Great Tropical Drive
Australia – The Great Tropical Drive, QLD
The Great Tropical Drive in Queensland, Australia takes travelers over a distance of just under 350km from Cairns to Townsville. While this route can easily be done in a day, if you’re traveling in your campervan, RV or motorhome, you should allow as much time as possible to explore as many of the detours as possible.
This drive allows you to see a wide variety of sights from beaches lined with palm trees to spectacular lush rainforests and the famous Australian outback. Some of the best attractions along the way include the Great Barrier Reef, the Undara Lava Tubes, Hinchinbrook Island and the Daintree Rainforest. Depending on the discovery trails you choose, you can experience a wide variety of sights, food, wine, culture, wildlife and local heritage. This drive is as flexible as you need it to be. If you have two weeks at your disposal, you can fit in all the trails along the way. If you only have a few days to enjoy this drive, then you may want to plan which trails you would most like to experience.
Optional Trails and Activities along the Way
The Great Barrier Reef can be accessed from multiple points including Cairns, Townsville, Mission Beach and Port Douglas. So, whether you want to enjoy this wonder first, halfway through or to end your trip off with a bang, you can add it to any point of your itinerary.
The Girringun National Park is home to the Wallaman Falls. What makes it so special is that it is the longest single drop waterfall in the country and the park itself is a pleasure to explore.
The Millaa Millaa Falls might not be as high but they are the most photographed in the country. The Millaa Millaa Falls can be accessed by sealed road and the pool around the base of the falls is suitable for swimming.
In Daintree Village, you can sign up for a crocodile, wildlife or bird spotting cruise. If you have always wanted to know what crocodile meat tastes like, this is the perfect place to give it a try! For those who have already tried and enjoy this succulent delicacy, it’s time to get your fix.
The Hinchinbrook Heritage Trail is ideal for those who would like to learn more about the history of Ingham and, if you want to find out about the gold mining frenzy that once was, simply make your way to Ravenswood – or rather what’s left of this ghost town. While you are in the area, don’t forget to stop to see the giant carpet snake sculpture (Gubulla Munda) nearby Plantation Park.
Of course, if you’re looking for something a bit more thrilling, then perhaps you’ll enjoy a Canopy Tour at Cape Tribulation, a night tour of Daintree Forest, Zorbing or quad biking at Daintree Station or even sky diving at Mission Beach.
The drive can quite easily be enjoyed in just a few hours of driving but, if you have ventured to this very special part of Australia, why not make the most of your trip by trying something new or enjoying your favourite activities along the way?