Driving Time between Cairns, Queensland and Camooweal, Queensland

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Queensland Roadtrip: From Cairns to Camooweal

If you're planning a road trip from Cairns, Queensland to Camooweal, Queensland, get ready for an adventure! You'll be treated to breathtaking landscapes, charming country towns, and plenty of interesting stops along the way. Here, we have highlighted three different routes and their travel times, to help you pick the best option for your road trip.

Option 1: The Flinders Highway (Distance: 1,200 km, Travel Time: 14 hours)

The Flinders Highway is a scenic inland route that takes you through the heart of the Outback. You'll start in Cairns, climb up the Atherton Tablelands, and cross through cattle country and vast open plains before reaching Camooweal. This journey will take around 14 hours, so it's best to start early and take plenty of breaks!

Places to Stop:

  • Hervey Range Heritage Tea Rooms: A charming spot for morning tea or lunch, with lovely gardens and homestyle cooking.
  • Hughenden: A historic town with plenty to see, including dinosaur fossils at the Flinders Discovery Centre and the quaint Grand Hotel.
  • Porcupine Gorge National Park: A natural wonderland with walking trails, stunning views, and camping facilities.
  • Prairie Hotel: A quirky pub in the tiny town of Prairie, known for its famous 'fender burgers' and eclectic decor.

Option 2: The Gregory Highway (Distance: 1,040 km, Travel Time: 12 hours)

The Gregory Highway runs from Cairns to Mount Isa, passing through mining and agricultural areas along the way. It's a shorter route than the Flinders Highway, but still offers plenty of scenic views and interesting stops.

Places to Stop:

  • Undara Lava Tubes: An otherworldly landscape of ancient lava flows, with tours, accommodation, and dining available.
  • Mount Surprise: A small town that's big on adventure, with gem fossicking, hot springs, and caves to explore.
  • Cobbold Gorge: A hidden oasis with boat tours, camping, and accommodation, set in a stunning gorge and surrounded by rugged mountains.
  • Drovers Camp: A fascinating glimpse into the history of droving and bush life, with guided tours, demonstrations, and overnight stays in rustic cabins.

Option 3: The Overlander's Way (Distance: 1,450 km, Travel Time: 17 hours)

The Overlander's Way is a longer route that connects tropical Cairns with the frontier town of Camooweal, via the Northern Territory. It's a diverse journey that takes you through rainforests, savannah, and desert landscapes.

Places to Stop:

  • Kuranda: A charming rainforest village with markets, wildlife attractions, and scenic railway and cableway rides.
  • Undarra Lava Tubes: Same as Option 2.
  • The Three Ways Roadhouse: An Outback icon that's been serving travellers for over 50 years, with fuel, food, and basic amenities.
  • Mataranka: A tropical oasis with thermal springs, swimming holes, and a historic homestead.
  • Mary Kathleen: A ghost town that was once a thriving mining community, with eerie ruins and a fascinating story to tell.

No matter which route you choose, driving from Cairns to Camooweal is an unforgettable adventure. Don't forget to pack plenty of water, snacks, and a sense of curiosity!