My Travel Tips And Itinerary To Go Around The Globe

15 breathtaking waterfalls near Cairns – Atherton Tableland

24 September 2023

How wonderful can a waterfall be? Honestly, the sound of the cascade dropping a big amount of water into the pool underneath, and around only the music from Mother Nature. Picture this and imagine having 15 of them within a few minutes or hours apart.

What a dream isn’t it? Well, don’t worry you are awake and you are going to explore all the 15 best waterfalls near Cairns to cool off into these clear refreshing and relaxing waters. Atherton Tableland will become one of your favourite spots to keep always in your heart, also you will be far from Saltwater crocodiles (maybe), sharks and the deadly Irukandji jellyfish.

Lucky as I was, I lived for almost a year only 200 km south of Cairns, this gave me the chance to discover thousands of places to cool off during the months preceding the wet season and the wet season itself. For this reason, I consider myself an expert in this area and here I am sharing the most breathtaking waterfalls in Far North Queensland and the short 5 days itinerary that you might want to consider to relax into this stunning nature.

rebecca Tg, kangaroo and me in australia

Hey, thanks for visiting my blog!

Yes, that’s right, I’m an Italian living around the world. If you want to know how I ended up spending almost 3 years in Australia, come and check out my beautiful story! Maybe you would want to wander around this breathtaking country and don’t know where to start.

15 best waterfalls near Cairns

Tropical Queensland offers many beautiful things, especially through nature, is home to the Great Barrier Reef and the oldest Rainforest in the world. Unfortunately, this coast isn’t the safest to swim in; nevertheless, the prosperity of waterfalls and swimming holes surrounding Cairns and the Atherton Tableland will take you to paradise without the need for an endless journey to reach them.

Here you will find the 15 best waterfalls near Cairns, most of them where you can swim others just offer stunning lookouts to enjoy the mist created from the power of the falls.

Josephine Falls

Expect to have a lot of fun here. The big smooth granite boulders formed a natural slider, challenging to climb but so easy to slide down. You will love Josephine Falls. An hour’s drive from Cairns and very easy to reach as the falls are only a 1.2-kilometre return walk. There are few pools where you can soak up and others you are not allowed to swim in.

Windin Falls

This is my second favourite waterfall I have seen in this area. The majestic Windin Falls. The hike is approximately 11.5 km return and trust me you will love the walk, the landscape, the view and then the water. You will be above the waterfalls where you can have a full view of the Park’s mountains and you would never want to leave that almost private pool you are in.

Millaa Millaa Falls

15 best waterfalls near cairns millaa millaa

Probably one of the most famous waterfalls in Australia, Millaa Millaa. In less than 100 km you can reach this spot and start the circuit loop of waterfalls in the Atherton Region. Cold water and mostly in the shade if you want to escape the heat is a good spot for a picnic. Quite crowded but if you want to escape it, you know what you need to do: wake up early and beat the mass!

Ellinjia Falls

15 best waterfalls near cairns ellinjaa falls

In my opinion, the best of the Cairns Waterfall circuit is Ellinjia Falls. Despite the fewer people stopping here, this picturesque falls is in the dense lush Rainforest, surrounded by beauty and good energy. Swimm in the pool and reach behind the falls the rocks shelf where you can sit and just listen to the magic sound of the water. It is a very short walk from the car park and the path can be very slippery when wet.

Zillie Falls

Oddly even a loop can have an end, but only because Zillie Falls happens to be the last stop of the “Cairns Waterfall Circuit”. Only 5 minutes drive from Millaa Millaa, this waterfall can almost be your private spot – not everyone is keen to do the walk -. You can reach the main pool in as little as 35 minutes walk, make sure you have good hiking shoes as it can be muddy and very slippery. Enjoy the swim under the 30-meter cascade.

Big Millstream Falls

15 best waterfalls near cairns big millstream

I know, I said 15 best waterfalls near Cairns; but I am giving you the best spot to see and often missed by travellers. Millstream Falls are 2 hours away from Cairns, but once you have finished your Atherton Tableland waterfalls loop why not drive extra kilometres to see even more breathtaking cascades? This waterfall is touted as “Australia’s Widest Single-Drop Waterfall” and trust me it is pretty impressive when you see it with your eyes. Sadly it is not safe to swim – as you have no access to the base of the pool – but the short walk from the parking will take you to a stunning lookout. Wanna swim? Don’t miss the next one!

Little Millstream Falls

15 best waterfalls near cairns little millstream

Yes, that’s right the Big Millstream Falls and only a few kilometres away: the Little Millstream Falls. I fell in love with these waterfalls as soon as I parked my car. Might have helped the golden hours just before sunset. The scenery here is a bit different from the rest of the waterfalls near Cairns. This is because as we are more inland, eucalyptus trees, oaks and other vegetation give this area a feeling you are no longer in Far North Queensland. Yet you are, so make sure not to miss these waterfalls!

Tchupala Falls

wallicher falls 4 — _{Photo We Seek Travel}

Tchupala Falls and Wallicher Falls share the same walk trailhead, which split in a Y-junction near the beginning of the trail. Quite unpopular as waterfalls near Cairns but if you love the adventure and you are chasing every waterfalls, why would you miss this 2 in 1 opportunity? It will be a little tricky to find the exact spot to start the trail, but if you drive a few kilometres after the Mamu Tropical Skywalk on the right side of the road you will find a small pull-over space – it’s just 2.5 kilometres earlier than the next waterfalls on this list.

Nandroya Falls

Perfect place for swimming and taking good pictures. Nandroya Falls is one of the 15 best waterfalls near Cairns, you don’t want to miss it. Only within a 3-kilometre walk from the parking at, you will be facing the 50-meter cascade in the dense Tropical forest of North Queensland. Keep your eye out for a Platypus.

Serendipity Falls

15-waterfalls-near-cairns- — _{Photo David Taylor}

Palmerston Highway is for sure home to a few waterfalls, Serendipity Falls, Nandroya and Tchupala are very close to each other and still part of the Cairns’s best waterfall. Serendipity Falls is for sure another hidden gem, I came across this fall just driving and spotting this fairy-tailed lushing tropical corner from the car. I pulled over and I could see just as little as 5 meters of the falls, it was just very easy to see.

Mungalli Falls

Atherton Tableland is just an unbelievable place, I couldn’t be convinced by how many waterfalls there can be in one area until I saw it with my eyes. The 15 best waterfalls near Cairns are mostly covering this region and Mungalli Falls has just a special story. It is the only privately owned World Heritage-listed waterfall in Queensland. Of course, you can visit for free but make sure to preserve the nature around you and stay on paths and platforms all the time. Also don’t forget to have brunch at Mungalli Creek Dairy Cafe.

Tully Falls

TULLY GORGE FALLS LOOKOUT WALK 0209 — _{Photo We Seek Travel}

Tully Falls National Park is one of the wettest areas of Australia. Expect to drive around 2 hours 15 minutes from Cairns to reach this falls. Once here you will first come up against the lookout over the gorge and finally reach Tully Falls from the top, overlooking the Jurassic landscape. The top pool falls descend in the range of 180–210 metres into the 293-meter deep gorge. Unfortunately, most of the water has been diverted to the Hydro Power Station and dammed. As a result, the falls flow only during the wet season.

Murray Falls

Clear water, fresh air, big boulders and a gorgeous waterfall dropping into the main rockpool. The surroundings and the many Ulysses butterflies (the blue butterfly of North Queensland) feel like a dream come true. Murray Falls is another picturesque Waterfall near Cairns, southern of Atherton Tableland and one of my favourite spots for camping, or just to have a picnic during the day with friends.

The area is very well maintained and has all the basic amenities that you will need. Few walking trucks, easy and enjoyable at all times, will let you discover more about the Girramay National Park and get you to a viewing platform overlooking the falls via a rainforest walk. Make sure to swim only in designated areas as the currents are strong and dangerous.

Mena Creek Falls

Located within Paronella Park, Mena Creek waterfalls can be seen from the Park or the platform across the river. Paronella Park offers many experiences such as walking the bridge over the falls, guided day and night tours and camping facilities. Whichever experience you’d like to do – see the spot for free or join the Park fees – make sure not to swim in the water, crocodiles are active here.

