Billy Tea Safaris
Experience Tropical North Queensland your way with a fully customised private tour from Cairns.
Whether you're travelling with family, friends, a corporate group, cruise ship guests or celebrating a special occasion, our private charters offer the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace with a dedicated local guide and private vehicle.
Choose from our most popular destinations, including the Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, Atherton Tablelands and Chillagoe Outback, or work with our team to create a completely tailored itinerary designed around your interests, schedule and budget.
With over 40 years of local experience, eco-accredited guides and premium vehicles, Billy Tea Safaris delivers unforgettable private touring experiences throughout Tropical North Queensland.
Trusted Since 1983
Billy Tea Safaris has been showcasing the natural wonders of Tropical North Queensland for more than 40 years. As the original Daintree Rainforest touring company, we have built our reputation on exceptional guiding, local knowledge and personalised service. Our reputation has been built on exceptional guiding, authentic local knowledge and a commitment to sustainable tourism.
When you choose Billy Tea Safaris, you're choosing:
- Locally owned and operated expertise
- More than 40 years of touring experience
- Advanced Eco Certified operator
- Eco Tourism Hall of Fame member
- Experienced local guides
- Flexible, personalised itineraries
- Premium touring vehicles
- Exceptional customer service from planning through to travel day
- Private Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation Tour - Discover the Daintree River, Cape Tribulation, rainforest boardwalks and spectacular coastal scenery with the flexibility to travel at your own pace.
- Private Atherton Tablelands Tour - Visit waterfalls, crater lakes, local food producers and charming country towns.
- Private Chillagoe Outback Tour - Explore limestone caves, mining history, Aboriginal rock art and the rugged Australian Outback.
- Custom Multi-Day Tours - Combine the reef, rainforest and outback into a completely personalised itinerary.
For smaller groups, enjoy the comfort of our premium Toyota Granvia, offering spacious seating, air conditioning and a smooth touring experience throughout the day.
For larger groups, our custom-built touring vehicles provide comfort, safety and exceptional visibility while exploring the diverse landscapes of Tropical North Queensland.
All private tours include a dedicated driver-guide, informative commentary and the flexibility to adapt the day to suit your interests.
- Families - Travel at your own pace with flexibility for children, grandparents and multi-generational family groups.
- Couples - Enjoy a personalised day exploring some of Tropical North Queensland's most spectacular destinations without the constraints of a larger group tour.
- Friends & Small Groups - Create your own adventure and experience the region exactly the way you want.
- Cruise Ship Guests - Make the most of your limited time in port with a private shore excursion tailored around your ship's arrival and departure times.
- Corporate & Incentive Groups - Reward staff, entertain clients or create memorable team experiences with customised private touring options.
- Special Occasions - Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, proposals and milestone events with a private experience designed especially for your group.
The prices below are for our standard base inclusions of:
- 1-day private tour
- Private vehicle
- Private driver-guide with live commentary for the day
- Lunch
- National Park Fees
- Standard tour locations. If you would like to swap or change the tour for something else, additional costs may apply.
Additional charges:
- +$200 for charters on Saturday
- +300 for charters on Sunday
- +$500 for charters on Public Holidays (QLD)
- +$100 extra per day for a non-English language guide
| 1 - 6 Passenger Vehicle | $2,500 |
| 7 - 14 Passenger Vehicle | $3,500 |
| 15 - 19 Passenger Vehicle | $4,000 |
| 20+ Passengers | P.O.A |
Cancellation Policy:
With all our private charters and extended charters, there is a 14-day cancellation policy if cancelled 14 days or less there will be a 100% cancellation fee. We strongly suggest that you have Travel Insurance to safeguard against any unforeseen circumstances.
Terms and Conditions:
Subject to availability upon enquiry. Sunday charters and times outside regular times, such as holiday periods, may incur additional fees. Please check when enquiring. Itineraries are subject to change, and modification and some destinations may not be reached at the discretion of the Billy Tea Safaris guide on the day due to weather conditions, road conditions, possible road closures and for the safety of all passengers.
How much will my tour cost?
Each tour is different based on your itinerary. We start with our base price and based on where you would like to go we will send through a quote. All prices are in AUD.
Can we customise the itinerary?
Absolutely. Every private charter can be tailored to suit your interests, timeframe and group requirements.
- Groups: are you part of a specific club or group and want a tailored trip to match your interests? We can help
- Friends: grab some mates and have an adventure! Or why not get a group of couples together for a trip of a lifetime
- Families: travel with your family or go as a group with family friends
- Special occasions: whether is is for a corporate day out, birthday or another special occasion, what a great way to celebrate
What time does the tour start and end?
This is up to you! But we will provide our recommendation on the best time based on your chosen activities.
How many people can I take?
For 6 passengers or fewer, you will travel in total style and luxury in the latest model of Toyota Granvia, ensuring safety and a maximum level of comfort both on-road and when exploring the backroads. For 7 or more passengers, you will travel in one of our custom-built air-conditioned luxury 4WD vehicles.
Is there storage for luggage or strollers?
No. There is no storage for luggage or suitcases. Please only bring a small handbag or a small backpack. No strollers can be carried on our vehicles either.
What do I need to bring?
Hat, sunscreen, camera with extra batteries & memory cards, water bottle, towel and swimming costume (if your itinerary includes a swim stop), insect repellent, extra cash for cold drinks, souvenirs or an ice-cream, raincoat in our rainy season or umbrella.
What do I wear?
As we are in a tropical environment, please wear comfortable clothes and flat shoes or sandals. In our winter months (July to August), you may wish to bring a light jacket for the morning. It is advised not to wear thongs (flip flops) and please no high heels.
How far in advance should we book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly during peak travel periods and school holidays.
What if I have dietary requirements?
All dietary requirements must be notified at the time of reservation, or at least 48 hours' notice before travel. We cater for vegetarians and most other requirements within reason and providing they are of a medical nature. Some locations you may visit such as Coffee Works Mareeba provide gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives for the coffee and chocolate samples.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Due to the remoteness and ruggedness of the area, passengers must be able to take walking steps by themselves or with the aid of their own carer. Wheelchairs must be small compact collapsible chairs as space is limited. If you have a wheelchair, please advise our reservations team when booking or no later than 48 hours before departure. Billy Tea Staff are unable to assist with any lifting or assistance due to insurance liability and not an authorised carer.
Is Wifi available?
No, due to the remoteness of the area, we can not provide WiFi in our vehicles. This may also mean limited mobile reception throughout the day.
