This section covers one of the most remote and exciting parts of Australia. It falls naturally into two parts. First, there is the coastal stretch north of Cairns, taking you up to the Cape Tribulation region. The national park here has superb tropical scenery and beaches. Further north is Cooktown, one of the most historic spots in the land. From here you can visit Lizard Island, which is renowned for diving on the reef.

The second section covers the huge remote vastness of the Cape York peninsula. The roads here are difficult to say the least: they involve river crossings and are only passable during the drier season – approximately June to October: even then, they should only undertaken by experienced 4WD drivers. The best way to see this region is on an organized road tour or sea cruise from Cairns. Don’t for one moment imagine that this will be your ordinary package tour: it will be a real adventure.

Distances are vast, so allow time to cover all the best places to visit. It’s more than 800 km from Cairns to Cape York (and then you have to get back again). The tours and cruises last around seven days, and it makes sense to allow a few easy days for recovery in Cairns afterwards.

TRANSPORT

There are regular coaches up the coast from Cairns as far as Cooktown, try www.cairnsbuscharters.com. From June to November there’s even a twice weekly bus up into the York Peninsula. To explore the coastal region you’ll need a car.