Wallaman Falls

Last but not least, my favourite waterfall in all of Australia so far! The number one of these 15 waterfalls near Cairns is definitely my first love. I have visited three times and I can never say no to another visit at this stunning place. Not so near to Cairns, if you consider European distances, but 287 km from Cairns city you can reach Wallaman waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Australia. From the lookout and the bottom of the hiking track to reach the main pool there is a 268-meter height difference, it does take 3 hours return but it’s worth it.

Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfalls are surrounded by World Heritage rainforest and have a cool camping spot offered by Queensland National Park. Book at least a night here and wake up surrounded by wallabies, turkeys and much more wildlife.

Best time to visit the 15 waterfalls near Cairns?

You might be wondering, “What is the best time to visit waterfalls near Cairns?” Here are some more clues for you to understand better this area’s climate.

Northern Queensland is also called Tropical Queensland, for the simplest reason: it is situated between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn. The Tropical climate of North Queensland is characterized by two distinct seasons, warm temperatures and low rainfall during the winter and higher temperatures and higher rainfall during the summer. These seasons are more commonly known as the “dry season”, extending from May to October and the “wet season” starting around November until April.

15-best-waterfalls-near-cairns-wallaman-falls

Both these seasons, give the magic feeling of being in this part of Australia. The 15 waterfalls near Cairns show themselves differently during the year.

During the wet season, the waterfalls will provide a more dramatic scene, as the rain can be heavy and so it will increase the amount of water raging over the falls. Also, the high temperature and the humidity between November to April mean refreshing water at the bottom of the waterfalls’s pool. Though I have to say, it can be a bit dangerous to swim in most of them as the current is much stronger due to the higher amount of water; not to underestimate the flooded roads that you might need to drive to reach them.

From May to November the area of Cairns – and the Tropical Queensland – is in the dry season offering lower temperatures and less(or none) rainfall and humidity. This doesn’t necessarily mean no water around the area. For sure the larger rain-fed waterfalls might have less water but most of the 15 waterfalls near Cairns will have great flow also during the drier months. Swimming and driving to arrive there will be easier and you can chill around the area without being worried when the next storm is gonna come.

wild thorsborne trail hinchinbrook island12

I have visited these places both during the wet season and the dry, and I loved them the whole time. Some swimming pools at the bottom of the falls have less water but you still manage to take a dip and enjoy the surrounding evergreen landscape.

Maybe consider visiting North Queensland and these waterfalls around May or June, just after the wet season has finished or in November/ December just at the beginning of it.

BONUS: The best 15 waterfalls near Cairns 5 days itinerary

I can’t just drop this post of one of my best places in the whole world without a quick 5 day itinerary. Consider it as an extension of a “15 days road trip from Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation” and make this journey unforgettable…

Day 1 – Drive to Wallaman Falls, situated in the vast Girringun National Park. Stop at the few lookouts on the road and the main one to observe the majestic falls 268 meters high. Take some water and snacks with you and start your hiking to be even more amazed by this beauty from the bottom. Camp in the beautiful area close to the waterfall and sit in silence to spot wallabies and a thousand stars above you.

Day 2 – Drive two hours to reach Murray Falls and enjoy a little swim in the designated area, the water temperature is amazing and there is just the perfect balance between sun and shade. Go for a walk or two to explore the area and learn more about it. Use the picnic area to have lunch and make your way to Mena Creek Falls. Enjoy the lookout without the Paronella Park fee, or make it your next camping spot and be delighted by the tour they offer. Another option is to drive a few more km and go to camp at Mena Creek Reserve a dedicated wildlife sanctuary and regeneration site.

Day 3 – A short drive of 30 minutes only, will take you to one of the areas that have a few waterfalls near Cairns one next to the other. The first stop is the beautiful Tchupala Falls, followed by Nandroya Falls only 3 minutes distance and Serendipity Falls 8 minutes away. This will take you the whole morning so pack your lunch and put some hiking shoes and swimsuit on. Just in time for an after-lunch (or lunch), make your way to Mungally Cafe and enjoy the landscape in this wonderful spot. Three minutes driving or 30 minutes by walk you are at the cute little Mungalli Falls.

Yes, I know busy day, but trust me drive 1 more hour to see the sunset at Tully Falls. Don’t worry I got you cover for the night too. Only 20 minutes driving a beautiful bush camping is waiting for you: Koombaloomba National Park. Enjoy it!

Day 4 – I know what you are thinking now. “You said the best waterfalls near Cairns and I am almost 200 km away from it.” Well, I am just slowly making your way up – or down. Wake up in this beautiful place and get ready to get closer to the Cairns waterfalls circuit. But first… 50 minutes of driving and you will see the vastity of big Millstream Falls together with little Millstream where you can have your morning swim. Short drive to Millaa Milla Falls and together enjoy the loop waterfalls: Ellinija and Zillie Falls. Sleep at Millaa Millaa caravan Park.

Day 5 – Getting very close to Cairns now and I guess you are not complaining at all after all the stunning 5 days itinerary of waterfalls near Cairns I just put up. Here you are going to see one of my favourites: Windin Falls, a morning walk is just the best thing to start the day, especially when you can encounter the gorgeous animal of this area, the Cassowary.

Love the surroundings, the view, the top pool and everything here. Maybe pack your lunch if you are keen to stay in this breathtaking Park. Our last stop of this quick 5 day itinerary of the waterfalls near Cairns is Josephine Falls where you can have some fun sliding over the rocks.

Remember this!

On the way, you will find thousands of more waterfalls, water holes, lakes, creeks and so much more. If you have time and you are not in a rush with your plan: Stop there!

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10 tips for the best road trip around australia

Top 10 tips for the best road trip in Australia

24 July 2023

After living and travelling in Australia for two years, I put together 10 top tips to plan a road trip around Australia. In this article, you will understand more about the country you are going to explore. The importance of considering these different tips will help you not only to save more money on the road but also, to realise the things you might need to be aware of and how to manage them the best way.

Would you like to know how am I able to live and travel Australia, almost stress-free? Check my “Live in Australia with a Working Holiday Visa” and start your journey in this wonderful country.

10-tips-best-road-trip-australia-salt-lake-sa

Top 10 tips to plan the best road trip in Australia

1 – Don’t over plan

Travel itself is something for sure that gives us beautiful memories, pictures and moments; takes us away from our ordinary life and lets us discover the vastity around us. But let’s first consider the actual journey.

Australia is the planet’s sixth-largest country, offering rural landscapes, deserts, tropical forests, thousands of beaches, mountains and also big and developed cities. So if you have a limited time to visit this country, let’s say a couple of weeks or over a month, have in mind you won’t be able to see every corner.

Driving is for sure the best way to go around, this will let you be independent of tours or buses for example, but at the same time expect to skip some sight on the road.

2 – Check your car before hitting the road

It might sound silly but a good service to your car before starting the road trip around Australia is one of the most important among the top 10 tips to drive around Australia.

Public roads in Australia exceed 810,000 km in length; meaning that if you are planning to do your road trip from North Queensland, Cairns, to South Australia, Adelaide, you will likely hit the 5.000km passing by the main cities and so exploring the East Coast.

Believe me, you don’t want any problems with your car, you rather have a smoother drive in the safest and most comfortable conditions.

3 – Get lost

The number one tip was don’t over plan your road trip, as the following advice is: Get lost on the road around Australia.

It will happen when driving from one destination to another, that you will cross many little towns, national parks and other sights you haven’t pinned for your road trip. If you like the vibes around you, follow your gut and have a look; grab a coffee, have a little walk in the park or go to see where that lookout sign will take you to.

10-tips-best-road-trip-australia-get-lost — _{View from Marrickville Terrace in NSW after I got lost on the road to a National Park}

Most of the time you won’t regret it and also you will have extra memory and a good or bad place to share with others.

4 – Pack light, but smart

Most of the people I have met on my journey in Australia, especially on the road or who are living outside the big cities, have one thing in common: to travel light and avoid useless clothes or accessories.

My Australian road trip experience taught me for sure I own more than I need and use, and also, how to manage best what to bring with you on the road.

10 tips best road trip australia pack light

If you like to travel wild and not planning of having fancy dinners at fancy restaurants, most of your time you will spend it dressed comfortably as possible, in pyjamas or hiking clothes. Don’t overpack if this is going to be your kind of road trip in Australia.

5 – Carry enough water and food

Depending on the route you are going to take for this road trip around Australia, consider crossing remote and very remote areas, especially in Western Australia and Northern Territory.

Before leaving big cities or villages make sure to have enough water and food. Sometimes you might not come against any living life for hundreds of kilometres.

