From ten days to three weeks a trip to The Tip is a journey that will put your 4WD skills to the test on the adventure of a life-time. To fully enjoy the experience (and to keep safe) remember the military expression: “Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance”!
Before you even pack do your research. This may involve watching videos, reading reviews, studying maps and talking to others who have travelled these roads. Learn all you can so when the unexpected happens … well you’ve been expecting it.
Next you need to get your vehicle off-road ready. Pay particular attention to suspension (there will be lots of bumps), brakes, tyres and engine water-protection (for all those creek crossings). Then add recovery gear, an extra tyre and spare air filters because dust is going to get EVERYWHERE.
The Cape has limited mobile reception so installing a UHF is a top idea for communication. Because you won’t get internet most of the time it’s a good idea to carry paper maps as well as electronic ones. Also carry cash - when patchy internet services fail remote services may not be able to accept your credit card.
Time to pack? Not quite. What time of year are you travelling? To avoid the wet season (when roads may be closed) it’s advised to travel between May and October. The countryside may be greener in May, but the water crossings may be shallower in October. July school holidays will be crowded.
OK, let’s hit the road (you are packed aren’t you?). Although it is possible to take your 2WD along the Peninsula Development Road to Weipa, heading further north to The Tip will require a 4WD. But don’t let videos of crossing the infamous Gunshot Creek put you off – there are alternate routes around the most challenging sections.
There are some beautiful swimming holes along the Cape (Fruit Bat Falls is stunning), however there are crocodiles found throughout the region. Be croc wise and obey all warning signs.
And before you know it, you’re at Pajinka. Congratulations, you’ve made it to the northernmost tip of Australia and crossed off that major bucket-list item.