Southbound Cape York Highlights with Torres Strait Helicopter Flight & Horn Island Guided Tour
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Southbound Cape York Highlights with Torres Strait Helicopter Flight & Horn Island Guided Tour
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Southbound Cape York Highlights with Torres Strait Helicopter Flight & Horn Island Guided Tour

Operated by: Australian Luxury Escapes
Overview
10 days
11 places
1 country
8 people max.
14 - 80 yrs
moderate
Fully Guided Tour
This offer has sold out
About the Tour
Your tour takes you to:
Bamaga
Horn Island
Cairns
Bamaga
Archer River
Weipa
Archer River
Yarraden
Weipa
Yarraden
Cooktown
Laura
Cooktown
Daintree Rainforest
Bloomfield
Cairns
Cooktown
Great Barrier Reef

Explore the ancient histories and prehistoric rainforests of Australia’s northern reaches on an adventurous small-group tour across the Cape York Peninsula. Start your Far North Queensland voyage admiring the crystal-blue waters at Horn Island and soaring over the Torres Strait on an exhilarating helicopter ride. Head south and drive along historic tracks to hidden pools and working cattle stations, where you’ll discover the fascinating stories of the land. Dive deeper with your knowledgeable guide and travel comfortably in your air-conditioned 4WD transport. You’ll rest and reenergize at carefully selected hotels and outback stations, offering views of the region’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Finish your trip among the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and spend your final night in sun-kissed Cairns.

Overview
10 days
11 places
1 country
8 people max.
14 - 80 yrs
moderate
Fully Guided Tour
This offer has sold out
Choose a tour option
Itinerary & map
What you’ll see
Bamaga, Horn Island, Cairns

Ready for an adventure? Your guide will meet you at your Cairns hotel this morning, ready to whisk you away to Cairns Airport (CNS) for your included flight to Horn Island. Dazzling blue waters welcome to you as you join a tour to learn all about the significant role this tiny island played during World War II. Afterwards, enjoy lunch before visiting the Torres Strait Heritage Museum for a glimpse at the region’s history. Step aboard the ferry to Thursday Island, then transfer onto the Peddells Ferry to the mainland.

Upon arrival at Seisia, follow your helpful guide as you make your way to your Bamaga hotel and check in for the evening at leisure.

Inclusions
Cape York Peninsula Lodge (Standard Room) or similar
Lunch and Dinner
Bamaga

Wake up to a relaxed breakfast, then join your guide as you set off for the northernmost reaches of Queensland. Travelling to Punsand Bay, you’ll join your short scenic helicopter flight over the picturesque Torres Strait, marvelling at the crystalline waters and rugged coastline from above.

With your feet back in the sand, continue on your way to the very tip of mainland Australia. Drive through lush rainforest, stopping along the way at the legendary Croc Tent, where you can peruse all kinds of Cape York-themed souvenirs. The last 400 metres to the tip are crossed on foot. Climb out of your vehicle and make the journey across the rocky terrain to the most northerly point of mainland Australia. Take photos, choose to toast the occasion with a celebratory drink or simply soak in views of the Torres Strait.

Later, return to your Bamaga accommodation for a dip in the pool before joining your fellow travellers for dinner.

Inclusions
Cape York Peninsula Lodge (Standard Room) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Bamaga, Archer River

After a refreshing breakfast, transfer to the ferry from Seisia as you cross the Jardine River. Set out for Fruit Bat Falls, where the refreshing waters offer the perfect chance to cool off after the morning’s journey and savour a picnic lunch.

As you travel onward, enjoy afternoon tea at Bramwell Station, then continue to Batavia Downs and Morton Telegraph Station on your way to Merluna Station – a working cattle station and your home for the night. After a tour by the station owners, settle into your cabin before dinner.

Inclusions
Merluna Station (Ensuite Room) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Weipa, Archer River

Turn your attention inland as you travel west along red dirt roads to the coastal mining community of Weipa. Stop for lunch at a local cafe, then don your hard hat to tour the largest bauxite mine the world, hearing about the mining process.

Continue to the Western Cape Cultural Centre, where you’ll witness a collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork from the surrounding communities. After contemplating these indigenous works of art, you’ll transfer to your hotel for the rest of your evening to spend at leisure. Spend your downtime at your hotel overlooking the bay before reconvening for dinner tonight.