The most brilliant option is to buy a 20l water tank and fill it with drinkable water, without the need to spend extra money and purchase unnecessary and single-use plastic. If your car or van doesn’t have a fridge, opt for nuts snacks or fruit.

6 – Plan your fuel stops carefully

For the same reason as point 5 of the top 10 tips to plan the best road trip around Australia, another very important step you need to take care of is the fuel stop during the journey.

10-tips-best-road-trip-australia-remote-petrol-station

Not only for the fact that you might not see gas stations for enormous distances but also in the Outback the petrol price can be very much higher than in non-remote areas. Same as for the water, consider carrying with you a 20l Jerry can for extra petrol to have as a backup in case you forgot to fill up your tank before leaving the last petrol station in the next 300 kilometres. Also, once at the petrol station, take advantage to fill up or buy a cooking gas bottle.

Read for these distance signals too.

7 – Be prepared

Get familiar with the driving, the roads and the rules of this country. Australia’s fine and the consequences can be very different from your own country and trust me you don’t wanna experience it.

10-tips-australia-road-trip-Drive-on-the-left-australia — Photo from: Australiayourway.com. Give attention to the road signal

Be aware of custom control between borders, some kinds of food can’t enter another State without being in quarantine, so if you are close to certain borders look for signs that advise you to “Eat it or bin it” and do as suggested. If needed, find a safe area and have your lunch instead of throwing the fresh food away.

Get familiar with basic skills for car emergencies: changing tyres, checking and refilling oils and coolant, adjusting tyres pressure (if you are planning off roads) and others.

8 – Book your special tours in advance

If you are doing this road trip in Australia during any Public or School Holiday and you are going to visit the main sights such as Withsundays, Uluru, Fraser Island or others make sure you book with large advance the Tour you were looking for. Sometimes booking, at least, 3 weeks ahead can save your plan and also some money. The same will be for some accommodations in famous National Parks or busy Hotels or Hostels.

10-tips-best-road-trip-australia-view-of-whitsundays

9 – consider sleeping for free

Are you in a very low-budget mind sent for this on-the-road adventure? No problem, in Australia you can sleep for free with various options. Make sure to download your phone Camper Mate App. This wonderful app will allow you to have a big view of the many camping options, but mainly to know where free Rest Areas or Park Areas are. The app also gives you the option to see free hot showers, BBQ and much more, this way you will save lots of $$$. Check out my last weeks between Victoria and South Australia, when I spent 0$ on accommodations.

10-tips-best-road-trip-australia-slepping-for-free-in-national-park — Free camping in West McDonnel National Park.

Other options, for long terms travellers, are: Trusted Housesitter, Couch surfing, Working Away, Adopting a backpacker and more.

10 – Use the best phone coverage and satellite phones.

Australian phone coverage can be really low or zero when travelling the remote areas. The desert, forest sometimes the coast will leave you with no chance to use your internet data.

Consider buying a SIM card with the best service provider. Number one is for sure Telstra, even though can be very expensive is the only one that allows you to use your Network in more places than others. Just to let you know, there are more than many areas where even this Network doesn’t work.

So if you are worried about the need to stay connected with the rest of the world during this road trip, rending a satellite phone can be your best choice.

You are now ready to plan your own road trip around Australia, these ultimate 10 tips for planning the best way to do it will definitely help you to go through the first steps.

Have you already experienced travelling on the road in Australia? What are the important things you do before planning a road trip in this country? Let me know in the comment below, will be very helpful for me but especially for the other readers.

If you are starting to plan your road trip around Australia, I hope my top 10 tips will be your main guidelines for the unforgettable adventure you are about to start.

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live-in-australia-with-working-holiday-visa

How to live in Australia with a Working Holiday Visa and make the most of this amazing journey

20 November 2022

“The rescuers Down Under” was the first approach I had with Australia, as a Disney lover but mainly as a big dreamer since I was little, this cartoon let me fantasize about my adventure in this faraway country. But wild landscapes, huge waterfalls, the red outback desert and all the different animals were just a slice of the big cake of what living in Australia means.

Growing up I could face better the reality of this massive country and my big interest in knowing more and adventuring around, made me decide to live in Australia through a Working Holiday Visa for at least a year. In fact, right now, I am holding a 2nd Working holiday visa and living the dream Down Under.

live-in-australia-on-a-working-holiday-visa-4wd-rooftop — _{The first car I ever owned and I}

Working Holiday Visa Down Under

In the last few months people I know and others I don’t, have started to send me so many messages: How I could come to live in Australia? Which Australian city was the best to start the journey? and finally What is the best visa if I want to work and travel Down Under? How can I apply for the fantastic Working Holiday visa?

Since all the information I needed wasn’t easy to find and the overwhelming feeling when I was planning and sorting out all the paper, got the best, I decided to help anyone who’s dreaming of experiencing Australia in the easiest and smartest way, by giving you all the information’s about this visa: how to apply for the Working Holiday visa, which requirements you will be asked, what are the conditions once you are in Australia and a lot more.

So sit tight and feel the dream coming closer and closer to the awakening point, because yes, Australia is becoming reality and you will love the journey.

My first Working Holiday Visa is unforgettable, I grew up so much and I lived and visited beautiful places. Here’s Dunk Island in Tropical Queensland

I’ve been travelling and working for 8 years, but I do it moving through my passion, my belief and my profession. Willing to make them my lifestyle and to help people with their needs too.

If you want to know my mission and who I am why don’t you check here to know more about me?!

Australia Working Holiday Visa 417 details

The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) gives you the ability to live in Australia for up to 12 months, travel as you please and work for the same employer for up to 6 months. Also, during this year, you are allowed to study for 4 months, without the need for a Student Visa, and to leave and re-enter the country as many times as you want. You can benefit from up to three of these 417 WHV for a total of 36 months in the Kangaroo Land.

Keep in mind that when your Working Holiday Visa gets granted you have a full year to enter the country and from the day of your entry, your Visa will start. But let me tell you, don’t overthink, book that flight and come join the huge backpacker community on this side of the world.

Australia Working Holiday Visa 417 requirements

Conditions that apply for this specific Visa are quite easy to understand and here’s a list for you to know, in the quickest way, whether you’re eligible or not:

Being outside Australia when applying for the first Working Holiday Visa 417
Being aged between 18 and 30 years old (35 for some countries). That means your visa application has to be done before your 31st birthday but you will be able to enter the country on your 31st; as long as the year between the granting of your visa didn’t pass.
You can’t have dependent children that accompany you in Australia during your stay
You are holding one of these passports: Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.
To be able to support yourself economically while you are here; so you might need to show you hold at least AU$ 5.000
Have 510 AU$ / 287 £ / 330 € for the fee of your Working Holiday Visa application.

Make sure you have all the required documents and others, here is the official Home Affairs website to help you with all the papers you need to provide for your first Working Holiday Visa 417 application.

live-in-australia-on-a-working-holiday-visa-bondi-beach — _{Bondi Beach}

Working Holiday Visa 462

Depending on your Passport mainly, the Working Holiday Visa subclass 462 is probably your fit; these are some of the requirements:

Hold a Passport from Argentina, Austria, Chile, China, People’s Republic of, Czech Republic, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Peru, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, USA, Uruguay, Vietnam
Education requirements
Letter of support from your government of origin (unless you’re from the U.S.)
Evidence of functional English
You can not apply for a second-year work and holiday visa

How to apply for the Working Holiday Visa 417

The Australia Home Affair website will be your safe space to do the application in an easier and faster way. Create your online account and look at the bottom right for the APPLY call to action button, from there you will need to fill in the spaces, answer the easy questions and send the application through (if you believe you don’t have all the necessary documents, save your progress and get through another time without problems).

Avoid agencies if you can, as they overcharge for something so easy to do. Instead, if you don’t like paperwork or you don’t understand the process, try to see if in your community someone has already done the Australia WHV experience and they are keen to help you out. I’m realising with time that people can be very helpful and keen to offer their assistance to some good matter as beautiful experiences are.

live-in-australia-on-a-working-holiday-visa-sydney-view — _{The view from the flat I used to live in North Sydney}

Why you should use a Working Holiday Visa

When I finally make the decision to leave Europe to go on an adventure to Australia I did a very deep research about which Visa I should use. Considering not only the fact I could travel in the Kangaroo country but also thinking to have a working experience on this side of the world. So, in October 2018 I applied for my first Working Holiday Visa 417 for Australia.

