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Cape York Wilderness Adventure
Operated by Outback Spirit
Tripcode:
Overview
Destination:
Australia,
Cape York & Far North Queensland (Australia),
Start:Cairns, Queensland
Finish:Cairns, Queensland
Finish:Cairns, Queensland
Duration:13 days
Travel Period
May 2026 - September 2027
Tour Highlights:
- Stand at Pajinka, the northernmost tip of the Australian mainland, and take in the vast, wild beauty of Cape York from its most iconic viewpoint
- Journey along the legendary Bloomfield Track, stopping at the base of Bloomfield Falls before enjoying lunch at the historic Lion’s Den Hotel
- Visit the award-winning Mossman Gorge Centre in the Daintree National Park and experience the Dreamtime Gorge Walk with a local guide
- Spend two nights at tranquil Lotusbird Lodge, surrounded by pristine wetlands and abundant birdlife
- Soar above the spectacular Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park by helicopter. Also visit Red Lily Lagoon, Nifold Plain & the Normanby River by land tour
- Explore the Torres Strait Islands, visiting Thursday, Horn and Friday Islands to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s culture, history and island life
- Stay at Outback Spirit’s Moreton Wilderness Lodge for two nights, set on the banks of the Wenlock River, one of Australia’s most ecologically significant waterways
- Swim in the crystal-clear pools of Fruit Bat Falls, a hidden gem nestled within the Cape’s rugged terrain
- Experience the power of local Indigenous culture with a traditional dance performance that brings Country, community and storytelling to life
Moments of Magic
Lakefield from the air
There is no better way to experience the astounding wilderness of Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park than by scenic helicopter flight. Fly over picturesque rivers, lagoons and woodlands spotting wildlife below and follow the Kennedy River to Princess Charlotte Bay.
Friday Island Pearls
Enjoy a visit to idyllic Friday Island, home of Kazu Pearls. Learn about the cultivation, seeding and harvesting of the oyster whilst overlooking pristine turquoise waters.
Please note:
-Itinerary, excursions, accommodation, or sightseeing arrangements are subject to change with little or no notice due to road conditions, weather, cultural considerations, safety factors and other operational considerations or government regulations. Final itineraries are sent to passengers approximately 2-3 weeks before travel.
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
- All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) included. Complimentary beverages from a selected list included at lunch and dinner (when dining at licensed venues only).
- 12 nights of hotel and lodge accommodation
- All entry fees into National Parks and all cruise fees
- One-way airfare from Horn Island to Cairns with QANTAS
- Travel aboard a 5-star 4WD Mercedes Benz Coach
- Services of a professional 2-person crew consisting of a Tour Driver and Tour Director
- Outback Spirit Explorer Pack (for first-time travellers only)
Itinerary
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Collapse allDay 1: Cairns - Port Douglas
Arrive in Cairns by early afternoon and meet your friendly and professional touring crew. We then begin our journey north with a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway to Port Douglas. Enjoy a brief tour of this famous relaxed tropical village before checking in. Meal: (B).
Accommodation: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort.
Day 2: Port Douglas - Mossman Gorge - Daintree National Park
This morning, meandering north, we’ll visit the award-winning Mossman Gorge Centre in the Daintree National Park. Embark on the Dreamtime Gorge Walk, beginning with a traditional smoking ceremony. Guided by knowledgeable Indigenous custodians, you’ll discover the rich stories, culture, and connection to Country that make this experience truly unforgettable. At the end of the walk, enjoy traditional bush tea and damper. We then venture further into the Daintree, with an informative cruise on the Daintree River, before an exclusive guided tour at Cooper Creek Wilderness to learn more about the world’s oldest rainforest. Tonight, you’ll be staying at the Heritage Lodge and Spa in a cabin set in the quiet serenity of the Daintree forest. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Heritage Lodge and Spa.
Day 3: Cape Tribulation - Bloomfield Track - Cooktown
Journey deeper into the Daintree as we venture to Cape Tribulation, the only place on Earth where two UNESCO World Heritage wonders meet: the ancient Daintree rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. After a serene beach stroll, get ready for an exhilarating drive along the legendary Bloomfield Track, a true outback adventure. There are numerous steep climbs through the rainforest and several creek crossings to navigate, so sit back and enjoy the scenery as your experienced tour driver does the hard work. Once we’re across the Bloomfield River, a visit to Bloomfield Falls will build your appetite for lunch at the Lion’s Den Hotel, one of Queensland’s oldest bush pubs. We arrive at Cooktown with time for an orientation town tour which includes the James Cook Museum, Cooktown Botanic Gardens and Grassy Hill lookout. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Sovereign Resort Hotel.
Day 4: Laura - Lotusbird Lodge
Setting out today, we travel the historic Battle Camp Road (subject to road conditions), stopping at the Old Laura Homestead before reaching the cultural heart of Laura. Here, an Indigenous guide leads us through ancient rock art sites, sharing cultural stories passed down through generations. We then continue into Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park, pausing at Kalpowar for afternoon tea before arriving at the wildlife-rich Red Lily Lagoon. As the journey unfolds, watch the landscape transform into the vast savannah of Nifold Plain. Tonight, you’ll stay at Lotusbird Lodge in unique pole style cabins, complete with private verandah and ensuite. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Lotusbird Lodge.