Inclusions
Albatross Bay Resort (Standard Queen Room) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Yarraden, Weipa

This morning, join an energising boat tour of the local area. Look out for saltwater crocodiles and native birds as you discover the beauty of Far North Queensland.

Later, travel on to the former telegraph station of Musgrave. This heritage homestead – once an essential communication link between Thursday Island and Mount Surprise – is now an important roadhouse for locals and travellers in Cape York. After checking into your accommodation for the night, enjoy dinner with your group.

Inclusions
Musgrave Roadhouse (Motel Room) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Yarraden, Cooktown, Laura

Rise and shine, then set out along the Peninsula Development Road towards the scenic Rinyirru or Lakefield National Park. Gaze upon the area’s famed giant termite mounds, then turn your eyes to the park’s spectacular river valleys.

Fill up with a hearty lunch on your way to Cooktown, where you’ll visit the heritage-listed Old Laura Homestead and take a moment to appreciate the historic Aboriginal art at Split Rock, where the paintings are believed to date back 14,000 years.

Later, travel on to your lodgings for an afternoon check-in, then freshen up before sitting down to dinner at the Lion’s Den Hotel – a beloved local venue with outback charm.

Inclusions
Milkwood Lodge (Cottage) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Cooktown

After breakfast, take some time to explore Cooktown, starting with Grassy Hill lookout for panoramic views and the Cooktown Museum for a glimpse into the past.

Once you’ve explored the museum, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch at a local cafe before stopping at the beautiful Cooktown Botanic Gardens for a stroll through the vibrant flora. Later, check in at your hotel for an afternoon free to relax, take a dip, and unwind before a delicious dinner with your fellow travellers.

Inclusions
Milkwood Lodge (Cottage) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Daintree Rainforest, Bloomfield, Cairns, Cooktown

Make your way along the scenic Bloomfield Track by 4WD, stopping at beautiful Bloomfield Falls. Back aboard your vehicle, head towards the beaches of Cape Tribulation, where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Step straight out from under the lush green canopy onto the golden sand and enjoy time to explore the coastal headlands, followed by lunch at a local cafe.

Step into the jaw-dropping Daintree Rainforest for a scenic walk. Estimated to be approximately 135 million years old, the Daintree is the planet’s oldest tropical rainforest. After ferrying across the Daintree River, you’ll take the Captain Cook Highway back down to Cairns, where you’ll continue to your conveniently located stay at the Crystalbrook Riley, offering easy access to central Cairns Esplanade.

Inclusions
Crystalbrook Riley (Urban Room) or similar
Breakfast and Lunch
Great Barrier Reef

Spend your final full day in Cairns exploring the formidable coral quays and marinescapes of the Great Barrier Reef. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this expansive slice of Australian ocean is one of the worlds most sought-after snorkelling destinations. Join your group aboard a luxurious Seastar Cruise ship where you will get the exclusive opportunity to visit Michaelmas Cay with all snorkelling and diving gear included. For lunch, savour a hot and cold buffet aboard before heading to your last stop at Hastings Reef.

Inclusions
Crystalbrook Riley (Urban Room) or similar
Breakfast and Lunch

Savour one final breakfast at your hotel, then check out by 10am and make your own way to the airport as your Far North adventure comes to an end.

Inclusions
Breakfast
Interested in an itinerary in reverse?
Experience an alternative route for this tour.
Highlights & inclusions
The following are included in your tour package:

Australia’s Torres Strait is renowned for its jaw-dropping vistas and wild beauty. From the vast open plains of Bamaga to the incomprehensibly beautiful shores of Horn Island and glittering waters surrounding its archipelago, the Torres Strait is the ultimate outdoor escape. Experience the thrill of soaring above its crystalline waters on an unforgettable helicopter adventure. As you take to the skies, you’ll be mesmerised by the breathtaking view of azure waters, pristine white beaches, and lush tropical islands stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Australia’s vast landscape boasts a stunning array of natural features, everything from arid deserts to tropical rainforests. In this spectacular, sprawling outback, the dense forests and Great Dividing Range have helped Far North Queensland retain a wildness unlike any other. Amongst ancient trees and coastal waters, you’ll find historic stations that have kept life in this rugged region running for generations.

Along your journey, you’ll stay at the heritage-listed Musgrave Telegraph Station – now an important roadhouse, this station served a critical function for the remote communities nearby from as early as 1886. You’ll spend an evening at Merluna Station, a working cattle ranch that offers a window into Cape York’s unique farming history.

