Driving
Babinda to Cloncurry
Updated: 27 May 2026
The journey from Babinda to Cloncurry covers 1,300 km, taking you across the base of the Cape York Peninsula and into the heart of the outback. You will travel north to Cairns, then west on the Kennedy Highway and Flinders Highway (A6) through Charters Towers and Mount Isa. This is a challenging but rewarding outback drive.
Total Distance: 1,300 km driving, 1,000 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest, taking approximately 16 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most practical way to reach Cloncurry.
Compare Babinda to Cloncurry Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
16 hours
Avg Price
400-500 AUD fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Kennedy Highway to Charters Towers, then Flinders Highway (A6) to Cloncurry.
The Flinders Highway is the main route; watch for heavy mining traffic.
Travel Tips
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HeatCloncurry can be extremely hot; carry plenty of water.
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Road TrainsBe cautious when overtaking long road trains on the Flinders Highway.
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AccommodationBook in advance as mining activity can fill up local motels.
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NavigationDownload offline maps as reception is limited in the outback.
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FuelFill up in every major town you pass.
Safety Tips
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FatigueTake regular breaks on the long inland stretches.
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WildlifeWatch for kangaroos and emus on the road at dawn and dusk.
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WeatherCheck for flood warnings during the wet season.
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EmergencyCarry extra water and a satellite phone if possible.
People Also Ask
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How far is Cloncurry from Mount Isa?It is approximately 120 km east of Mount Isa.
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Is there a train?The Inlander train stops at Cloncurry station.
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Are there tolls?There are no tolls on this route.
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Is it a safe drive?Yes, but it requires caution due to remote stretches.
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What is the best time to leave?Leave early to avoid the heat of the day.
Quick Info
- From Babinda, Queensland, Australia
- To Cloncurry, Queensland, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Winter (June to August) to avoid extreme summer heat.
Things to Do in Cloncurry
1
Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Centre
Learn about the town's mining and aviation history. It is a great starting point.
2
Chinaman Creek Dam
Enjoy fishing and water sports. It is a popular recreational area for locals.
3
Mary Kathleen Mine
Visit the site of this former uranium mine. It is an interesting historical site.
4
John Flynn Place Museum
Discover the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. It is a unique museum.
Tags
Babinda to Cloncurry
driving to Cloncurry
Cairns to Cloncurry
Queensland road trip
Bruce Highway
Flinders Highway
outback Queensland
Cloncurry transport
