to review the information below and make yourself familiar with our FAQs.
What are the luggage restrictions and packing recommendations?
To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, we kindly request that you limit your luggage to a soft-sided bag or backpack weighing no more than 10 kg (22 lbs), accompanied by a 4 kg (9 lbs) hand luggage. We kindly ask that you refrain from using hard-sided suitcases due to space limitations in our 4WD vehicles. To assist you in packing appropriately for your Cape York adventure, we have prepared a detailed packing list covering clothing, footwear, personal items, and any additional equipment you may need during the tour. You can access the comprehensive guide by downloading the PDF from this link. Please remember that choosing versatile and suitable items for the tropical climate of Cape York is key to a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
When is the final payment due?
The final payment for your tour is due 60 days from the final departure day. We kindly request that you complete the payment by this date to secure your reservation. Should you have any questions or require assistance with the payment process, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly customer service team.
Does Far North Escapes organise post-tour transfers?
Please note that Far North Escapes does not provide transportation arrangements for guests upon arrival in Cairns following the conclusion of the tour. We advise our customers to make their own provisions for subsequent transportation needs. We understand that this may require some additional planning on your part, and we appreciate your understanding in this matter. If you need any assistance or recommendations regarding transportation options, feel free to reach out to us, and we will be glad to assist you.
What are the Top places to store your Caravan before a Cape York Tour?
We have taken the liberty to write a blog with our recommendations. You can find all the information you need by clicking on the following link.
What is our cancellation policy?
GUEST CANCELLATIONS If you cancel your booking with us, you must notify us in writing or by email to bookings@farnorthescapes.com 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.
•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
When should we receive our pre-travel documents?
You will receive your pre-travel document approximately 30 days prior to your departure date. This comprehensive document will be your go-to resource, providing essential information such as pick-up details, a detailed packing list, luggage restrictions, and a meticulously crafted itinerary.
We can’t wait to welcome you on board and embark on this exciting adventure together. Get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Cape York!
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Our guide tried hard and got a second star, she was very enthusiastic and helpful and good at making spiders and crickets sound interesting.
Three young kids under 10 from one family didn’t make the experience any better the youngest got very tired about 1/2 way through.
If you like looking at spiders and crickets and the odd bit of glowing fungi then this is the trip for you.
Did manage to glimpse the eyes of a small croc near the end but all in all a very disappointing noisy boardwalk night walk.
Not worth the $110 per couple





















Jan & Mike

Although we didn’t see many larger animals, we were very intrigued by all the smaller insects and fungi! Definitely recommend this tour, would love to do it again after some rain.




Despite the fact the area had only recently opened up to the public after Cyclone Jasper devastated the area, the group got to see a whole host of fungi, plants, insects, and even mammals. Each that we saw was met with engaging facts and exploration of the symbiosis of the rainforest.
A well crafted story from start to finish. Thoroughly recommend! (Bring a better than a phone camera if you want to photograph the coolest stuff)




We ran across them while looking for a tour through the Daintree Rainforest, but we also wanted a tour up through the middle of the country and were unable to find any offerings. So, after booking a 3-day Daintree tour, we asked if they had any suggestions for the outback tour we wanted. Instead of a recommendation, they created a custom tour for us.
Both of these tours greatly exceeded our expectations.
Had we done our own outback tour, we’d have missed the wine country north of Adelaide, the incredible Brachina Gorge with it’s hundreds of millions of years of geologic history, a tour of the opal mines of Coober Pedy, the iconic Uluru and it’s nearby (and arguably better) Kata Tjuṯa, and the awesome Kings Canyon.
Similarly, I doubt most Daintree tours would have exposed us to its unexpected treasures, from its intertwined symbiotic plant/animal relationships and ecologic ties to the adjacent Great Barrier Reef, to quiet forest trails, beaches, and waterholes. And the night tour’s spiders, opossums, walking sticks, sporing fungi and bioluminescent flora were out of this world!
By the time we were done, our heads crammed with experiences and information we never expected, the owner and staff, especially Mark, Kane, and Jackie, felt more like friends than tour guides.







Driving on Bloomfield track was a great experience and arriving at Cooktown you feel reaching almost the tip of Australia!
Thank you for the experience!
Highly recommend !


My expectations from tour may have been wrong to start with? I had hoped to learn more about the forest rather than just take a walk.
I wouldn't have gone into the forest at night without a guide so that was useful as interesting to see it at night and saw some things I wouldn't have seen otherwise. However, I was expecting to be able to talk to the guide and learn information.
Met at reception, disorganised as late start and more people than she was expecting. Had to fill in electronic waiver but I never even saw it as had no internet access and you had to use your own phone.
In terms of knowing who was with us there was a count at the beginning of the evening and a count at the end of the evening on return, she had no idea whether people were missing during the tour and the group got quite separated at times.
At times I felt unsafe due to the strange behaviour of one individual on the tour and also due to the fact we were so far behind and couldn't hear anything that we had no idea what was dangerous and what wasn't.
I had really looked forward to learning and understanding our environment but that didn't happen. I'm reasonably adventurous but completely new to the rainforest environment and therefore cautious which is why I'd booked the tour.
The initial walking pace was to fast for some, I suspect a nervousness from the guide (who seemed more comfortable with insects than people) and just too many people in the group. We couldn't hear what she was saying on the walk as the footsteps drowned out her voice she talked as she walked and she faced forward at the front of the group. The photo is the closest we got to the guide during the evening.
When the tour started I was aware we had no idea what was going on as we couldn't hear at the back and after hearing something about scorpions I felt the need to speak up and explain the difficulties we were having ( no point in complaining later if you don't speak up at time). I asked if it were possible for her to point things out to the front of the group, then go past but her stay with the point of interest until we'd all seen it and heard about it. She did this once or twice but that was it. Most of the time we knew the front of the group had stopped to see something then by the time we got to it we had to try and figure out what we were looking for. Didn't get to speak to the guide once throughout the tour.
I tried getting to the front of the group but just kept getting barged backwards which felt unsafe in the night forest. Eventually the back group of about 6 of us just followed everyone for the walk.
Things were made harder as the torches weren't great, mine was particularly poor and my partner kindly swapped. The guides torch was significantly better but no use to the back party of the group as she'd moved the torch by the time we got there.
Guide clearly had a passion for the subject. I'm not sure if she was out of her depth with the numbers or just generally people.
Tour could be improved by either smaller group, max 10, a second guide at the back of the group or better group management making sure the whole group was gathered and stationary before talking and then ensuring everyone had a chance to see.
Disappointed in tour but interesting to have a walk at night. Lots to see if you know what you're looking for.




