10 Day 4WD Premium Hotel Cape York Tour FNE10PCY

Itinerary

PLEASE NOTE:  Please arrive in Cairns before 12 pm the first day for your transfer to Thala Beach Lodge. Departure flights are recommended for late afternoon or the day after your tour.

• 1 Day 1 Pre Tour Accommodation - Welcome Dinner at Oak Beach (D)

  Tonight, you will be staying at the beautiful eco and wildlife retreat: Thala Beach Lodge. Your bungalow is nestled among 58 hectares of native forest on secluded Oak Beach, where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before meeting for a group dinner with 180-degree views of the Coral Sea.

  Accommodation: Eucalyptus Bungalow, Thala Beach Lodge.

• 2 Day 2 Oak Beach to Cooktown (B L D)

  Your day begins with your luxury 4WD awaiting you at your accommodation at Thala Beach Lodge. Embark on an unforgettable journey from the charming Port Douglas to the captivating Cape Tribulation, experiencing the beauty of Australia’s tropical paradise through scenic landscapes and thrilling adventures. Your expedition begins with the eco-friendly Crocodile Cruise Solar Whisperer at the Daintree River, where you’ll marvel at magnificent crocodiles in their natural habitat.

  Next, take in panoramic views of the Daintree Rainforest, Coral Sea, and Great Barrier Reef from Alexandra Lookout. Continue with a leisurely walk on the Madja Boardwalk, immersing yourself in the enchanting rainforest. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Daintree Ice Cream Factory, indulging in locally-sourced exotic fruit ice cream. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the Cassowary Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled within the vibrant rainforest.

  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: Cottage Cabin, Ferntree Rainforest Lodge Rainforest Retreat.

• 3 Day 3 Cooktown to Wolverton Station (B L D)

  Begin your day with an exhilarating journey along the famous 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. Located at Wolverton Station, Archer River.

• 4 Day 4 Wolverton Station to Iron Range National Park (B L D)

  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 outcrops, and the largest area of lowland 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. Located in Lockhart, just 10 mins from iconic Chilli Beach.

• 5 Day 5 Choose to relax, undertake activities, or explore Iron Range National Park (B L D)

  A day at leisure or a day of complete adventure at THE TEMPLE CAPE YORK…

  Choose to flop and drop and enjoy a day at leisure on the stunning sands of Chilli Beach at THE TEMPLE CAPE YORK. Or choose your own adventure, with optional extras available to book in advance:
  ‍- Private Cape York Fishing Charters (up to 4 persons)
  – Heli Fishing with Bungie Helicopter
  – Dirt Bike Hire
  – One Day Dirt Bike Tour including Bike, Lunch, Guide
  – Blo Kart Hire
  – Trip to Restoration Island
  – Trip to the Great Barrier Reef
  – Trip to Forbes Island includes camping overnight

• 6 Day 6 Iron Range National Park to Bramwell Station (B L D)

  Today we travel wind inland to Bramwell Station, the most northerly cattle station in Australia. We are treated to a 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 challenge the “Old Telegraph Line Track”, also known as the “OTL”.

  ‍Accommodation: Bramwell Station

• 7 Day 7 Bramwell Station to Cape York Peninsula (B L D)

  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

• 8 Day 8 Cape York Peninsula to the Tip of Australia “Pajinka” (B L D)

  Today, we experience the Tip of Australia at Cape York! Here, we offer you plenty of time for you to get your “Tip” photo souvenir and soak it all in!

  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: Cape York Peninsula Lodge

• 9 Day 9 Cape York Peninsula to Thursday Island (B L D)

  An early morning Ferry from Sesia to Thursday Island. We will arrange for luggage to be taken to your Thursday Island accommodation the Island Villa, while you enjoy the last day of touring.

  Firstly, you’ll join an Indigenous 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 that 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.

  Afterward, your guide will escort you back to the Villa where you can enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, Dinner will be hosted at The Grand Hotel Bistro, where you will farewell your Guide and reflect as a group on the amazing adventure that was.

