14 Day Cape York / Kinrara Savannah Wetlands Package
14 Day Cape York & Kinrara Wetlands Package
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Day 1 - CAIRNS TABLELANDS TO KINRARA WETLANDSItem Link List Item 1
After picking you up from the Cairns CBD your adventure begins. We’ll drive the Kuranda Range, stopping to stretch the legs and some morning tea (included) at Mareeba’s Coffee Works – known for their coffee and tea selection with homemade scones with jam and cream. From Mareeba we make our way to Yungaburra to stop and stare in wonder at the Curtain Fig Tree – one of the greatest natural sites in the Tablelands Rainforests. After a lunch in Tall Timbers (included) we set out for Kinrara. Arriving around 4pm on afternoon to Kinrara Eco Retreat you will be welcomed and introduced to the expedition team, and given a tour of the campsite. Your bags will be ushered to your respective tents with some welcome beverages. Sunset drinks and food, welcoming hospitality, and shared story will conclude your first day of adventure.
ACCOMMODATION – STUNNING GLAMPING TENTS ADJACENT TO WETLANDS (LD)
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Day 2 - KINRARAItem Link List Item 2
On Day 2 we explore the vast expanse of Kinrara Station, loading up our 4WD convoy we drive to the outer limits of the station's boundary discovering and experiencing outback life. Taking the bulk of the day, we depart mid-morning from camp, winding through dirt tracks stopping for wildlife such as kangaroos, goannas, emu, plains turkey, wild boar, wedge tail and sea eagles, plus countless cattle and horses. We explore the cattle yards, windmills, watering points, lava tubes and share an outdoor picnic beside a dam covered in water lilies. Returning to camp mid-afternoon, guests are welcome to use the Kayaks, go for a swim or a walk, or find a comfy spot to rest before sunset drinks and dinner.
ACCOMMODATION – STUNNING GLAMPING TENTS ADJACENT TO WETLANDS (BLD)
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Day 3 - KINRARAItem Link List Item 3
Today we are exploring the private spring and waterfall located within the property. You also have the opportunity to take a helicopter flight over the incredible landscape. The flight gives guests the ability to see the wetlands, flying over the crater of one of the youngest volcanoes in the area in a way that highlights just how incredible this landscape is. (Optional extra – price on application)
ACCOMMODATION – STUNNING GLAMPING TENTS ADJACENT TO WETLANDS (BLD)
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Day 4 - KINRARA TO DAINTREEItem Link List Item 4
We have an early breakfast today as we need to make our way from the outback to the rainforest to continue our journey to Cape York.
After an early lunch we board our vehicles and we head for the Daintree Rainforest. Arriving at the Daintree River we go on a Wildlife Cruise on the Daintree River (optional extra). Accommodation will be deep in the Daintree Rainforest overlooking Coopers Creek.
ACCOMMODATION IN THE RAINFOREST. (BLD)
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Day 5 - DAINTREE TO COOKTOWNItem Link
Starting the day with an interpretive walk through the Daintree Rainforest, we continue our adventure with the famous off-road Bloomfield Track. Stopping off for lunch in Cape Tribulation, we will continue onto Cooktown via the stunning Black Mountain in Kalkajaka National Park where we will stretch our legs and take in the different scenery. Arriving in Cooktown we will eat dinner at the local restaurant of your choice (at own expense).
ACCOMMODATION – COOKTOWN (BL)
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Day 6 - COOKTOWNItem Link
Our added day in Cooktown affords us a fantastic opportunity to explore a town pivotal to Australian history. After breakfast (included) we will begin our day at the James Cook Museum (optional extra), learning the fascinating history of the area. Following this our passengers will enjoy free time explore the main street followed by lunch at the Cooktown’s Gardens Cafe (at own expense). Before dinner we will take in the sunset over the Endeavour River at the Grassy Hill Lookout. Dinner this evening will be your choice of the many cafes located nearby (at own expense).
