The horn-shaped Cape York Peninsula at the northern end of Queensland, Australia, is a showcase of Aboriginal culture and cave paintings, tropical forests, the Quinkan Caves and abundant wildlife (kangaroos, emus and koalas). Hardy travelers will find this area fascinating, but it's best seen on a tour. You'll need a week to do it justice.
The peninsula is between the Coral Sea and the Gulf of Carpentaria. Within reach of the coast are several small islands, including Possession Island, where Captain Cook claimed the east coast of Australia.
The tip of Cape York is about 500 mi/800 km north of Cairns.