  ‍Accommodation: Thursday Island Villa, Island Villas.

• 10 Day 10 Thursday Island to Cairns (B)

  Ferry transfer from Thursday Island to Horn Island. Departing flight from Horn Island to Cairns with Qantas mid-morning.

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, 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.

Single Travelers must book a “single” rate as we don’t offer shared rooms with other single travelers. Child Prices are available for Ages 4 – 14.

Additional Information

Covid Policy
Please be aware that all tours and accommodation options listed are subject to the Qld government’s latest COVID health advice and regulations. These can and do change with the current pandemic situation. Please refer to the Qld Government Health site for any information relevant to you. The responsibility to follow all Qld Health directives on such things as border regulations, interstate hot spots, and vaccine passports/requirement is yours -please refer to the Qld Government Health site for the latest information.

Luggage Limits
‍Each Passenger is entitled to take one medium size suitcase or soft bag weighing no more than 15 kg. The sum of each case’s width, length and depth is not to exceed 150cm. Passengers may also take on board the coach one hand luggage item to be stored in the overhead luggage racks. The weight of hand luggage is not to exceed 3 kg per person.

Please note that Luggage limits are enforced on every tour. Passengers will be asked to leave their excess baggage behind in the event that the weight of the luggage exceeds our limits. The luggage is entirely at the passenger’s risk during the tour.
‍
Overweight Luggage Charges:
a. Passengers are responsible for complying with the luggage weight restrictions set by the airline(s) or transportation provider(s) associated with their tour.
‍b. If a passenger’s luggage exceeds the allowed weight limit, an overweight luggage charge will apply as specified by the airline(s) or transportation provider(s).
‍c. The overweight luggage charge will be communicated to the passenger prior to departure or at the time of check-in.d. The overweight luggage charge is the sole responsibility of the passenger and must be paid directly to the airline(s) or transportation provider(s) at the time of occurrence.

Unused Tour Sectors
‍If a passenger fails to join a tour as booked or joins in after the tour has departed, or departs prior to the completion of the tour, no refund will be made for any portion of the tour including food, excursions, accommodation, etc., that are not used or undertaken.

Children Policy
‍Children & minors under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. If required baby car seats can be provided at an extra charge. All minors that are under the age of 2-years old are free, but any extra charges accumulated throughout the tour will have to be covered by the responsible entity undertaking the booking.

Itinerary Times & Vehicles
‍Approximate pick-up and scheduled times are only a guide, certain circumstances can alter these times. The operator has the right to substitute vessels, vehicles or change itineraries, accommodations due to weather conditions, availability, mechanical failure, or the like.

Travel Insurance
As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to get a free no-obligation quote from Cover-More Travel Insurance.

Credit Card Payments
Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment.

Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

Direct Deposit
Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

Commonwealth Bank: Australian Tours and Cruises
Reference: Your Trip Number
BSB: 062-504 Account: 1066 1268
Branch Address: Shop 1/80-84 William St, Bathurst NSW 2795
In Bank Payment of Cash Or Cheque: Add $5 for bank fees
International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees
SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

Booking Terms and Conditions

Be aware that some confirmed bookings are not refundable if cancelled, and also may not be transferable to another date or otherwise changed. Alternatively, a change may only be permissible subject to payment of an additional fee or charge. Your entitlement to a refund for cancelled bookings is subject to the relevant Supplier’s terms and conditions. Please note that if we are entitled to a service fee for placing a booking, we will remain entitled to this fee if you cancel the booking or the Supplier fails to provide you with the Product for any reason (other than our default), including in an event of Force Majeure. We will be entitled to deduct our service fee from any refund we receive on your behalf before remitting the balance to you. Suppliers’ fees are outlined in their relevant terms and conditions.

If you cancel your booking with us, you must notify us in writing or by email.

Please review the full Terms and Conditions and Schedule of Fees prior to making a booking.