My Visa got granted in less than 2 weeks and at the end of January 2019, I was on a one-way-only flight to Sydney.

Why do so many backpackers come to Australia with a Working Holiday Visa?

Follow me on Instagram to see my journey in Australia

The answer is many, if you read about the conditions for the Visa 417 application they seem quite reasonable for a 12 months experience. With this Working Holiday, you will have enough freedom to be able to travel the whole country if you want – and if you have a lot of money too – as you are not forced to work, in fact, you can travel throughout the duration of the Visa.

Some of the reasons why you should apply for the Working Holiday Visa if you are eligible:

Travel freedom
Working where you want and if you want
Meet a lot of new people that are sharing the same adventure as you
Search for a potential Sponsorship Visa if your dream is the stay in Australia
Save money, spend money, repeat
Have “a quick” trip to Asia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands and the closer locations
Live the wildlife and the many different animal species
Visit some of the best places in the world
Deep dive into the amazing Australian culture
Experience the amazing feeling of Solo travel
Extend your Working Holiday visa for a total of 3 years

live-in-australia-on-a-working-holiday-visa-why — _{First Hostel I stayed in Sydney. Jolly Swagman}

Extending your Working Holiday Visa 417

I bet you will love the experience and I believe you are thinking about how you can extend your time in this awesome country, well don’t worry, cause there is a solution to this question too. Fortunately, Australia allows Working Holiday Maker to extend their Visa, not for two but for three years; meaning you can stay up to 3 years holding this unbound visa which enables you to be quite free, to travel and to make money as you desire. Nonetheless to live Australia’s adventure.

To do this you will be required to do 88 days (or 167 days on the 2nd WHV) of specified work in one of the following industries:

tourism and hospitality in northern or remote and very remote Australia (from 22 June 2021)
plant and animal cultivation in regional Australia
fishing and pearling in regional Australia
tree farming and felling in regional Australia
mining in regional Australia
construction in regional Australia
bushfire recovery work in declared bushfire-affected areas only (after 31 July 2019)

live-in-australia-on-a-working-holiday-visa-banana-farm — _{Break be like in a banana farm: resting on a Banana’s tree shade over a banana’s leaf}

Even though it might sound more difficult than actually is, I assure you that starting your journey to Australia on the Woking Holiday Visa will be one of the best desition to take.

If you are overthinking about doing this big step to live your life fully because you are in a comfort zone or you are too scared to act despite your understanding of the fact that “you only live once” and you should make the most out of your life, you have here my witness. You will read about my first Working Holiday Visa and how and why I decided to come back after 2 years; after reading both I can figure you applying for the visa straight away.

So enjoy the reading and the adventure. Any extra help you will need or questions you have, I will be happy to support you in the comment below.

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Eat like a local in Rome – top 10 restaurants and street food to experience delicious traditional Roman food

6 Comments / 14 November 2022

On your way to Rome, or already there, and you need help choosing where to eat avoiding tourist traps? You happen to be in the right place because I am going to give you the names of the top 10 restaurants and street food shops in Rome, where you can eat like a local and experience traditional Roman food that you will remember forever.

When you think about Rome suddenly you imagine yourself surrounded by famous sights, cobblestones (Sampietrini) streets and you figure to be immersed into one of the most historical cities in the world, within almost 2800 years since its foundations; known for the endless monuments, churches and museums to visit.

Eat like a local in rome skyline — _{Photo by Pixabay}

But the capital city of Italy is not “only” history and monuments, the food has big importance if you are visiting for the first time, nonetheless if you are in Rome for the 10th time. That is why I decided to share with you the best tips, as a Roman, on how to eat like a local in Rome and which are the top 10 restaurants and street food shops you don’t want to miss.

How to eat like a local in Rome

Eating like a local in Rome does not mean necessarily staying far from the city centre, in fact, your main goal will be only to avoid the tourist trap; as most of the top 10 restaurants to try traditional food will be within the city centre.

Don’t forget some important “rules” on how to eat like a local in Rome:

Don’t order Cappuccino with your meals: this is exclusively a morning beverage.
Consider having a street food lunch style while getting lost on the beautiful streets.
Avoid the tourist traps in the easier way: no pictures menus, no food on display and no high prices.
Not only eat like a local but consider eating with locals by having a late lunch, around 1/1.30 pm and late dinner circa at 9 pm.
Take your time to order, give them time to cook and take the time back to enjoy the food.

Eat like a local in a Restaurant

Lucky enough to have been raised in one of my favourite cities so far and moreover to have spent 5 years of my life in a hospitality High School in Trastevere – the heart of the city from my point of view. These helped me grow up my culinary love for traditional Roman food and here is when I started to search for the top 10 restaurants in Rome.

10-top-restaurants-eat-like-a-local-in-rome

Finally, after almost a decade since I finished my studies, I am able to share with you some of the best places to eat like a local in Rome. By creating this I had the chance to compare my top 10 best restaurants and street food choice with my friends and family, doing a survey and realised that most of the places we have chosen are the same and so these will be for you a little treasure for your journey in Rome.

By locals with love.

Felice a Testaccio

Since 1936, this “fine dining” Trattoria, da Felice a Testaccio, in the heart of one historical neighbourhood of Rome, delights everyone with freshly prepared traditional roman dishes. It is a restaurant you can’t miss to try. Every time I am back home, I book a table here to make sure I will eat the perfect “welcome back” meal.

Speciality: Tonnarelli cacio e pepe. Despite being my favourite traditional Roman dish, here at Felice a Testaccio the finishing process of adding the Cacio and Pepe mix will happen at your table, right under your nose. A good way to start enjoying your food, don’t you think?

Budget: €€ between 20-40 € per person.

Where: Testaccio, in Via Mastro Giorgio, 29.

Opening time: Monday to Friday from 12.30 to 15.30 and from 19.00 to 23.30.

Il Duca

Minutes away from Piazza Trilussa, in the beautiful Trastevere; il Duca restaurants offer a very peculiar rustic style environment and quality for the choice of its best and fresh ingredients. The traditions and the passion for the food are, since 1988, the key of this family business and their recipes are handed down from generation. Here you can be sure to have some of the best traditional Roman food.

Speciality: Spaghetti alla Carbonara is their best-selling due to the use of Amatrice Guanciale and the DOP Pecorino Romano. Il Duca also prepares daily homemade pasta and 30+ hours of Sourdough with the best Italian flours, so make sure to try one of these or even both.

Budget: €€ between 30-50 € per person.

Where: Trastevere, Vicolo del Cinque, 56.

Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday from 18.30 to 00.00, Sunday from 12.30 to 15.30 and closed on Monday.

Cesare al Casaletto

If you are in Rome to eat like a proper local and getting to avoid tourist traps at the same time, this is the perfect Trattoria for you. Located only a few tram (number 8) stops from Viale Trastevere, Cesare al Casaletto offers a menu that ranges the traditional Roman food, a good amount of seafood dishes and finally the proper pizza Romana: thin with a crunchy crust and light as the dough is left leavened to perfection.

Speciality: Make sure you order ‘Polpette di bollito’ (stew meatballs) and ‘Crochette di melanzane all’arrabiata’ (hot eggplants croquettes) you will love the explosion of flavours in your mouth. Don’t be afraid to try also any other fried dishes such as the battered mozzarella and ‘Fiore di zucca fritto’ (anchovies zucchini flower) or the ‘Filetto di baccala’ (battered cod).

Budget: €€ between 20-40 € per person.

Where: Monteverde, Via del Casaletto, 45.

Opening time: Thursday to Tuesday from 12.45 to 15.00 and from 19.45 to 23.00. Closed on Wednesday.

Meo Patacca

Da Meo Patacca Osteria is situated in one of my favourite Piazza in Trastevere’s narrow streets. In this building traditions, cinema, arts and people gathered to create the beautiful vibes this place still has after its boom during the Dolce Vita age (’50s and ’60s). The different halls inside the restaurants, the waiters dressed in ‘800-era clothes and the professional musician playing every night the typical Roman and Napolitan songs will let you enjoy not only the food but the experience itself.

Speciality: The best way to start your meal is for sure with antipasto, so opt for the ‘Meo Maxi’ (cheese, cured meat, bruschetta, vegetable in oil and a hot treat Chef’s choice. The main dishes are so tasty too, so any of them will be a win.

Budget: €€ between 20-40 € per person.

Where: Trastevere, Piazza dei Mercanti, 30.

