8 day cairns to darwin motorcycle tour

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8-Day Cairns to Darwin Tour Package: Join the ultimate Australian Outback Adventure!

This fully guided, all-inclusive adventure motorcycle tour package takes you deep into the real Outback through rugged terrain, historic towns, and spectacular natural landmarks few ever get to see. From cairns to Darwin, you’ll catch unforgettable sunsets and swap stories under the stars with your fellow riders at remote bush camps and classic Aussie stays, cold drink in hand.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, ticking off a major bucket list ride, or just want to experience Australia in its rawest form, this 8-day journey delivers the perfect balance of challenge, mateship, and freedom on two wheels. Strap in, this is a ride you’ll never forget.

Departs Cairns on Saturdays at 8.30 am and you will ride into Darwin around 3.30 pm the following Saturday.

A 2,500km journey across The Great Savannah Way and Gulf Country. 

Highlights

  • 2,500 kilometer ride
  • Historic Cooktown
  • The fishing port of Karumba with its world famous ‘Morning Glory’ cloud formations
  • Lawn Hill and Litchfield National Parks
  • Lorella Springs Fishing Camp in the Gulf of Carpentaria
  • Katherine Gorge
  • The Lost City Rock Formation
  • Darwin Accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1 – Cairns → Cooktown
Depart CYMCA HQ at 8:30 AM
Ride coastal and rainforest trails via Daintree and Cape Tribulation
Cross rivers and wind through Wet Tropics tracks
Overnight in Cooktown, steeped in explorer history

Day 2 – Cooktown → Karumba
Ride west into Gulf Savannah country
Cover remote red-dirt expanses en route to the Gulf of Carpentaria
Arrive in Karumba, famous for vivid sunsets and Morning Glory clouds

Day 3 – Karumba → Lawn Hill National Park
Follow outback trails inland, surrounded by wide open space
Reach Lawn Hill, a natural oasis known for its emerald waters and escarpments
Camp or stay near the park

Day 4 – Lawn Hill → Barkly Tableland Region
Ride through cattle country and vast Gulf savannah
Connect with sections of the Savannah Way
Overnight near NT border or remote roadhouse

Day 5 – Barkly Region → Katherine
Enter the Northern Territory proper
Visit or pass near Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), a stunning gorge system
Stay overnight in the Katherine region

Day 6 – Katherine → Lost City / Litchfield NP
Head north via rugged trails and tropical bush
Explore The Lost City, with its towering sandstone pillars

Overnight near Litchfield National Park

Day 7 – Litchfield National Park Adventure
Ride through Litchfield’s waterfalls, plunge pools, and magnetic termite mounds
Enjoy mix of technical riding and scenery stops
Final bush camp or lodge night under the stars

Day 8 – Litchfield → Darwin
Cruise into Darwin via forest trails and quiet backroads
Roll into town by mid to late afternoon
Farewell beers, dust-covered high-fives, and well-earned rest

Inclusions

Cape York Motorcycle Adventures tour prices are all-inclusive packages. Once you leave Cairns, your only extra expense might be for a cold drink, or a souvenir.

  • CFMOTO 800MT (Full License required)
  • All meals
  • Fuel
  • Accommodation and camping equipment
  • National park permit fees
  • Support vehicle and a non-rider seat
  • Riding gear can be supplied if you do not have your own (helmet, boots, knee guards, body amour, pants and jacket or jersey)

What's Not Included

Motorcycle damage costs – riders are responsible for any damage incurred during the tour
Alcohol & soft drinks – available for purchase along the way
Pre/post tour accommodation at the Pacific Hotel Cairns (optional add-on)

Check-in Details

Required Documents & Preparations

  • A valid motorcycle license (you must present this upon
    check-in).
  • A credit card with sufficient limit to cover the security deposit
    for the motorcycle.
  • A signed waiver and indemnity form (if not already
    completed online).

Other Recommendations
Ensure you’ve packed all the required items from the packing
list provided. Double-check essential riding gear and personal
items.
Arrive hydrated and well-rested for the pre-tour briefing and
safety checks on Day 1.
If you’ve rented additional gear, ensure it is properly fitted
during the check-in process.
Bring cash for on-the-road purchases, as some remote areas
may not accept cards.