ACCOMMODATION IN COOKTOWN. (B)
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Day 7 - COOKTOWN - LAURAItem Link
Leaving Cooktown after breakfast we start our drive to Laura, with lots of destinations on the way. We stop at the Old Laura Homestead, Battle Camp Station, Isabella Falls, and after a few river crossings we arrive in Laura where we stay for the night. Dinner at the local pub with the locals.
ACCOMMODATION – LAURA (BLD)
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Day 8 - SPLIT ROCK AND QUINKEN ROCK ART – LAKEFIELD – IRON RANGEItem Link
After leaving Laura we hit the road, aiming for our destination of Iron Range National Park, making lots of stops along the way. We will see the historic Palmer River Goldfields, where many men made their millions, but many men also lost their lives. We will visit the Quinkan Rock Art site, now listed as one of the UNESCO Top 10 Rock Art sites anywhere on Earth. After a few more stops we will eventually make it to our Accommodation for the night – Cabins deep in the rainforest. After dinner guests may join our guides for an evening night tour through these ancient forests, looking for unique wildlife found no-where else.
ACCOMMODATION – IRON RANGE- UNIQUE BUSH STYLE ACCOMMODATION (BLD)
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Day 9 - IRON RANGEItem Link
Today your Guide will take you on a day of adventures where you will travel to Chilli Beach which is truly stunning with its wonderful ocean and landscapes. We also visit significant historical sites in the area from the gold times of the 1930's and the Airfield at Iron Range. We will visit the famous landmark and discover the story of Cook’s Hut. Lunch today will be at the famous Portland Roads Locals Cafe (at own expense), overlooking the sea with wonderful home cooked food including fresh fish on the menu. Then after lunch we return to your accommodation for some free time.
ACCOMMODATION – IRON RANGE- UNIQUE BUSH STYLE ACCOMMODATION (BD)
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Day 10 - IRON RANGE – MORETON STATIONItem Link
Today we follow parts of the original Old Telegraph Track - one of the highlights of Cape York and it is a great track for 4WD enthusiasts. We pass the memorial to “Toots”, a famous lady trucking character and stop at the beautiful Archer River for a lunch before our river crossing. We traverse open woodland country; pass huge termite mounds before arrival at the historical Moreton Telegraph Station.
CAMPGROUND - MORETON STATION. (BLD)
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Day 11 - MORETON STATION – FRUIT BAT FALLS – LOYALTY BEACHItem Link
Another exciting day of 4WD Driving and creek crossings until we reach the Jardine River, named after pioneering explorers to the area Frank and Alexander Jardine. “The Jardine” is the largest river on the Cape York Peninsula and renowned for crocodiles. Later we stop for lunch and a swim in the crocodile-free crystal clear water at Fruit Bat Falls.
CAMPGROUNG – LOYALTY BEACH (BL)
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Day 12 - LOYALTY BEACH – ROKO ISLAND (PRIVATE ISLAND)Item Link
Today we visit the Famous Croc Tent and walk to the TIP. We will travel through the drier savannah woodlands which will change into dense rainforest before opening up at the deserted beaches at Australian's most northern point. After taking in the spectacular views of the Torres Straits and the surrounding beaches we will have lunch at Somerset Beach, which was the home and now resting place of Frank Jardine, visit these historic graves on the beach.
For lunch we head over to visit very special family who live on a stunning beautiful private island located in the Torres Strait. Lunch today under the palm trees overlooking the beautiful blue waters - such a wonderful way to spend the day!
Dinner tonight will be at Loyalty Beach – a place to relax and take in far north Oceanside beauty.
CAMPGROUND – LOYALTY BEACH (L)
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Day 13 - LOYALTY BEACH – THURSDAY ISLAND AND HORN ISLANDItem Link
Option 1: Free Day (LOYALTY BEACH)
Take the day off from touring. Relax at the campsite, catch up on washing or read a book. The day is yours to do as much or little as you want.
