Chillagoe Caves and Outback Tour Billy Tea Safaris

Chillagoe Caves Tour Highlights

  • Skybury Coffee Plantation – Begin your Chillagoe Cave day with morning tea at Australia’s oldest coffee plantation in Mareeba, sipping locally grown coffee or tea while enjoying sweeping views.
  • Scenic 4WD Journey – Travel over the McAllister Ranges and across the dry savannah plains, spotting kangaroos, emus, wedge-tailed eagles, frill-neck lizards and other outback wildlife.
  • Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park – Join a guided tour through fascinating limestone caverns formed over 400 million years ago. See striking stalactites, stalagmites, and fossilised coral.
  • Historic Chillagoe Smelters – Step back in time at the old copper smelter ruins, which tell the story of this once-booming mining town.
  • Outback Pub Lunch – Enjoy a hearty country meal at a classic Australian pub in Chillagoe before browsing Aboriginal art and marble souvenirs.
  • Balancing Rock and Aboriginal Rock Art – Visit the impressive natural rock formation and learn Dreamtime stories connected to this landscape.
  • Granite Gorge Nature Park – Meet the friendly rock wallabies and explore a stunning gorge of giant boulders on the return journey.

Explore Ancient Caves, Outback Landscapes and Aussie Wildlife in One Day

Join Billy Tea Safaris, a locally owned and eco-certified operator, for the only full-day outback adventure that departs from Cairns. This small-group 4WD tour takes you from lush rainforest and farmland to the dramatic limestone caves of Chillagoe, with plenty of authentic Aussie experiences along the way.

Tour Details

  • Duration: Full-day tour (~11 hours)
  • Departure Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day)
  • Pick-up Time: From 6:30 am in Cairns, returning around 6:30–7:30 pm
  • Fitness Level: Moderate – caves involve steps and uneven ground. Closed-in shoes are required.

Why Choose Billy Tea Safaris?

Billy Tea Safaris is a family-owned company with over 35 years of outback experience. Their tours are designed for small groups, ensuring a personal and engaging adventure. With eco-certification, cultural respect, and expert guides, they deliver a truly authentic Australian outback experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Chillagoe Caves tour from Cairns?

It’s a full-day tour of approximately 11 hours, including pick-up and return transfers.

Are the caves easy to walk through?

The Chillagoe Caves involve steps, narrow walkways, and uneven ground. A moderate level of fitness and sturdy shoes are required.

What wildlife might I see on the tour?

Kangaroos, emus, wallabies, wedge-tailed eagles, frill-neck lizards, and other native species are commonly spotted.

Is lunch provided?

Yes, a hearty Aussie pub lunch in Chillagoe is included, along with morning tea at Skybury Coffee Plantation.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children aged 4 years and above are welcome. Family pricing is available.

Book Your Outback Adventure

Step into a world of ancient limestone caves, rugged outback beauty, and unique wildlife encounters with Billy Tea Safaris. Seats are limited, so secure your spot today and experience the magic of Chillagoe!

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