What To Bring

At Cape York Motorcycle Adventures, we provide all essential riding gear, including helmet, boots, pants, and jackets. You don’t need to stress about bringing your own. That said, if you have personal gear you’re more comfortable in, we recommend you bring it along. We also provide a detailed packing list for personal items like clothing, toiletries, and handy extras to make your ride more comfortable.

Optional Comfort & Convenience :

  • Snacks or protein bars
  • Lightweight rain gear
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Camera or GoPro
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Bring cash for remote area purchases

Most importantly, pack your sense of adventure and be ready to get dusty!

What You Need To Know

If you’re licensed for a motorcycle (current and valid learner or open licence), competent in traffic, and have the courage and confidence to try new styles, you’ll be fine to ride.
Our guides are here to help you along the way, whether they teach you a new technique or challenge the skills you have. Almost every type of off-road condition will be encountered (except snow!).

All riders must comply with Cape York Motorcycle Adventures’ rules and regulations, sign an indemnity form, and be licensed for a motorcycle. The tour operates in remote areas with dangerous wildlife, deep waters, and other road users, and the operator reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to road, weather, operational, or safety considerations. The operator has a zero tolerance policy and reserves the right to refuse any rider at any time, including for medical or behavioral concerns. The operator is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage to personal belongings or for personal injury, accident, or illness, however caused.

We do operate in bad weather, and it is the last call to cancel due to weather conditions. The operator reserves the right to change motorcycles, support vehicles, staff, and tour dates at any time.
Check all of our Terms and Conditions here.

Insurance

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FAQ's

Q. What level of riding experience do I need?
You’ll need to be a confident off-road rider with a valid motorcycle licence. The terrain includes rainforest trails, creek crossings, sand, and rugged outback tracks—challenging but incredibly rewarding!

Q. Do I need to bring my own motorcycle?
Nope! We provide GASGAS EC 350F motorcycles, fully maintained and adventure-ready. Fuel is included too.

Q. Is food provided on the tour?
Yes, all meals are included. We cater to most dietary needs—just let us know in advance.

Q. What if the weather is bad?
We ride in most conditions—it’s all part of the adventure! Safety comes first, so any itinerary changes due to weather will be made at the operator’s discretion.

Q. Is alcohol included?
No, alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are not included, but you can purchase them at stops along the way.

Q. Can I bring a pillion passenger?
This tour is designed for solo riders only due to the technical nature of the terrain.

Q. What happens if I damage the bike?
Riders are responsible for any damage to the motorcycle. We recommend being mindful of the terrain—and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Q. Can I join if I’m travelling solo?
Absolutely! Many of our riders come solo. You’ll leave with a new crew of mates and memories that last a lifetime.

Q. Is there mobile reception along the way?
Reception is limited or non-existent in many remote areas—so it’s a great time to disconnect and fully embrace the ride.

Disclaimers

Terms & Conditions
Riders must hold a valid motorcycle licence and sign a waiver before the tour.
This is a remote-area adventure, hazards may include wildlife, water crossings, and rough terrain.
Itinerary changes may occur due to weather, road conditions, or safety concerns.
Zero-tolerance policy applies—participation may be denied for medical, behavioural, or safety reasons.
CYMCA is not liable for personal injury, lost items, or disruptions to individual travel plans.
Tours run in most weather—cancellations are at the operator’s discretion.
We reserve the right to substitute motorcycles, vehicles, staff, or routes if required for safety or logistics.

$7,095AUD

This tour is available departing from Cairns and riding to Darwin. A 20% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking and the balance is due 30 days prior to departure. As with all hire vehicles, we require a deposit of $2,500 to be made before departure. This money is refundable upon the safe return of your hire motorcycle. All prices are in Australian (AUD) Dollars and include 10% GST.

To avoid additional online booking fees, please book direct at +61 (0) 427 590 221 or info@capeyorkmotorcycles.com.au

© Cape York Motorcycle Adventures 2026

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