Option 2: Two Island Day Trip – Thursday and Horn Island (must be pre-booked and pre-paid)
Both island tours have information and history of the past and the important part the islands played in the war and keeping Australia safe. History of the early Pearling Luggers and the part they played while admiring the spectacular and breathtaking views of the Torres Straits and its turquoise waters.
Inclusions:
- Return ferry from Seisia to Thursday Island
- Thursday Island small group tour
- Entry to the Green Hill fort and underground collection
- Return ferry from Thursday Is to Horn Is
- Horn Island small group ‘In Their Steps’ WW2 tour
- Entry to Torres Strait Heritage Museum
- Horn Island transfers
- Lunch Included
CAMPGROUND – LOYALTY BEACH (BD) NB: Lunch at own expense if free day option chosen
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Day 14 - LOYALTY BEACH – FLIGHT HOME (FLIGHTS INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE)Item Link
You guide will say their farewells at Bamaga. You will be transported to the airport to catch you flight back to Cairns. Guests will be picked up by North West Tours and transferred to their hotels, accommodations and further travel arrangements.
Sample Itinerary at Kinrara
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Day 1 - Arriving at KinraraItem Link List Item 1
After picking you up in 4WD convoy from the Cairns CBD at 9:00am or the Cairns airport from 10:00 your adventure begins. Once at Kinrara our number one goal is to get you settled in and relaxed as quickly as possible. Arriving around 4pm on Monday afternoon to MacEacherns Camp you will be welcomed and introduced to the expedition team, given a thorough safety briefing and tour of the campsite. Whilst you enjoy a refreshing Kinrara Welcome drink in our main bush pavilion overlooking the stunning wetlands, your bags will be delivered to your respective tents, welcome beverages offered, and you’ll be shown to your campsite. Sunset drinks and food, welcoming hospitality, and shared story will conclude your first day of adventure
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Day 2 - Relax and ExploreItem Link List Item 2
Tuesdays generally commences with a lazy long breakfast, guided by the weather and energy levels we work out the best order of activities. We mostly do a short to medium distance bush walk in the morning, followed by kayak in the mid afternoon. Nature is bustling out the front of camp, often many moments are taken up watching birds of prey stalk just meters from our central pavilion or your tent. Relaxation is always an option for guests and encouraged, just let us know if you want to sit an activity out or do it another time.
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Day 3 - Explore the ExpanseItem Link List Item 3
On Wednesday we tend to explore the vast expanse of Kinrara Station, loading up our 4WD convoy we drive to the outer limits of the station's boundary discovering and experiencing outback life. Taking the bulk of the day, we depart mid morning from camp, winding through dirt tracks stopping for wildlife such as kangaroos, goannas, emu, plain turkey, wild boar, wedge tail and sea eagles, plus countless cattle and horses. We explore the cattle yards, windmills, watering points and lava and share an outdoor picnic beside a dam covered in water lilies. Returning to camp mid afternoon, guests are welcome to use the Kayaks, go for a swim or a walk, or find a comfy spot to rest before sunset drinks and dinner.
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Day 4 - Meet the LocalsItem Link List Item 4
Thursday morning after an energy packed breakfast we offer a 7.5 km hike (with return walk if desired) to a secluded spring Oasis. After your hike you can cool off under the natural spa waterfall, a picnic luncheon will be served followed by a rest in the shade while listening to the spring flowing directly from the earth down a cascade of rainforest ensconced waterfalls. For the Gugu Badhun this spring is a culturally significant location, we encourage our guests to use this time to reflect and be respectful of their surroundings, we’ve been particularly encouraged not to use loud voices or yell.
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Day 5 - Back to the Big SmokeItem Link
Time for that last hike, kayak, or sleep in, and a hearty breakfast. We like to be on the road back to Cairns by 9am, this gives us ample time for a couple of final stop overs. We ask you to have your bags ready by 8:30, and we’ll come collect them ready for your return to reality. We offer a light morning tea at Ravenshoe on our return journey. We continue on to our Waterfall tour with your private guide, stopping in the hills of the beautiful Tablelands for a light lunch. We aim to have guests back to Cairns by 4:30pm. Please ensure any flights you may have booked are departing after 6:00pm on this day.
