A journey to Cape York takes a lot of planning, but once you’re there, the opportunity for discoveries are endless.

Channel your kids’ natural inquisitiveness and spend your days exploring the region’s national parks. Traverse rugged 4WD tracks, tackle treacherous river crossings, then pitch a tent at a free bush campsite at the end of each action-packed day.

Stop off in Cape Melville National Park, about halfway between Cairns and the Tip, to discover a dramatic landscape of granite boulders, sandstone escarpments and inland dunes. Nearby, Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park's striking sandstone hills, river systems and coastal estuaries make it a haven for fishing, birdwatching and nature photography. 

In fact, Cape York abounds in rare creatures and colourful wildlife. This road trip is your opportunity to turn the kids into junior nature photographers by challenging them to keep track of the animals you encounter along the way. Expect to cross paths with shy marsupials, giant flightless birds, fluorescent green tree frogs and much more as you venture deep into the wilderness.

Just remember to follow all warning signs and stay croc-wise near the water. If in doubt, don't swim. 

2. Walk in the footsteps of the world's oldest surviving culture

Aboriginal Australians have called Cape York home for more than 40,000 years. Don’t miss the opportunity to uncover the rich stories and traditions that give this region its unique character.

Take the Bloomfield Track north from Cape Tribulation to Wujal Wujal to explore Wujal Wujal Falls, a sacred site of the Kuku Yalanji people (it’s an easy 30 minute return hike).  Next, head to nearby Bana Yirriji Art Centre where local Aboriginal artists exhibit works inspired by the surrounding rainforests, waterfalls and mountains.

Further north in Cooktown, see legends of the Dreamtime brought to vivid life on the richly painted Milbi Wall along the town’s wharf (Milbi is the Aboriginal word for ‘story’). The wall tells the creation stories of the Endeavour River and Cooktown, as well as the story of the Guugu Yimithirr People and their first contact with European settlers.

For art of a more ancient variety, head west to Laura to encounter Aboriginal art in its original 20,000-year-old ‘gallery’ on a Jarramali Rock Art 4WD Tour. This is one of the most significant Indigenous rock art galleries on earth - and access to the site is only available via an exclusive four-wheel drive adventure or helicopter tour with Jarramali. It also offers the unique chance to roll out a swag and camp on Country, learning more about the traditions and stories of the Kuku Yalanji People as you take in the rugged landscapes around a campfire. By far one of the most unique experiences you can share as a family. 

3. Discover hidden beaches

The coastline of Cape York is lined with remote beaches, windswept headlands and secret coves. Drive an hour north of Cooktown and you’ll find yourself at Elim Beach, a little-known stretch of coastline that’s as beautiful as it is secluded. Picnic under the shade of the paperbark trees that dot the shoreline, then take a drive up the beach to the majestic Coloured Sand cliffs. If you’re new to beach driving, check out these beginner’s tips.

Further north, round off your trip to the Tip with a detour to Frangipani Beach, the northernmost beach on the Australian continent.  Watch the sun set over the Torres Strait and set up camp for the night - the nearby rainforest campground is free.

4. Cool off in wild swimming holes

While the beaches of Cape York might be look-but-don't-swim, there are plenty of serene spots to cool off with a refreshing dip - none more wild and spectacular than those along the Telegraph Track.

Fruit Bat Falls is a spring-fed flow that cascaedes into a broad, expansive natural lagoon. Take some time out to scrub off that red dust you've accumulated along the road so far and soak in the scenery from one of the most beautiful natural pools in Australia.

Twin Falls and Eliot Falls are also accessible by 4WD, and all are best visited in the dry season. 

5. Stand at Australia’s northernmost edge

You've made it to the Tip! It's impossible not to stop and marvel at rugged, unfiltered nature as you stand on the edge of Australia. 

Commemorate reaching your destination with a family snap in front of the iconic ‘You Are Standing at the Northernmost Point of the Australian Continent’ sign. Then, head to The Corrugation Bar at the nearby Punsand Bay campgrounds for a celebratory beer (or lemonade).

It's best to visit this landmark at low tide when it’s just a short walk across the sand to reach the sign. The walk at high tide is over rocks and may be tricky for kids to navigate.

Ready to hit the road to Cape York? Here are our best tips to help you - and your family - prepare.