Day 5: Rinyarra (Lakefield) from the Air
Take to the skies for a breathtaking helicopter flight over Rinyirru (Lakefield National Park), soaring above shimmering wetlands and sprawling floodplains. Afterwards, follow the Kennedy River to scenic Princess Charlotte Bay, part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and habitat for the dugong. The afternoon is yours - relax at the lodge or join a guided walk through the billabong, where you might spot rare birdlife. Meals: (B,L,D).
Please Note: Weight limits apply to all scenic flights.
Accommodation: Lotusbird Lodge.
Day 6: Coen - Weipa
Departing Lotusbird Lodge, we make our way north along the Peninsula Development Road, passing through Coen before arriving at a bucket list stop Archer River Roadhouse for lunch, one of Australia’s northern most roadhouses. We then continue to Weipa, the economic hub of the Cape and often referred to as the ‘Barramundi capital of Queensland’ due to the abundance of marine life. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Albatross Bay Resort.
Day 7: Wildlife Cruise - Batavia Downs - Moreton Telegraph
Start the day with a tranquil cruise along the Embley River, spotting diverse wildlife and learning about the region’s unique history. Back on land, we visit the Western Cape Cultural Centre before heading deeper into the remote north, passing Batavia Downs and following the historic Telegraph Track to our overnight stay at Moreton Telegraph Station the perfect place to bed down and absorb the wilderness of the Cape. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Moreton Wilderness Lodge.
Day 8: Moreton Telegraph Station
Wake up to the sounds of beautiful birdsong and explore the remote landscapes surrounding Moreton Telegraph Station. Join a guided walk along the Wenlock River, home to an extraordinary variety of freshwater fish, including the elusive spear-tooth shark. This afternoon, unwind and enjoy the peace of this secluded haven. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Moreton Wilderness Lodge.
Day 9: Telegraph Track - Heathlands - Fruit Bat Falls - Bamaga
Our adventure continues along the rugged Telegraph Track, cutting through remote and wild terrain. Some sections of the track are impassable, so we take the northern and southern bypass roads. A highlight of the day is a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Fruit Bat Falls, a true oasis in the outback. After a picnic lunch, we cross the Jardine River by ferry, formally known as Deception River the largest river of the Cape. We arrive in the indigenous town of Bamaga late afternoon and check in to the award-winning Cape York Peninsula Lodge, our home the next two nights. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Cape York Peninsula Lodge.
Day 10: Bamaga - The Tip of Cape York
Today, we venture to the northernmost point on the Australian Mainland, a Cape traveller’s ultimate destination. The walking track commences at Pajinka and requires a good level of fitness but is well worth the effort. Have your picture taken next to the iconic signpost and soak up the views of the Torres Strait as your guide fills you in on the history of the area. This afternoon, we visit Somerset, once a significant trading post and with rich Indigenous culture and history. After a BBQ lunch, we return to the hotel where the rest of the day is spent at your leisure. Tonight, experience an engaging performance by a local dance group at the resort. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Cape York Peninsula Lodge.
Day 11: Endeavour Strait - Thursday Island - Kazu Pearls Friday
Step aboard for a relaxing cruise across Endeavour Strait with informative commentary about the Torres Strait Islands, as we make our way to Thursday Island, affectionately known as TI. Home to around 3,000 residents, the island serves as the main administrative centre of the Torres Strait. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour with a local expert. A short ferry ride carries us across to Friday Island, one of the more secluded islands and home to Kazu Pearls. Pearl farming started here in the 1860’s, where you’ll witness a fascinating demonstration before returning to Thursday Island for our overnight stay. Meals: (B,L,D).
Note: When taking the ferries to the islands, we suggest reducing luggage to a small backpack. You will require a change of clothes, comfortable shoes, bathers, toiletries (no sharps), personal ID and Qantas Frequent Flyer card (if you have one). Other luggage will return to Cairns via coach.
Accommodation: Grand Hotel, Thursday Island.
Day 12: Horn Island - Cairns
This morning, we catch a ferry across to Horn Island and enjoy a tour of this once prominent WWII air base before visiting the Torres Strait Heritage Museum. We then board our flight back to Cairns, arriving in time for lunch. Tonight, enjoy a special farewell dinner to farewell new friends and reflect upon our incredible adventure to the tip of Australia. Meals: (B,L,D).
Accommodation: Shangri-La, The Marina.
Day 13: Farewell - Cairns
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and soak in the final moments of your stay enjoying the morning at leisure. We’ll ensure your smooth transfer to Cairns Airport or to your accommodation if staying on. Meal: (B).
Dates
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Operator
Outback Spirit
At Outback Spirit, we’re continuing with what we’ve done for the past 22 years, which is connecting you – our guests – to Australia’s most remarkable landscapes, unique touring experiences and some very special communities. We’ve always made guest safety paramount – and we continue to do so with our experienced guides who are the best in the business and subtle changes to protect us in this new world of travel. Our journeys incorporate the finest accommodation available, specialised vehicles, fine food and wine and something we could all do with a little more of – and that’s perspective. When you realise you’re one of a handful of people to see exquisite rock art that’s thousands of years old, or you’re overlooking a rugged outback landscape once covered by sea, you gain a sense of perspective that prevails over everything else.
Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.
For more information, please see Terms of Use
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12 nights
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