Cape York Pajinka Tour

Cape York 4WD expedition

Cape York, with room to feel it.

A 14-day, guided run from Cairns to Pajinka via river country, rainforest tracks, swimming holes and the stories in between.

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12 July 2027

Max 12 travellers

Cairns — The Courtyard, Esplanade

From $5,450 pp

Australia's great frontier journey—without the rush, guesswork or convoy logistics.

Why this signature journey

Big on the right things.

The memorable parts of a journey should feel easy. That is why every detail—from the group rhythm to the inclusions—is designed to leave space for the moments you came for.

01

The real route to The Tip

From Lakefield and the Old Telegraph Track to the Jardine and Pajinka, this is a journey with substance.

02

Built for comfort in wild country

Purpose-built 4WD travel, camp setup, quality bedding, water and daily snacks take the edge off the logistics.

03

More already included

Park fees, Pajinka permits, the Jardine ferry, Thursday Island and Cairns airport transfers are all part of the plan.

04

Your people, not a convoy

A limited group and experienced guide mean there is room for a story, a swim and the spontaneous good stuff.

The journey, in chapters

The route is part of the reward.

Day 1–2

Lakefield, Laura

Meet your crew in Cairns, then north via the Cooktown Development Road into Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park — lagoons, lotus lilies and our first campfire under a very big sky. Special aboriginal

Day 3–5

River country

Cross the Wenlock and Archer rivers, swim in crystal-clear spring-fed holes and roll into the heart of the Peninsula's savannah country.

Day 6–8

The Old Telegraph Track

Tackle legendary sections of the OTT — Gunshot Creek optional for the brave — with fruit bat falls and green oasis swims along the way. Cross Cockatoo Creek. Cystal Clear waterfalls.

Day 9–11

Jardine River, Bamaga, Punsand Bay, Pajinka and the Torres Strait, Thursday Island

Cross the mighty Jardine by ferry, explore Mutee Head and the WWII history of the northern peninsula. The walk to the sign at the top of Australia. Photos, cheers, and that quiet moment when it sinks in.

Day 12 -13

Chilli Beach, Lockheart River

Search for the Green Python

Day 13–14

Cooktown

Day 12

Lions Den Hotel, Cape Trinulation

Free field guide

The Cape York travel-ready playbook

The reassuring guide for your run to The Tip: what the tracks feel like, what to pack and how to make the most of every swim stop.

Bring a soft bag rather than a suitcase. It is kinder to the vehicle, simpler to store and far easier to manage across a two-week journey.

Quick-dry clothes, a wide-brim hat and reef shoes will earn their place repeatedly. Cape York's best swims often have uneven or rocky entries.

On 4WD days, keep water, sunscreen, a light layer and your camera close by. Everything else can stay packed until camp.

The Old Telegraph Track is a highlight because you are travelling with an experienced crew. Enjoy the view, ask questions and leave the vehicle decisions to the professionals.

Give your clothes a quick shake before coming inside and keep a small laundry bag for wet gear. Simple routines keep camp life pleasantly easy.

Routes in remote country can adjust to weather and conditions. A flexible plan is not a compromise—it is how the best swim or sunset detours happen.

Send me the guide

Useful travel notes, no hard sell.

What is already sorted

More time to be there.

Clear inclusions mean you can plan with confidence and leave the day-to-day details in capable hands.

13 nights camping & lodge mix

All meals with a gourmet touch

Purpose-built 4WD transport

Expert guide & storyteller

All park fees & Jardine ferry

Swimming hole & waterfall access

Please check the full tour page for exclusions, FAQs and the complete booking terms.

The next right step

Ready when your curiosity is.

Reserve with a 20% deposit today, or talk with Sharon or a Tour Leader before deciding. Either way, there is no need to figure it out alone.

View the complete tour details, map & FAQs