Tropical Far North Queensland Loop (7 Days)

Experience the ultimate Cairns road trip itinerary on this 7-day Tropical Far North Queensland campervan hire adventure. Explore lush rainforests, Great Barrier Reef islands, cascading waterfalls, and palm-fringed beaches as you loop from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, through the Atherton Tablelands, and up to Port Douglas. With short driving distances, world-class nature, and plenty of camping options, this itinerary is perfect for travellers seeking a relaxed but adventure-packed FNQ getaway.

Cairns Road Trip Highlights

• Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns or Port Douglas
• Drive the scenic coastal road to Cape Tribulation
• Explore ancient Daintree Rainforest boardwalks and beaches
• Chase waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands
• Discover Port Douglas’ dining, markets, and Four Mile Beach
• Spot wildlife including cassowaries, turtles, and reef fish

Cairns Road Trip Route Overview

Direction: Loop from Cairns through the Daintree, Cape Tribulation, Atherton Tablelands, and Port Douglas, returning to Cairns.

Approximate segment distances & driving times:

• Cairns → Cape Tribulation: ~140 km / 3.5 hrs (including ferry)
• Cape Tribulation → Port Douglas: ~85 km / 2 hrs
• Port Douglas → Atherton Tablelands: ~140 km / 3 hrs
• Atherton Tablelands → Cairns: ~90 km / 1.5 hrs

7-Day Tropical Far North Queensland Campervan Itinerary

This FNQ campervan hire loop keeps daily driving manageable while leaving plenty of time for swims, hikes, and reef trips.

Day 1: Cairns Arrival & City Sights

Pick up your campervan in Cairns. Stroll the Esplanade Lagoon, explore the night markets, and enjoy local seafood. Overnight in a central holiday park.

Day 2: Cairns → Cape Tribulation

Head north along the Captain Cook Highway, taking in stunning coastal views. Cross the Daintree River by ferry and venture into the rainforest. Stop at Jindalba Boardwalk, Marrdja Boardwalk, and Cape Tribulation Beach. Camp at a local eco-park or national park campground.

Day 3: Cape Tribulation Exploration

Spend the day exploring remote beaches, taking guided night walks, or trying reef tours from Cape Trib. Keep an eye out for cassowaries. Overnight in Cape Tribulation.

Day 4: Cape Tribulation → Port Douglas

Return south through the Daintree and stop at Alexandra Lookout. Spend the afternoon in Port Douglas — shop at the Sunday markets (if timing aligns), relax on Four Mile Beach, and enjoy the marina dining scene.

Day 5: Port Douglas → Atherton Tablelands

Head inland via the Mossman–Mount Molloy Road to the Atherton Tablelands. Explore the Waterfall Circuit (Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Ellinjaa Falls), crater lakes, and local produce stalls. Camp near Lake Tinaroo or Yungaburra.

Day 6: Atherton Tablelands Exploration

Enjoy a slower day visiting curtain fig trees, coffee plantations, and hiking short rainforest trails. Optional swim in Lake Eacham or Lake Barrine. Overnight in the Tablelands.

Day 7: Atherton Tablelands → Cairns

Drive back to Cairns with a final stop at Barron Falls or Kuranda Village. Return your campervan and enjoy a farewell dinner in the city.

Camping, Parks & Facilities

• Holiday parks: Found in all major towns — great for powered sites, showers, and pools.
• National park campgrounds: Book ahead for Cape Tribulation and Daintree sites.
• Powered vs unpowered: Choose powered sites if your campervan has limited battery capacity.

When to Go & Safety Notes

• Best weather: May–October for dry, cooler conditions.
• Stinger season: November–May — wear stinger suits when swimming in the ocean.
• Wildlife: Drive carefully at dawn/dusk to avoid animal strikes.
• Road conditions: Some Daintree and Tablelands roads can be narrow or winding — drive cautiously.

What to Pack for a FNQ Road Trip

• Light, breathable clothing + a warm layer for cooler Tablelands nights
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+, reef-safe sunscreen
• Insect repellent and basic first aid kit
• Reusable water bottles and cooler box
• Microfibre towels, swim gear, and stinger suits in season
• Head torch, power bank, and spare charging cables

Quick FAQs

How many days do I need for this loop? 7 days is ideal, but you can extend with extra nights in Cape Tribulation or the Tablelands.

Is it suitable for first-time campervan travellers? Yes — short driving distances and well-maintained roads make it beginner-friendly.

Can I swim year-round? Yes, but follow stinger season safety from November–May and swim at patrolled beaches or freshwater spots.

Do I need to prebook campsites? Highly recommended during school holidays and peak dry season.

Plan & Book Your Campervan

Ready to start your FNQ adventure? Use our Campervan Finder to compare FNQ campervan hire options from 100+ brands. Check availability for your Cairns road trip itinerary and lock in the best deal today.