  • Nine nights of handpicked accommodation
  • 25 meals included – nine breakfasts, nine lunches and seven dinners
  • Soar above the Torres Strait on a scenic helicopter flight
  • Travel the historic Bloomfield Track
  • Stand at the northernmost tip of mainland Australia in Cape York
  • Discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest
  • Uncover the WWII history of Horn Island on a guided tour
  • Snorkel in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef
  • Economy-class flight from Horn Island (HID) to Cairns (CNS)
  • A dedicated expert guide throughout your journey
  • Luxury, air-conditioned 4WD transport
  • All touring and national park entrance fees
Dates & pricing
No departures available
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Give our team a call on 800 0183 0572 for more tour options
No departures available
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Give our team a call on 800 0183 0572 for more tour options
Things to know

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your traveller information details in full.

  • Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete your Traveller Details form within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
  • Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 60 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
  • If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
  • Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
  • Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes’ Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise if the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
  • Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com, who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
  • For tours that allow children, the child must be 14 years or over and must share a room with an adult.
  • Children are the same price as adults.

Update 19 December 2024: Amendments & Cancellations section updated, please see below.

Please note, our 7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee and Date Change policy does not apply to Tours

  • All deposits, service fee, and payments are non-refundable.
  • Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation for credit due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, an additional service fee above and beyond the existing fees in the agreed payment schedules applies for A$300 per person will apply.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

  • Changes can be made on request by contacting the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
  • Tours pricing is dynamic and can change at any time.
  • Additional fees and fare difference may apply.
  • Changes are not permitted after your final payment date.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.
  • Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

  • Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees toward flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
  • You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).

Surcharges

  • After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
  • Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

  • You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your My Escapes.

Please note:

  • Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
  • Rooms will be made available after 3pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 10am. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request. Subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
  • Maximum room capacity (Twin Share) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.
  • All special requests, such as those regarding bedding preferences, are subject to availability and can only be confirmed upon check-in. Room assignments and bedding configurations may vary based on the destination and hotel policies, and are handled directly by the hotel staff.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation, if you choose to change; change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes.’

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.

  • Return international flights
  • Visas
  • Single supplement
  • Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
  • Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.

Baggage Restrictions

  • Passengers are permitted one piece of soft-sided baggage with a maximum weight of 15kg on tour.
  • Passengers are permitted one additional, small personal bag.

Please Note:

  • Due to the early start, it is recommended that travellers book a pre-tour stay in Cairns (at their own expense).
  • Helicopter flight details: the included helicopter flight will run for 10 minutes and has an individual passenger weight limit of 90kg. Passengers over this limit may be subject to additional charges.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Passports & Visas

  • A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
  • You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
  • A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

  • Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller. This information can be added directly to your ’My Escapes’ account.
  • Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
  • We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact tours@luxuryescapes.com so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
  • Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
  • Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
  • If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
  • Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Tour Pace

  • It’s important to note that specific activities and intensity levels may vary between different tour operators and destinations. When selecting a group tour, it’s advisable to carefully review the itinerary, activity descriptions and fitness requirements to ensure a suitable match for your preferences and physical capabilities.
    • Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
    • Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
    • Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided Tour:
    • You’ll have a tour guide with you throughout the entire trip, from start to finish.
  • Partially Guided Tour:
    • You’ll have guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different guides for different regions.
  • Self-Guided Tour:
    • You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided with detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport pre booked for you.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

  • Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities in this tour.
  • There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
  • Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins and ends at your Cairns accommodation, without airport transfers.

Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Please book your flights to arrive at Cairns Airport (CNS) before 5am on Day 1 and depart from Cairns Airport (CNS) after 10am on Day 10.

Roundtrip airport transfers are NOT included in your tour, please plan accordingly.

Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.

When travelling within Australia, please check current state/territory border entry requirements to ensure you’re eligible to travel and have completed any required permits or passes.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct, to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.

Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Important Destination Information:

Queensland

Time zone: AEST, GMT +10

Telephone: +61

Currency: AUD

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.

Language: English

Climate: Moderate to warm with an average temperature of 29 degrees.

Tropical North Queensland

Climate: Warm with low rainfall during winter (June to August) and high rainfall with balmy temperatures during summer (December to February).

  • Please note: For complimentary transfers to be fulfilled outside of arrival and departure date, all pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings must be booked through Luxury Escapes no later than 60 days before departure. After this time, any pre- or post-tour accommodation bookings made will not be eligible for complimentary transfers.
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