Best time to travel to Cape York is during the dry season from June to October. During the wet season the road is impassable and takes some time to dry out and become navigable. Four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended and a good knowledge of the area is required as there are few road signs. Most hire cars are not permitted further north than Cooktown.
The shortest road distance from Cairns to Cape York is 952kms, but side trips to Cooktown, Weipa and the national parks are recommended. You can return to Cairns by plane, or by boat alongside the Barrier Reef.
Daytime temperature average around 30degC but take a warm top for cooler nights. Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, sunhat and good footwear are essential.