Supplier Terms and Conditions Summary:

• 60 days or more prior to departure will incur a fee of 25% cancellation fee
• 30-59 days prior to departure will incur a fee of 50% cancellation fee
• 29 days or less prior to departure will incur a fee of 100% cancellation fee

Changes to the Itinerary Passengers accept that we may need to alter or amend itineraries, excursions, accommodation or sightseeing arrangements from those published, with little or no notice. This may be due to road conditions, weather, cultural considerations, safety factors and other operational considerations or government regulations or directions. Such decisions will be made in the best interests of the passenger’s comfort and safety, or where required by law. In these circumstances, we will endeavour to make suitable alternative arrangements which may include the use of light aircraft.

Transfer of Tour Dates ‍Should you wish to transfer to another of our tours, a handling fee of $120 may be charged. No cancellation fee will apply unless the tour is changed inside the full payment period; inside this period, changing dates is the same as cancelling your tour and the cancellation fee will be imposed.

Pets No pets are permitted on any tours, only services dogs may accompany tour guests.

FAQs

• Is there phone service in Far North Queensland?

  In most towns you will get phone service, but there are large stretches between towns that may not have service. Satellite phones are carried on tours for emergency use. Phone service will be possible in Cairns, Laura, Seisia, Roko Island, Thursday Island, Horn Island, Weipa, Cooktown and Coen. There may be other locations and all service will depend on the phone carrier used.

• How can I pay for my tour?
  We use TravelPay to process credit cards as it is recommended by AFTA (The Australian Federation of Travel Agents) as it provides protection in the event of supplier insolvency.

  Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

  If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment. Remember that ‘TravelPay’ will appear on your credit card statement.

  Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

  Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

  Commonwealth Bank – Australian Tours and Cruises

  Reference: Trip Number

  BSB: 062-504    Account: 1066 1268

  International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees

  SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

• What medical clearance form do I use for the cargo boat?
  MV Trinity Bay Passengers

  IMPORTANT: Please note that MV “Trinity Bay” requires passengers to complete a Passenger Medical Information Form to advise the crew of any medical issues they may need to be aware of. This information will also be used by medical attendants in the event of a medical emergency or accident.

  If required by Part 1 of the Sea Swift Passenger Medical Form, a GP Fit-to-Travel Clearance is available to print and take to your GP for signature.
  Please email a copy back to reservations@capeyorktours.com.au to complete your booking, please include your booking reference number in the email.

  Bookings are not confirmed until all forms are completed and returned.

