Kinrara National Park is an oasis in an unsuspecting landscape. The ecosystem supports exceptional biodiversity and history, from the youngest Volcano eruption in Australia and resulting ancient rainforest, unlimited water supply, Indigenous, and European Agricultural Settlement to modern-day rural life. A rich tapestry of life unfolds, ensuring an immersive and transformative experience for all.
Upon arrival at Kinrara, guests will be picked up in a 4WD convoy from either Cairns CBD at 9:00am or Cairns airport from 10:00am to begin their adventure. After reaching the MacEacherns Camp around 4:00pm on Monday, guests will be introduced to the expedition team, given a safety briefing and a tour of the campsite. They can enjoy a refreshing Kinrara Welcome drink in the main bush pavilion overlooking the stunning wetlands, while their bags are delivered to their respective tents. The evening will conclude with a shared story, sunset drinks, and food.
Tuesdays generally commence with a lazy long breakfast, followed by a short to medium distance bush walk in the morning and kayaking in the mid-afternoon. Guests can choose to relax or skip an activity if they wish.
On Wednesday, the guests will explore the vast expanse of Kinrara Station, going on a 4WD convoy ride to the outer limits of the station’s boundary. Guests can experience and discover outback life, stopping for wildlife such as kangaroos, emus, goannas, wild boar, wedge tail and sea eagles, and countless cattle and horses. They will explore the cattle yards, windmills, watering points and lava and share an outdoor picnic beside a dam covered in water lilies. After returning to camp, guests can use the kayaks, go for a swim or walk, or find a comfy spot to rest before sunset drinks and dinner.
Thursday morning after an energy-packed breakfast, guests will be offered a 7.5 km hike (with a return walk if desired) to a secluded spring oasis. After the hike, they can cool off under the natural spa waterfall, and a picnic luncheon will be served followed by a rest in the shade while listening to the spring flowing directly from the earth down a cascade of rainforest-ensconced waterfalls. This spring is a culturally significant location for the Gugu Badhun, and guests are encouraged to reflect and be respectful of their surroundings, and particularly encouraged not to use loud voices or yell.
On the last day, guests can choose to go for a last hike, kayak, or sleep in, followed by a hearty breakfast. The guests will be on the road back to Cairns by 9:00am, and there will be a couple of final stop-overs on the way. A light morning tea will be offered at Ravenshoe on the return journey. The tour will continue to the waterfall tour with a private guide, stopping in the hills of the beautiful Tablelands for a light lunch. The guests are expected to be back in Cairns by 4:30pm, and any flights they may have booked should be departing after 6:00pm on this day.
Guests are treated to an unparalleled camping experience in the private tents that are equipped with comfortable deck chairs. From the balconies of these tents, travelers will be able to bask in the stunning views of the lake and observe the surrounding wildlife in action. The tents are arranged in a way to cater to the guests’ preferences and provide ultimate comfort during their stay. Inside, the tents are fitted with rechargeable lights, head torches, bedding, towels, and ample storage space for guests’ personal belongings.
The communal shower and eco-toilet facilities boast a unique architectural design that is both simple and captivating. The open fire heats the water, while gravity from overhead tanks ensures a steady flow of hot water for guests to enjoy. The toilets are truly a luxury, as they are self-composting, waterless, and powered by solar energy. Natural wood shavings are used to maintain the cleanliness and freshness of the facilities, making them a true delight for all who visit.
Travelers visiting outback cattle stations are in for a treat when it comes to dining. At these stations, meals are enjoyed family style around one or two large communal tables. With no distractions from televisions or mobile devices, conversation flows freely and guests often find themselves sharing stories and laughing together. The central pavilion offers various spaces for travelers to unwind and soak up the stunning views, whether it be reading a book, playing a board game, or working on a puzzle. A refreshing drink is always within reach, whether it be a hot cup of coffee or tea, or a zesty gin and tonic to complement the breathtaking sunset.
All prices are per person twin share and unless otherwise stated, are in Australian dollars, are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. For room upgrades, additional nights or guest pricing please contact us.
Important Information:
Before booking, it is important to note that the expeditions host a maximum of 12 guests each week, with some weeks already sold out. The team conducts fastidious cleaning after each expedition to ensure a safe and healthy environment. This is the great outdoors and you’ll be outdoors most of the time. Each group has private accommodations in a romantic, natural setting.
We highly recommend guests take out travel insurance prior to traveling
Each Expedition kicks off on a Monday, please contact us for availability.
1. If cancelled and paid in full, a credit will be issued and must be used within 24 months of original date of travel, honouring original rate booked.
2. If cancelled and deposited only, a credit will be issued and must be used within 24 months of original date of travel, balance of which will be at the new seasonal rate.