This tour is suitable for all ages and all fitness levels.

We were quite exhausted after a great day with Kel, but we still managed to enjoy and learn from Kane. Be aware though - 1.5 hours easily turns into 2.5 hours with so much to see! Thanks Kane!
Thanks to Kel too for a FUNtastic 2 day tour to Cooktown! :)



Shania took care of our transfer from Cairns to the Daintree Lodge. Immediately she made us feel at ease and welcome, taking time to explain the history and the importance of the Daintree National Park. The two hours ride felt like we were visiting with a good friend.
Kane took care of our night walk and the full day 4WD tour to Cooktown and Daintree tour. Kane’s knowledge and passion for the Daintree all encompassing life is amazing. During the night walk he showed us plants and animals to our amazement and the delight of the children present in our group. During the 4WD day tour we were treated to beautiful sights complemented with history, interesting facts and stories.




The view was amazing, the rainforests are a basis for knowledge in botany and geology fields the compeny gave us a very interesting day.



The depth of knowledge of the guide was appalling.
We spent our time largely on the main boardwalk (which we had already walked on that day) looking at plants in the dark which we could see much better in daylight. In terms of wildlife we saw ants, a praying mantis type insect and some very small scorpions that live in the mortar joints of a stone seat on the path. The group was too large to hear easily, the torches were not overly bright and overall it was a real disappointment. I understand that you can not be guaranteed to see wildlife but you would expect a guide to be very knowledgeable about what he is showing you on a set walk that he is familiar with. Just not good enough.


This company is pretty switched onto what you would like to experience.
Nate was very knowledgeable right throughout the tour and his insight to the changing environment was very helpful to being able to understand the history and importance of the area.
There are many places of interest to explore and experience.
As a package deal of all inclusive tours,accommodation,meals,we could not find any issues of what was advertised and delivered.
Kudos to Far North Escapes for making our unknown adventure into a extremely memorable experience.
We would not hesitate to book another trip/tour or adventure with Far North Escapes.
Again,A huge thank you to Nate as he really made our trip a truly memorable experience.

From the forests of the Atherton Tablelands and Daintree, through the dusty roads of PDR to the Tip of the continent and beyond; by land, by sea, and by air .Our outstanding guides have stopped at nothing to ensure that we have an adventure of a life time!
Thank you Andrea and Malia for showing us stunning sights, educating us on local knowledge, feeding us with delicious local gourmet food, driving us safely, and for the always pleasant & captivating conversation. We really appreciate your kindness, professionalism, and commitment to our every need. This trip wouldn't have been the same without your guidance.
Thank you also to our wonderful group of fellow travellers for making this journey a very enjoyable and pleasant one. I am so glad that our paths crossed with each and every one of you!!




Our excellent guide took us to some amazing sites and talked with confidence about everything we saw giving some fascinating details on the animals, plants and cultures, he talked the whole way whilst driving us off road on the bumpy bloomfield track through creeks and stopping at various locations up to Wujal Wujal. There we met a member of the Jalunji peoples who took us to the falls explaining a lot about her culture, then we sat with an older member of their mob and talked about her experiences and their persecution whilst looking through historic pictures. Even though there was so much to see we never felt rushed and were allowed to take our time.

It was la day out with a friend.. Thank you Nate .. The company itself was very nice and accommodative .. genuine people. High recommend .

Our guide duly noted that seeing anything was a lottery - but, sure enough, though it was a while before we spotted anything notable, we did see Huntsman spiders, two sleeping finches, tiny scorpions, moths, a Peppermint Stick Insect, tarantula, fireflies and more. The guide had good information about the forest, its trees, climbers and the fauna we encountered.
Where the experience failed however was in the number of participants - about 16 people. This meant that those at the back of the group (we were walking two-by-two along the boardwalk) missed several of the sightings and the accompanying information.
Before we started the guide was very insistent that we had to (electronically) sign an insurance waiver - even though he described the walk as 'easy' because it was along the paved boardwalk. That part certainly was easy, but the final 400 metres along a very rocky stream bed was really quite dodgy, bearing in mind the darkness. I even had to help an elderly couple up the very steep approx. 1 metre climb on to the road. The guide probably had no idea anyone needed assistance. He was a couple of hundred metres ahead of us by this stage.
I have conducted tours for 15 years all around the world and know that you have to attend to the whole group, all of the time in order to provide a satisfying and professional experience. There were far too many in this group for the guide to appropriately manage and perhaps because of that, a good percentage of the group were neglected.











We walked for a short time on the boardwalk (which we had walked earlier in the day) which anyone could do themselves. Hard to hear guide as a large group. Torches weren’t great. Saw some stick insects, spiders and frogs. Wasn’t great unfortunately and not worth the money for a family.