• Is there mobile phone reception and internet cafe access on the tour?
  Digital mobile telephones only operate in Cooktown. Telstra NEXT G telephones work in Cooktown, Laura, Coen, Weipa and Thursday Island. Email access via internet cafes is generally not available. Most phones these days can recieve emails.
• Is it possible to recharge phones, cameras etc on the tour?
  Telephones, cameras and other electrical devises can be charged using mains power in Cooktown, Musgrave, Coen, Weipa, Bramwell Station and Cape York.
• What is the policy on alcohol on the tour?
  The Government has imposed very strict alcohol regulations throughout Cape York Peninsula and our company has a permit to carry certain quantities of alcohol and complies with all regulations and laws. Please contact our office for further, more recent information.
• What is the policy on smoking on the tour?
  As per Government regulations, smoking is not permitted in vehicles. Ample stops provide time for smoking breaks.
• Where can I store my car and caravan?
  There are a number of places to store your vehicle or caravan. We can give you the details to book directly once your tour dates are confirmed.
• Are special dietary requirements catered for on the tour?
  If a passenger is on a medically prescribed diet, we will do our absolute utmost to cater suitable meals for that person. Please contact our office to discuss any diet needs.
• What are the meals provided on the tour?
  Your Guides / Chefs work extremely hard to provide passengers with excellent, wholesome meals. Breakfast consists of a choice of at least 3 cereals, toast and spreads. Lunch has a variety of cold meats and an abundant selection of salad vegetables on rolls or sandwiches. Evening meals begin with happy hour followed by a 2 course meal which could be a grill, roast, casserole, BBQ, fresh fish and appropriate selection of vegetables followed by a tasty dessert.
• What type of toilet and shower facilities should be expected on the tour?
  Toilets are either flushing or National Park composting type and showers are available most nights and if not, a long, soaking soap free swim in a shallow, safe stream is available.
• How far do we travel each day?
  These tours are designed to show the very best of Cape York Peninsula. The day normally starts around 8.00am ending approximately 4.00pm covering 300 kilometers per day. During the normal course of the day you will stop for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. The tour also stops at places of interest, towns, communities and any notable flora or fauna features.
• How many people will be on the tour?
  The maximum number of passengers depends on the seating in the 4WD vehicles which range from 4 to 22 seats.
• How does the tour run?
  All tours are conducted on a partial participation basis, it generates friendship and conversation. The Tour Leader does all cooking however assistance with vegetable peeling, firewood collection and filling water buckets is greatly appreciated. Passengers assist with washing and wiping and erect their own tents (unless on pre-erected tent camping tour or on accommodated tour) after a demonstration, those less agile will be given assistance.
• How much luggage am I allowed?
  Baggage space is limited. One soft sided sausage style bag per person measuring approximately 600mm x 500mm x 300mm with a maximum weight of about 10kgs plus one small day pack per person for inside the vehicle. Excess luggage may be stored at your accommodation.
• What clothing should I bring?
  4 tee shirts

  4 shorts or skirts

  Swimmers/Towel

  Water bottle

  A spray jacket/warm jacket

  1 pair of sandals

  Shady hat

  Torch

  Toiletries

  Laundry powder

  Insect repellent

  Small day pack

  Track suit pants/jeans

  NB: clothes line & pegs are supplied by us (campers only) PLEASE AVOID ARTICLES OF WHITE/LIGHT CLOTHING AS DUST MAY STAIN

• How comfortable are the 4WD vehicles and seating used on the tour?
  Vehicle seats are individual, padded bucket seats with lap and sash seat belts. Vehicle suspensions are modified to ride as comfortably as possible to Cape York. A seat rotation is normally done each day.
• What kind of boats are used on the tour?
  M.V Trinity Bay carries 38 passengers stopping at Horn Island, Thursday Island and Bamaga. The trip normally takes 2.5 days and you will sleep on the boat for 2 nights. Accommodation is in either twin cabins or 3-4 passengers per cabin, all cabins have share bathroom facilities. A licensed bar is on the ship and your trip includes meals as indicated in the tour itinerary.
• What kind of air planes are used on the tour?
  Generally medium sized air planes with a capacity of 20 to 50 passengers are used. During peak season when services are in demand we occasionally use smaller aircraft carrying 8 or less passengers.
• Should travel insurance be organised before going on the tour?
  Travel Insurance

  As a valued customer of Cape York Tours, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity get a quote from Cover-More Travel Insurance.

• Should I bring extra spending money for incidentals?
  We suggest about $300 per person. Credit cards and EFTPOS machines are accessible in most places throughout Cape York.
• What is excluded from the price of your Cape York tour?
  Any costs incurred before or after departure. Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary. Any personal items such as newspapers, telephone, alcohol and drinks, laundry, personal and travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance which specifically covers cancellation fees, most claims arise from either personnel or close-family illness before departure resulting in cancellation charges. We suggest you talk to your car, home or life insurer and purchase a policy that will cover you for cancellation fees in the unlikely event that you need to cancel your Cape York tour.
• What is included in the price of your Cape York Tours from Cairns?
  If on a camping tour – all camping equipment including tents with a floor built into them, mattresses, National Park fees, land access and usage fees to local communities, all camping fees. If on an accommodated tour – all accommodation costs whilst on tour. Meals as indicated: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D).