Opening time: Monday to Sunday from 19.00 to 23.00 and Saturday/ Sunday from 12.30 to 15.00

Lo scopettaro

Emerged as one of the best authentic restaurants in Rome, lo Scopettaro, is situated in one of the beautiful neighbourhoods of the Capital City; here most of the best traditional food can be eaten by locals and like a local (if you are visiting).

Lo Scopettaro was born in 1930, initially as a broom shop; but funny story: the shop quickly turns into a trattoria when the artisanal’s wife cooked for the husband a tasty pasta with beans and the smell was so inviting that suddenly she started to have more and more guest enjoying this simple, yet traditional food.

Dare to try this typical Roman Trattoria, kept simple and unique.

Eat-like-a-local-in-rome-lo-scopettaro — _{Photo by LoScopettaro / Beans in crockpot}

Speciality: Carciofi (artichokes) alla Romana, cicoria ripassata (sautèè Chicory) or Rigatoni alla Pajata are some of the best dishes here. If you are not alone, order different dishes and share to be able to try different things.

Budget: €€ between 20-40 € per person.

Where: Testaccio, Lungotevere Testaccio, 7.

Opening time: Monday to Sunday from 12.30 to 14.45 and from 19.30 to 22.45.

Eat street food like a local in Rome

To eat like a local in Rome you shouldn’t be considering only the authentic restaurants, trattoria and osteria but eating like a local in Rome – said from the local that I am – means as well, to experience the street food that the Capital City offers.

This is why in the second part of “Eat like a local in Rome”, I decided to include some of the best places to enjoy Roman traditional street food.

Eat-like-a-local-in-rome-street-food — _{Photo by Viator}

Here are just 5 of the best places I have been eating lately in Rome, but these five are definitely the must-try original or simple street food. You will be delighted with the richest flavours connected by the strong traditions and the everyday study to make better recipes with innovative techniques; to please everyone with simple, seasonal and quality ingredients.

Trapizzino

During my last year spent in Rome, before becoming an ex-pat in 2014, I was working in a restaurant in Trastevere. The crazy weekly hours, the many covers from breakfast till dinner time and the non-stop production make me feel tired and enthusiastic at the same time. I was only 20 years old and working under lots of stress was a misunderstandable emotion, but I had so much energy that during my break I was able to ride my bicycle from Trastevere to Testaccio (10 minutes) and reach this new original business which just opened and that from day one showed to be a winning idea.

Trapizzino is this tremendously amazing idea from Stefano Callegari, which had the power to enclose two traditional things and create a unique “street food”. A triangular pizza bianca slice, freshly made with lievito madre and stone ground flour, stuffed with your favourite traditional – roman and Italian – sauce.

Eat-like-a-local-in-rome-trapizzino-street-food — _{Photo by Scattidigusto}

Speciality: My weakness for eggplant is a big thing, I can eat them every day in any different way; so definitely my favourite Trapizzino will be the “Parmigiana di Melanzane”. Tasty and vegetarian options are also Burrata and scapece zucchini or pumpkin, almond and Pecorino cheese.

Budget: 5€ is the standard price for a Trapizzino and 2€ for a Suppli.

Where: The first Trapizzino opened in Testaccio, following a few more openings not only in Rome but in Milan, Turin, Trieste, Florence and New York.

Testaccio, Via Giovanni Branca 88
Ponte Milvio, Piazzale di Ponte Milvio 13
Trastevere, Piazza Trilussa 46
Piazza Bologna, Piazzale delle Province 9
Mercato Centrale, Stazione Termini Via Giovanni Giolitti 36
Piazza Risorgimento, Be.Re Via Vespasiano 2

Supplì

From 1979 Supplì intend to create a new way of fast food, known these days as “street food”, producing freshly made traditional delicatessen. The captivating smell in the heart of Trastevere will definitely capture you from the closest tram stop. Here you will face plenty of options to choose from for your takeaway food; pasta, pizza, roasted and fried food.

Speciality: Obviously you can’t go to Supplì and not have at least one of their tasty and rich supplì, Cacio e pepe or Classico are my favourites.

Budget: € starting from as little as 2€ for a supplì.

Where: Trastevere, Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 137

Opening time: Monday to Tuesday from 9 to 17 / Wednesday to Saturday from 9 to 21.

Antico Forno Roscioli

Antico Forno Roscioli has this strong goal of satisfying Roman’s palate, so get ready to eat like a local in this Bakery situated 1 minute away from Piazza Campo ‘de Fiori.

The original old furnace structure dates back to Rome in 1824, but the Roscioli family bought it in 1972 and every day since then, they make sure to give locals and tourists also the best products. Gathering traditions and evolutions, the family, is focused on using the best selections of ingredients and on applying – when needed – new techniques over the old ones in order to please every customer.

Eat-like-a-local-in-rome-antico-forno-roscioli — _{Photo by AnticofornoRoscioli}

Speciality: Buy pizza al taglio, as a local would eat here, and definitely just a single bite will let you fall in love with the crunchiness of the slice, the taste of the sauce on top and the lightness of the dough. Trust me, the taste of a simple Pizza Rossa will be just the beginning of a love story with this Forno.

Budget: € starting from as little as 5€ per person.

Where: Campo ‘de Fiori, Via dei Chiavari, 34

Opening time: Monday to Sunday from 7.30 to 20.30.

Forno Campo ‘de Fiori

As said earlier, I was so lucky to attend high school lost in one of Trastevere’s streets. So every time the school organized a day trip or a couple of hours at the closer Cinema, my classmate and I, we were passing by Piazza Campo ‘de Fiori.

This square is famous for many things such as the biggest daily open-air Market in Rome, Giordano Bruno’s memorial in the Piazza centre, the historic cinema and the simple yet so traditional Forno Campo ‘de Fiori.

If you want to eat like a local in Rome this is a must-try Forno, to experience the so famous traditional bakery products. The little shop offers simple, super fresh, super tasty products; definitely worth queueing to eat your food surrounded by this historical square and buildings.

Eat-like-a-local-in-rome-Forno-campo-de-fiori — _{Photo by Lequattrodame}

Speciality: Pizza Bianca, yes as simple as that. One of the best pizza al taglio you will eat in beautiful Rome. If you want to try something sweet I love their “Crostata di Visciole” (Sour cherry tart).

Budget: € get ready to spend few Euros for a good slice of Pizza Bianca (or to spend a lot cause you can’t get to choose only one thing to eat).

Where: Campo de’ Fiori, 22

Opening time: Monday to Saturday from 8 to 14.30 and from 16.30 to 19.30.

Il maritozzo Rosso

In 2016 a new way of eating Maritozzo was born in Trastevere, the idea was to create this special “street food” mixing something so traditional, such as the Maritozzo (a typical Roman kind of brioche, stuffed with whipped cream), with not any more sweet stuffing, but replacing it with the savouries fillings. The idea boomed and today, in 2022, the Maritozzo Rosso is awarded as “Regional Champion of Lazio” by the “Gambero Rosso’s Street Food guide”.

Every day the Maritozzi are freshly prepared and stuffed with traditional roman and Italian ingredients. Here you can taste the balance of traditions and innovations and you can definitely feel the passion the staff put into what they do.

Perhaps you rather have your lunch in a restaurant? Don’t worry, because Maritozzo Rosso has two locations; offering the exact same menu, but with more tables and comfortable sits to enjoy the “street food” in slow food style in the beautiful neighbourhood of Prati.

Eat-like-a-local-in-rome-maritozzo-rosso — _{Photo by Romeing}

Speciality: Maritozzo with broccoli, anchovies and pecorino or with creamed cod and hummus were my favourites. If you are a meat eater try them all, I believe you will not regret it.

Budget: € starting from 6.50€ per Maritozzo.

Where:

Trastevere, Vicolo del cedro, 26
Prati, Via Pietro Cavallini 25

Opening time: in Trastevere: Monday to Friday from 12.30 to 15.30 and from 19.00 to 23.30. In Prati: Monday to Friday from 12 to 15 and from 18.30 to 23.

Roma campo de fiori — _{Photo by VitaItaliantour}

Here we are at the end of your foodie journey in Rome. I really hope you get the chance to eat at least in a few of these places I put together for you.

As a chef, but mainly as a food lover, I believe that every place you visit deserves an unforgettable food experience. Eating like a local in the country you are visiting will not only fulfil yourself but will support the local restaurants, shops, bakeries, pizzerias and small businesses giving them the chance to keep offering the best service, with quality and devotion.

