Bus
Driving
Clifton Beach to Mareeba
Updated: 27 May 2026
The route from Clifton Beach to Mareeba takes you from the coast into the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. You will travel via the Captain Cook Highway and the Kennedy Highway, climbing the range through Kuranda. The drive covers approximately 70 kilometers and takes about 75 minutes. Mareeba is known for its drier climate and vast agricultural landscapes, including coffee and mango plantations. This route is a popular gateway for exploring the wider Tablelands region.
Total Distance: 70 km driving distance and 45 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest option, taking approximately 75 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own car is the most cost-effective way to reach Mareeba.
Compare Clifton Beach to Mareeba Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Avg Price | 30-50 AUD | 25-30 AUD fuel |
| Operator | Trans North Bus | Private Vehicle |
| Route | Cairns to Mareeba via Kuranda. | Captain Cook Highway to Kennedy Highway via Kuranda. |
| Tip | Bus services are limited; check the schedule in advance. | Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the mountain climb. |
Travel Tips
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FuelFill up your tank in Cairns or Smithfield before heading up the range.
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ClimateMareeba is significantly drier than the coast; stay hydrated.
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Road ConditionsThe Kennedy Highway is well-maintained but watch for heavy trucks.
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TimingTravel mid-morning to avoid the morning commuter traffic in Cairns.
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Local ProduceStop at roadside stalls for fresh mangoes and avocados in season.
Safety Tips
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WildlifeBe cautious of wallabies on the road at dawn and dusk.
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FatigueTake a break in Kuranda if you feel tired during the drive.
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WeatherCheck for fog on the range during the early morning hours.
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EmergencyCarry a basic first aid kit in your vehicle.
People Also Ask
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Is Mareeba worth visiting?Yes, it is the gateway to the Tablelands and has a unique climate.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
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Are there buses?Yes, Trans North operates services from Cairns.
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Is the road steep?The Kuranda Range section is steep and winding.
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What is the best time to go?The dry season from April to September is ideal.
Quick Info
- From Clifton Beach, Queensland, Australia
- To Mareeba, Queensland, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
April to September for pleasant, dry weather.
Things to Do in Mareeba
1
Mareeba Heritage Museum
Learn about the history of the region, including tobacco farming and mining. It is a great indoor activity.
2
Coffee Works
Sample locally grown coffee and chocolate. They offer a comprehensive tour of the production process.
3
Granite Gorge Nature Park
Feed wild rock wallabies in their natural habitat. The park also offers swimming in the gorge.
4
Mareeba Wetlands
Explore the diverse birdlife and wildlife in this protected sanctuary. It is ideal for nature photography.
Tags
Clifton Beach to Mareeba
Kennedy Highway drive
Atherton Tablelands travel
Mareeba transport
driving to Mareeba
Cairns to Mareeba route
Queensland inland travel
Mareeba coffee plantations
Tablelands road trip
