Cape York Peninsula

A journey to the very top of mainland Australia will reward you with wild and rugged national parks, dense tropical rainforest, a rich cultural and historical heritage, remote beaches and islands and an abundance of unique and rare wildlife. The Cape York Peninsula is way beyond the beaten track and the ideal destination for those seeking the ultimate adventure.

There are two roads that connect Cooktown, the southern tip of the Peninsula, to Cape York, Australia’s most northern township. One of the most sought-after routes along the Peninsula is the mighty Old Telegraph Road, popular for 4WD enthusiasts and true adventurers. 

Your Cape York adventure is calling!

Begin your journey in Cooktown and discover the rich historical and cultural significance of the region. It was here that Captain James Cook and his crew “settled” upon mainland Australia when striking the reef during the HMS Endeavour’s 1770 east coast voyage. Cooktown boasts an array of museums, historical monuments, galleries and plentiful walking trails, gardens, and beaches just waiting to be explored.  

As you travel north along the Peninsula you will be greeted by plentiful friendly roadhouses, tropical rainforest, national parks, secluded beaches, lagoons, waterfalls, creeks, towering headlands with fantastic views of the coastline and in simple terms, the feeling that you truly are in the middle of nowhere!

• Take in the views of the Coral Sea from the towering peaks at Cape Melville National Park. 
• Embark on a sunset river cruise whilst spotting for Crocodiles.
• Explore the region’s abundance of Aboriginal Rock Art. 
• Take a dip in Keatings Lagoon.
• Hike through Mount Cook National Park or venture to the historic Palmer Goldfield.

As you reach the very tip of the cape, you will find yourself in Cape York. The township sits upon the most northern point in mainland Australia and it is here that you can take a ferry to explore Thursday Island, Horn Island and the Torres Strait.

In Cape York, there are a number of accommodation options including motels, eco tents, camp grounds and even resorts.

Book a scenic flight from Cairns or Cooktown and visit Cape York for a day.