Leave me your feedback in the comment and any questions you would like me to answer. Any extra tips to have the best food experience and to feel like a local is always given with pleasure.

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thorsborne-trail-hinchinbrook-island-view

The wild Thorsborne Trail. Things you need to know to hike the Hinchinbrook Island National Park.

17 October 2022

Are you ready to experience one of the wildest and most challenging walks of Tropical Queensland, Australia? I probably wasn’t until I did it, so here are for you all my tips and personal advice for you to organize and love this hiking.

The Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island is ideal for travellers who love, as I do, outdoor adventure and also like to challenge their body, strength and mind.

thorsborne-trail-hinchinbrook-island-lookout

Here is what you will find in this article, read everything and spot the little itinerary to plan at best this unforgettable hike.

Hiking the Thorsborne Trail

Rated as one of the top ten walks on the planet, the Hinchinbrook Island National Park offers a 32km long trail; which extends through the thick rainforests, the east coast’s white sandy beaches and the waterfalls, to immerse between the vast tropical lands and the deep green misty mountains.

Situated just over 200km south of Cairns and less than an hour from the nearest city of Townsville, Hinchinbrook Island is Australia’s largest Island National Park and is separated from the mainland by the Hinchinbrook Channel, detaching the coast of the nearby Cardwell.

Here you will find a quick and easy guide for your 4 days on the Thorsborne Trail, things I wish I did know before and tips to enjoy the most this wild and exciting hiking.

When to visit the Island

The best time to walk the Thorbone Trail on Hinchinbrook Island is from April to September. The climate will be warm but bearable in these months, as the wet season/summer is over and the Tropical Queensland winter offers cooler and dryer weather.

Not only for the “cooler” temperature but also making your 4-day plan in this period, will allow you to have enough water sources during your hiking, without the need to take with you litres and litres of water. Hinchinbrook Island is a very peculiar and unique island to hike and visit. There are only a few human traces and drinking tap water isn’t one of them, so you will have to rely on the water you will meet on the way.

wild thorsborne trail hinchinbrook island4

Hey, this is Rebecca an Italian travel and food lover, who’s exploring the world and beyond taking care of the beautiful planet we are lucky to live in.

If you want to know more about me and what I do why don’t you read here..

Getting to Hinchinbrook Island

With just 40 people permitted to camp on the island at any one time, a camping permit is required for all the camping sites along the Thorsborne Trail; a reason why the earlier you book your camping permit, the luckiest you will be to reserve the spot for the days you wish. You can make your booking here.

Once you have your Thorsborne Trail permit you will be able to go further with the ferry reservation. Daily operating from only two different companies, the ferries depart from Lucinda with Absolute North Charter and from Cardwell with Hinchinbrook Island Cruises.

thorsborne-trail-hinchinbrook-island-ferry

Both the ferry companies offer transfer to either end of the National Park Trail, south or the north end is completely up to you. Just keep in mind the best way to do it is from North to South, as water sources are more walking towards South of Hinchinbrook Island.

Thorsborne Trail difficult level

Four days through the Thorborne Trail is certainly enough for the actual 32km of hiking. The maximum length of staying is 5 days but it can be easily done in 3 to 4 days.

thorsborne-trail-hinchinbrook-island-creek

Based on my personal experience, I highly recommend spreading the walk in the full 3 nights and 4 days. The reason is mostly for the sake of the walk itself, for the chance to enjoy every little spot, the vibes and the simplicity of life in these “particular conditions”.

Protected since 1932, the trail is managed under the minimal impact bushwalking and no-trace camping ethic to help maintain the wild habitats and minimize the impact. The walk scenery changes creating a unique journey through Hinchinbrook Island National Park. Pristine beaches and bays, mountainous peaks, bright green and dense rainforest, mangrove and eucalyptus forest, waterfalls and creeks and enormous red rock to climb are only the frames of this unforgettable and breathtaking painting you are going to hike.

The grade difficulty of the Thorsborne Trail is difficult to challenge and I strongly agree with this. Perpahs I am not the number one hiker of our time, I do enjoy a lot of walks and hikes in general, as I did back in Switzerland, Thailand and Italy. This doesn’t make me a professional hiker either, so this trail was for me a good effort, still, I was capable to do it so and the reward was more than appreciated.

So don’t be afraid, the trail might cross different terrain, but it is not impossible to do it and all the people I met during my journey were from 16 years old to 65 and more. Take your time and don’t worry, you will not fail.

Pack smart and leave only footprints

One of the most important things about this hiking trip was for me – and other people I know who experienced the Thorsborne Trail – the “what, how and why” of packing your backpack for the 4 days in the smartest way. Pre-planning can be very helpful as the main need is to be self-sufficient, be able to rely on your own sources and obviously be sure to leave on your journey nothing but footprints.

thorsborne-trail-Hinchinbrook-island-falls

As you might have understood, the Hinchinbrook Island National Park does offer wilderness and nature, which means the usual facilities you seek in long hiking won’t be available here. Toilets, for example, are only in the main camping area and this for sure is the biggest and only service to be found through the trail. But here is what you can do to carry the right weight on your backpack and have a smooth experience without the need to leave anything behind, so to keep the beauty of the island as intact as possible.

Consider this list a very helpful one for your packing:

Make sure to have a good backpack, something around 40/50L of capacity and with plenty of outer pockets, to keep handy the most useful things. If the backpack comes with a water cover that’s a plus point, other just bring a cover bag to use in the chance of rain.
Lightweight and compact tents, sleeping bags and mattresses are so important, you don’t want to carry a huge tent or sleeping bag as every single gram will add to your back during the entire hike.
At least 3 litres hydration pack, or insulated bottles that you will fill up with water during the trail at the waterfalls and creeks. Better to take with you water purification tablets or simply boil the water before drinking it. To be honest, I haven’t, I was drinking the water from the source without treating it and I was fine.
Sunglasses are really important. Most of the time, especially the first 2 days you will be walking on the open bays, so under the direct sun. Don’t forget to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Mosquito repellent is a must, honestly, the amount of flies and others living on the island is crazy and if you are a person most likely to be bitten they will definitely enjoy doing it. My mistake was to take a DIY product with me, to be as less impactful as possible, but I regret it. These insects were starving! Don’t be afraid to take a good repellent and also some mosquito coils to use when you are in the camping areas.
Of course, you will need comfortable and reliable hiking shoes or boots to deal with the different surfaces you will walk. From climbing rocks over the shore to walking into some mud in the eucalyptus forest.
Camp kitchen to provide your main meals of the hiking, I carried the light and complete 360° Furno stove & pot set. Also don’t forget your food, which can be simple as your needs or dehydrated as a good and tasty alternative. I personally opt for plain rice with carrots for the main meals, it’s definitely up to your taste and needs.
A torch or headlamp for the light you will need after sunsets.
Make sure you have more than enough snacks to rely on during the walk. Fresh fruits, protein bars, cholates and nuts are good ways to have your sugar dose and satisfaction.
After or during your daily hiking you will be dying to jump into waterfalls, so don’t forget to pack your swimmers.
Hand sanitiser is very important as “normal” toilets are far from where you’ll be, surely just back on the mainland.
The biggest suggestion regarding your outfit is first to check the forecast and second to consider that the temperature is not dropping under 13° C at night. So heavy clothes are not necessary, probably I would think of a cosy jumper – just for the feeling of it – and a couple of changes of clothes.
Toiletries- of course, you don’t want to forget a toothbrush, a good and eco-friendly toothpaste and toilet paper.

thorsborne-trail-hinchinbrook-island-travel

Seems like a pretty big list of important things to have, but it is just the very necessities you will need to carry over with you. The better you can manage this weight, the smoother your Hinchinbrook Island hiking will be. Just keep in mind there is no rubbish bin on the Thorsborne Trail, so all that is arriving with you will be also following on your way out. In this way, the following people that come to enjoy this experience after you will have the chance to love and make the most of all the beauty you have seen and lived for these days.

Be Crocwise in Crocountry and enjoy the birdwatching

What is it like to visit Tropical Queensland and not run the risk of seeing a crocodile? Hinchinbrook Island National Park is known to have a small number of visitors at the time, 40 to be exact, this allows the wildlife to be the main inhabitants of the Park.

