Cape York Discoverer

Itinerary

Day 1 Cairns

Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, tropical Cairns is the best place for ocean exploration.

Day 2 Lakefield National Park

Departing Cairns early hit the road North, passing giant termite mounds and wild scrub. Walk to indigenous cultural sites at Split Rock and view ancient Quinkan rock art. Spend the night camped in a national park.

Day 3 Merluna Station

Rise early to explore waterlily-laden billabongs, lagoons and waterholes but don't be tempted to take a dip - saltwater crocodiles lurk beneath. End the day at a family-operated cattle station. Spend the night camped under the Capes clear sky.

Day 4 Moreton

Scattered with coconut palms and danger signs, the mining town of Weipa is an eye-opening interlude on the way to Moreton. Later, go birdwatching at an old telegraph station, one of the few havens for the spectacular Great Palm Cockatoo.

Day 5 Indian Head Falls

Be prepared for a rough and dusty ride on the Telegraph Track followed by a refreshing dip in spring-fed creeks. Camp by beautiful waterfalls and enjoy a relaxed bush atmosphere.

Days 6-7 Torres Strait Camp/Cape York

Cross the Jardine River by cable ferry. Relax on the tropical shores of the Torres Strait and lap up the luxuries of civilisation once more. Rising early, pass through an isolated pocket of rainforest and then touch the northernmost tip of the continent: Cape York. Next day, opt for a tropical cruise to Thursday Island, a guided fishing adventure, a peaceful stint of bird-watching or a snooze.

Day 8 Cairns

Get the greatest view of all on a scenic flight from Bamaga, flying over the Great Barrier Reef. Bid fellow explorers farewell back in Cairns.