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Optional scenic helicopter rideItem Link
Subject to the weather and availability we can organise a private flight over the wetlands and the crater. You'll also see the surrounding cattle stations. It's a spectacular and not to be missed.
Custom Experiences
Kinrara Expeditions offers all manner of custom and bespoke experiences for you and your group. Some of the events and experiences we do at Kinrara include:
- Corporate / Executive Retreats - Get off grid and truly connect
- Art Retreats - for established and budding artists
- Weddings, birthdays and milestone celebrations
- Music Writing Camps
- Dedicated Birdwatching and Nature Camps - with globally recognised conservationists and experts
- Science Week @ Kinrara
- Partnering with the Gugu Badhun to offer cultural interpretation and indigenous community education and engagement
- School and University Camps- outback emersion
- PHD Writing Sprints
- Host cultural and heritage events
- Meditation and Coaching Retreats
- Fitness and Sports Conditioning Camps
- Location for photography and film sets
- Variety Bash host - Australia's longest running and most famous charity motoring event
- Horse and mustering camps and schools
Contact us today if you're interested in planning a unique adventure for your group.
Memories that last a lifetime
Reviews from our guests
Fabian - Expedition 1905
'Thank you for transporting us to a magical place. Timeless, honest, sometimes harsh but always beautiful. Waking up to the raw Australiana wilderness and working station life is a once in a lifetime experience.' Your welcoming smiles, and personal yarns made us feel as if you have welcomed us into your home.
'Thank you for transporting us to a magical place. Timeless, honest, sometimes harsh but always beautiful. Waking up to the raw Australian wilderness and working station life is a once in a lifetime experience.' Your welcoming smiles, and personal yarns made us feel as if you have welcomed us into your home.'
Fabian
Expedition 1905
The Henry Family - Expedition 2004
Thank you so much for hosting our ‘city slicker’ family in this magical place we feel more ‘Australian’ for the experience. We’re grateful for the jovial company and good chat, the kayaking, the opportunity to meet the horses, the chance to learn about a working cattle station, the birdlife, delicious food and sunsets.
Thank you so much for hosting our ‘city slicker’ family in this magical place we feel more ‘Australian’ for the experience. We’re grateful for the jovial company and good chat, the kayaking, the opportunity to meet the horses, the chance to learn about a working cattle station, the birdlife, delicious food and sunsets.
The Henry Family
Expedition 2004
Fabian - Expedition 1905
'Thank you for transporting us to a magical place. Timeless, honest, sometimes harsh but always beautiful. Waking up to the raw Australiana wilderness and working station life is a once in a lifetime experience.' Your welcoming smiles, and personal yarns made us feel as if you have welcomed us into your home.
"It’s a surreal landscape of ink-black basalt frozen into swirls and wrinkled whirls and submerged lava tubes covered in canary-yellow algae that look like coral bommies. Water bubbles up from a spring beside Kinrara Homestead a few kilometres away at a rate of more than 10 megalitres an hour, and the wetlands form the headwaters of the Burdekin River. As clear as a glass of gin, the lake is crocodile-free and perfect for swimming and snorkelling."
The Henry Family - Expedition 2004
Thank you so much for hosting our ‘city slicker’ family in this magical place we feel more ‘Australian’ for the experience. We’re grateful for the jovial company and good chat, the kayaking, the opportunity to meet the horses, the chance to learn about a working cattle station, the birdlife, delicious food and sunsets.
"Hectares of grass dotted with livestock and gum trees in a palette of parchment, cinnamon and sage-green, while in front is a miniature rainforest with an emerald canopy of umbrella palms and fig trees. At its centre, a clear spring gushes from an unseen source into a shallow, three-tiered waterfall between banks stacked with lush ferns. Cattle. Outback. Rainforest. Waterfalls. The combination seems incongruous and remarkable."