Obviously, crocodiles are a big slice of this wildlife cake and, as you might know, they can be in the ocean and outside also. Make sure you consider reading these tips to avoid any danger.

thorsborne-trail-Hinchinbrook-island-overview

Even though don’t be afraid to spot goannas, lots of bird species, colourful butterflies and all the beautiful flora and fauna predominating the surroundings. My favourite was the birds singing at dawn and the sunsets framed by the breathtaking landscapes and environments.

Quick 4 days itinerary on Thorsborne Trail

As promised here is the little itinerary to do the hike in the best way, from North of Hinchinbrook Island to the South. The journey will start early as the Absolute North ferry leaves Lucinda at 8 am and you will be able to start the walk around 9 to 9.30 am at Ramsay Bay; ending up on day 4 at Gorge Point at a different time, depending on the creek tides (make sure you check this in advance). Consider also making little changes depending on your feelings once you are there because, in the end, the real reason why you’re doing this is to really enjoy the route and the vibes you will have around.

Day 1: From Ramsay to Little Ramsay Bay, 6.5 km, allow about 5 hours.

Day 2: From Little Ramsay Bay to Zoe Bay, 10.5 km, allow about 6 hours.

Day 3: From Zoe Bay to Mulligan Falls, 7.5 km, allow 4.5 hours hike.

Day 4: From Mulligan Falls to Gorge Point, 7.5 km, allow about 2.5 hours.

This experience left me with lots of good memories and beautiful feelings even after 1 month. I will be advising this hiking to most of the people I will meet on my Tropical Queensland adventure and beyond.

thorsborne-trail-hinchinbrook-island-sunset

I really hope you will make this one of the best experiences you had in your life. Let me know what your thoughts are and how your experience was; if you are interested in other tips for this itinerary just comment below and I will be happy to help.

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Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation. The outstanding North Queensland 15 days itinerary

8 October 2022

The second largest State of Australia, Queensland, is situated on the northeastern side of the country and extends over 1.853.000 km². Due to its size, the climate and the landscapes change from north to south; delighting you with arid-desert weather in the interiors regions, refreshing misty mountains, stunning and warm sandy beaches and finally, tropical rainforest and coral reefs within its tropical and sub-tropical climate.

Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation josephine falls

This itinerary is a 15 days road trip from Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation, the North and Tropical part of this stunning State which is Queensland. Breathless and unforgettable locations are listed below to make the most of this trip. From beautiful animals you will be able to spot, to waterfalls and of course the evergreen Daintree rainforest and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef; all assembled in 2 weeks trip.

As you are planning an itinerary in North Queensland you will be meeting many cities, but mostly nature spots, which I loved to visit. I can’t wait to share with you this terrific itinerary of Tropical Queensland, so sit comfortably and get ready to take notes, as after so much researching and planning made before the departing day, this was the best route to do from Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation.

Cape Tribulation 1 — _{Photo Reefencounter.com.au}

15 days itinerary from Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation

Driving more than 1.100km, you will be amazed by some of the beauty this state has to offer. So if your plan is to have a relaxing holiday – or just a simple road trip – in the vast and green World’s Oldest rainforest, swimming in the crystal clear water of one of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef or explore some of the thousand falls there are: this 15 days itinerary from Airlie back to Cape Tribulation will please your needs.

This itinerary is made on my personal experience and I will give you tips for visiting a few places in only one day if needed. I, personally did everything in 19 days, but squeezing a few things together won’t bother the journey. Else, if you have extra time to make this route longer even only spend an extra night in your favourite spot. The road trip can, of course, be done the other way around, so from Cape Tribulation – or Cairns – to Airlie Beach.

Are you ready to dive into this exceptional journey into Tropical Queensland? Keep reading and I will share all you need to know about this road trip from Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation. Also in this article, you will find out about the accommodations I stayed in or the camping area, everything was on a budget, so if you are keen to discover them dare to go further with the reading and enjoy every bit.

Best time to visit

This 15 itinerary stretches over 1.000 kilometres, meaning the weather has little difference from Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation. Indeed the variation is quite small.

Personally, I did this road trip from the end of June to the beginning of July and the weather was just perfect.

The dryest months are the best, so from May to October (drag November in too). These months will give you the best weather, not crazy hot you won’t be able to stay out in the hottest hours and nor the rain won’t ruin your journey.

Only remember, the northeast you drive the wettest the weather can be, but leave the worries elsewhere and get ready to plan your 15-day itinerary in these stunning locations. All of them will give you more and more reason to keep going in this world’s Heritage Areas.

Day 1-2-3 Explore Whitsundays and Airlie Beach

Start your day in Airlie Beach surrounded by turquoise water and tourist shops around the main street, but no fear tourism here is spread the whole year around so you rarely find an uncomfortable crowd, – just avoid most of the school holidays -. In this area, summer is a must for the entire year so, you just have to pick a month to be here and book your tour and accommodation. Luckily Airlie Beach and so the Whitsundays cater budget hostels to luxury accommodations thus, whatever your pocket is, most of your needs will be pleased as you wish.

Airlie Beach is the best gateway to the 74 Whitsundays Islands, indeed the area deserves at least half a day to be spent here, your choice is to be here before or after your Sailing experience to Whitsundays. Most of the Sailing tours leave around 10 am to 1 pm, making even the first day quite intense.

My personal experience was 2 days and 2 nights long with Oz Trail, on the Spank Me boat; you can choose to sleep both nights on the boat or to camp the second night in Dryander National Park facing the stunning Whitsundays and sleeping under the million stars. The deal is nice for what I was looking for, the 2 days snorkelling and stop over or by some of the best beaches in the whole world: Whitehaven Beach, Hook Island, Hayman Island and more.

The sailing options here are so many to choose from, even a full day trip is worthing if you have limited time.

Returning to the mainland around 8.30 am, the 3rd day of your Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation itinerary can be filled with different activities. Airlie Beach offers stunning landscape views, amazing and hidden beaches, a Saturday night market and many hiking trails from short to 3-day 2-night adventures.

Nightlife is very welcoming and indeed the restaurants and cafes, so go on and enjoy this full day here.

I stayed at Base Backpackers paying 25$ p/night for a Non-Powered camper van space.

Day 4-5 Magnetic Island

Check out from your accommodation and drive 3 hours to Townville, here you will be embarking on the Ferry to another incredible mountainous island covered with open eucalypt woodlands and surrounded by coral reefs: Magnetic Island.

Sealink Ferry operates, from Townsville, most of the weekdays from 5.30 am to 10.30 pm and departs from Magnetic Island from 6 am until 11 pm. The price with the return is 37 $ for adults and if you book online you can benefit from a small discount.

Reaching the stunning Island you will be welcomed by the enormous amount of activities you can do here: snorkelling or diving, sailing, renting a topless car to spot the best sunset and also hiking the 36 kilometres trail to discover the wildlife.

Hiking is definitely the best choice for going around Magnetic Island, as the many trails available will gives you the opportunity to see koalas and rock wallabies; nonetheless to reach most of the best beaches on the island – Horseshoe Bay, Florence Bay, West Point and many others.

These two nights, I stayed in Nomand Magnetic Island paying 33$ per night for a bed in a 6 beds mixed dormitory. As in Airlie Beach, the options for accommodation are so many depending on your budget, and most of them won’t disappoint you.

Day 6 Wallaman’s Falls

Here we are on day 6, back from this gorgeous island which is Magnetic Island and ready to keep going with our itinerary from Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation.

Driving a little more than 2 hours you will reach one of my favourite waterfalls so far. Make sure you do some food and drinks shopping for this next stop; as the camping area hosted in the Girringun National Park has nothing but nature around.

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Wallaman’s falls is Australia’s highest permanent single drop waterfall, 268 meters tall, surrounded by the World Heritage rainforest. Here you can enjoy the stunning camping area with all the amenities, such as a Barbecue, shower, toilets, campfires with picnic tables and the different spaces for your tent, campervan or others.

The lovely hiking, deep into the rainforest, to reach the bottom of Wallaman’s falls will take around 2 hours. The walk is challenging and steep and will require wearing closed footwear, a bit of extra care during the hike and definitely plenty of water. Definitely worth it, as the view from the lookout and the view from the bottom will amaze your eyes and your emotions differently.

Book your campground from here at as cheap as 7$ per person per night and enjoy the warm campfire overlooking a billion stars above your head.

