In short
- Coach transfers take 2.5 hours from Cairns and 45 minutes from Mission Beach.
- Pickup times from Cairns and Mission Beach vary by operator, and some start as early as 6:30 am.
- Self-drivers take the Bruce Highway to meet at the Golden Gumboot in Tully.
In this article
Getting to the Tully River is straightforward. The gorge is located 140 kilometers south of Cairns and 45 minutes inland from Mission Beach. You can book a tour with transport included or drive your own vehicle.
How do coach transfers from Cairns work?
Full-day tours offer round-trip air-conditioned coach transfers from Cairns.
The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours each way. Pickup times vary by operator; some start around 6:30 am. The cost is included in standard tour prices, which range from $240 to $265 AUD.
Can I get a transfer from Mission Beach?
Yes, operators provide quick 45-minute transfers from Mission Beach.
Since Mission Beach is closer to the river, pickups start later in the morning. You ride an air-conditioned coach directly to the staging area below the Kareeya Hydro power station.
| Origin | Pickup Time | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cairns | Early morning (varies) | 2.5 hours |
| Mission Beach | Later morning (varies) | 45 minutes |
How do I self-drive to the Tully River?
Drive via the Bruce Highway to the town of Tully.
From Tully, you will follow Tully Gorge Road to the meeting point. The drive takes about 2 hours from Cairns and 45 minutes from Mission Beach. You only pay for your fuel.
Where do self-drivers meet the tour?
You will meet your guide at the Golden Gumboot or the Tully Gorge car park.
Your tour operator will provide exact directions. The Golden Gumboot is a 7.9-meter tall landmark in Tully. Alternatively, you might drive directly to the Tully Gorge Camping Area.
How do I get back after rafting?
The tour bus returns you to your accommodation after dinner.
Tour days typically conclude with a hearty dinner at a traditional country pub. Spots include the El Arish Tavern or Feluga Hotel. Afterward, you reboard the bus for the trip home.
Should I book a transfer or drive myself?
Book a transfer to relax, or self-drive to save money and maintain flexibility.
Self-drive packages do not include transport costs. A self-drive 2-person sports rafting tour starts at $150 AUD for a half-day. Standard full-day self-drive tours cost between $195 and $265 AUD.
Questions travellers ask
How long is the drive from Cairns to the Tully River?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours by car or 2.5 hours on the tour bus.
Can I meet the tour at the river?
Yes, self-drivers can meet operators at the Golden Gumboot in Tully or directly at the Tully Gorge car park.
Do tour prices include transport?
Standard full-day tour prices ($240 to $265 AUD) include round-trip coach transfers from Cairns or Mission Beach.