Day 7 Cardwell Pool & Murray Falls

Pack up your thing in the morning after a quick camping breakfast – you can find here 3 simple and healthy recipes – and make your way to the next stops: Cardwell Spa Pool and Murray Falls

After only 1 hour and a half of driving, you will reach this natural blue colour swimming hole. Here you can enjoy your time chilling surrounded by the shady trees or soaking in this refreshing water. The best time to visit the creek is definitely from May to September, as during the rainy season or the dry season will be either too much flowing water making it become dangerous, or too little water causing an excess of bacteria.

Airlie-beach-to-Cape-Tribulation-cardwell

There is a lovely Day use area here if you want to have lunch, otherwise drive 35 minutes and reach the final destination of your journey.

Murray Falls, within Girramay National Park, is definitely another of the best waterfalls in the area. A large amount of clear water floats between the big granite boulders and the tropical rainforest, creating the perfect environment for you to appreciate. From a simple “swimming” into the freshwater to a little 1.8-kilometre return walk and the opportunity to spot some reptiles, wallabies, birds and possums.

Camping for the night here will give you the benefits of exploiting the BBQ, showers and sleeping in a World Heritage area and other many facilities; all for as little as 7$ per night.

Day 8 Mission Beach & Etty bay

New week, new trip. Day 8 will lead you to other beautiful locations: Tully, for a quick visit to the little town I lived in for more than 6 months to complete my farm days; Mission Beach the paradisiac sandy beach immerse into the tropical vegetation and so ends your journey in a breathtaking camping area, to spot the peculiar bird of this coast: the Cassowary.

Drive only half an hour from your camping spot and you will reach the famous “wettest town in Australia” and home to the 7.9 meters tall Golden Gumboot: Tully. Have breakfast in one of the 3 bakeries and make your way to Mission Beach.

Airlie-beach-to-Cape-Tribulation-golden-gumboot

Definitely, you will need some extra relaxation in this 15 days itinerary and if this is what you are looking for, Mission Beach is your place to visit. The long, almost white sandy beach surrounded by coconut palm trees is most of the time uncrowded and offers some experiences such as Sky diving, scuba diving and guided fishing experience by the reef. Do not forget to do some shopping for your dinner at the next spot or if you’d prefer stop by one of the many restaurants, bars and fish and chips shops in Mission Beach.

Where will you sleep tonight? Of course by the ocean in Etty Bay, this little hidden Tropical beach is the perfect place to conclude your day with a BBQ by the beach and to spot a beautiful Cassowary – and trust me you will see one or even two if you haven’t already.

Etty Bay Cabins & Caravan Park have to offer different accommodations at different budgets depending on you. I stayed at a powered campsite for 45$ per night.

Day 10 Millaa Millaa waterfalls circuit & Lake Eacham

Get ready for day 10 as you will have to drive immerse in the bright green hilly landscape and stop a few times to see the many waterfalls this area offers, but I guess this won’t disappoint you at all.

Driving around 50 minutes inland from Etty Bay you will reach Millaa Millaa waterfall and its lookout. The waterfalls loop include also Ellinja and Zillie’s falls, but this area has so many other falls to visit and is known to be the wettest region in Australia.

Airlie-beach-to-Cape-Tribulation-millaa-millaa

Fancy a nice brunch with fresh and biodynamic dairy produce? Mungalli Cafe is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm and has amazing food to offer.

Make your way to Lake Eacham Tourist park, here spend your night paying only 28$ for an unpowered site. This spot is only 5 minutes from the beautiful vulcanic origin Lake; good for a refreshing swim, a tasty picnic or even a walk around.

Day 11-12 Cairns

Most of this Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation itinerary was spent between many beaches, waterfalls and small towns or villages; but no fear if you feel some city nostalgia here is for you the biggest north Queensland city: Cairns. Here you can spend a couple of days exploring the area or organize some tours and experiences.

On your way to the city, when leaving Lake Eacham, make a quick stop at the Cathedral Fig Tree to see one of the largest trees in Tropical Queensland. It’s worth it.

Cairns is home to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest but not only; this city has plenty of nightlife, restaurants, cafes and markets to delight your stay.

Not to miss a visit are for sure the Botanic Garden, the Rusty and Night Markets, the well-cured Art Gallery and the CBD. Plenty of stunning waterfalls are situated quite close to the city for a quick visit.

Some of the exclusive experiences here are for sure diving and snorkelling through the colourful Barrier Reef or flying over with a helicopter, skydiving and kayaking.

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Consider Fitzroy Island for a day trip from Cairns, as the boat is only 45 minutes each way to reach this paradise island where you can swim with turtles and do other activities. Make sure to book your ferry in advance.

If you happen to be in the city for the weekend, of course, enjoy the nightlife at the many clubs and bars, but also book your Kuranda tour. Experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway to reach the Sunday market and Barron’s falls and make your way back cruising above the rainforest canopy on Skyrail. The accommodations here are thousand to choose from, from backpackers hostel to luxury hotels, Cairns won’t let you sleep in the street.

As an on-a-budget traveller, I stayed at Mad Monkey Backpackers village for 42$ per night in a mix or female dormitory.

Day 13 Port Douglas & Mossman Gorge

In the last three out of 15 days’ itinerary from Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation, you will mostly enjoy all the nature that surrounds you. Leaving Cairns – not before having breakfast in one of the beautiful cafes the city offers – get ready to immerse yourself in scenic, wavy but still relaxing and colourful driving.

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The Great Barrier Reef drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is one of the most spectacular coastlines hugging two Word Heritage Areas: the Wet Tropic Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Heading north from Cairns to Port Douglas you will pass by Clifton and Trinity beach and Palm Cove, here the long sandy beaches will try you a stopover and if you have time I can only advice you to do it so.

Reach the Mossman Gorge for a deep immersion into the Daintree rainforest. You can choose to get a guided tour or only the bus ticket (13$) to reach the swimming hole for a cool bath in this clear water.

Spend the rest of your day in Port Douglas, where restaurants, bars, shops and the famous Four Mile beach will delight the rest of your stay.

Port Douglas Backpackers is where I spend my night for only 29$ per night in a dormitory

Day 14-15 Daintree rainforest

50 km north of Port Douglas you will arrive at the Daintree River where the cable ferry (45 $) transports you into the world’s oldest Rainforest. From here enjoy the rest of your driving between trees, landscapes, lookouts and beaches as your final stop has plenty of activities deserving for you but on the way, there are also many others to enjoy.

Daintree Rainforest offers the Crocodile river cruise, a refreshing swimming hole, the Ocean Safari, a river snorkelling experience, a terrific night walk tour and, of course, all the beautiful and rare animals this particular habitat hosts.

Airlie-beach-to-cape-tribulation-itinerary-crocodile

Cape Tribulation is the last stop of this 15 days itinerary from Airlie Beach. Here you can immerse in one of the many boardwalks along Cape Tribulation Road, escape the heat (and the saltwater Crocodile in the ocean) at Manson’s swimming hole or even taste exotic fruit at Cape Trib Farm.

The activities, as you can see, are endless of course, if you rather chill that can be an option and the singing birds will make your life easier.

Airlie-beach-to-cape-tribulation-itinerary

I stayed in Safari Lodge with my rooftop tent, surrounded by nature only. This spot is amazing and offers different accommodations, not only the camping site but also cabins, it has a swimming pool, kitchen, laundry and all the rest you will need for your stay. The price for a powered site is 26 $ per night.

Need to know

Here we come to the end of this 15-day itinerary from Airlie Beach to Cape Tribulation, so far one of the best road trips I have ever done and I am pretty sure this will be the same for you.

For this road trip, I was driving a 4wd but it is not necessary, a good 2wd will be more than enough, same for a van.

In case you are wondering if you can avoid the ferry cable crossing at the Daintree river, yes you can, but here is where you will need to have a good 4wd and have some extra time to drive a longer path.

Are you are wondering if you can do this itinerary in less or more days? Well, the answer is yes and not also. To do it in fewer days means you will have to skip some breathtaking places, but if that is your available time then plan well what you really would like to see and make it happen. In case you have more time to enjoy this Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation itinerary then make the trip as long as you can, stay for extra nights in your favourite spots and make memories.

Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation whiteheaven beach whitsundays2

If you travel alone the route will be safe, and also you will meet many other people to share something with, to have a chat, a beer or even a night out if you want to.

I hope you liked the itinerary, looking forward to hearing how your experience was and if you have extra questions you can write them here in the comments and I will be happy to help you.

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Airlie beach to Cape Tribulation. The outstanding North Queensland 15 days itinerary

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Day 8 Mission Beach & Etty bay

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