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Cairns to Tennant Creek

from $229: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Tennant Creek with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Drive
19h  38m
$229-350
Train, Bus
131h 
Cheapest
$1.1-7.7
Plane
7h  20m
Fastest
$251-711
route mapOpen full-size map
Distance: 1827 km
Duration: 15h 43m
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Traveling From Cairns to Tennant Creek

The journey from Cairns to Tennant Creek immerses you in vivid landscapes, shifting from Cairns' tropical beaches to Tennant Creek's rugged outback, showcasing Australia's diverse beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tennant Creek

Tennant Creek features vibrant neighborhoods that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Tennant Creek Central
• Diverse dining options and local shops.
• Close to historical sites and attractions.
Pine Tree Hill
• Offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Excellent for outdoor activities and hiking.
Katherine Terrace
• Home to cultural events and community gatherings.
• Provides easy access to local art and craft markets.

Best Times To Visit Tennant Creek's Attractions

Timing your visit to Tennant Creek’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Battery Hill Mining Centre
Visit in the early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre
Explore during weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and personalized attention.
Tennant Creek Telegraph Station
Late afternoon visits provide beautiful light for photography and a peaceful stroll.

Tennant Creek Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tennant Creek features a hot semi-arid climate, with sweltering summers and mild winters that can impact your travel plans. The best times to visit are during the cooler months of May to September, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat.

Dining Recommendation in Tennant Creek

Try the barramundi at the Tennant Creek RSL Club, where the focus shifts from tropical seafood to hearty, robust flavors featuring local ingredients. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere and authentic outback vibe provide a unique contrast to the bustling culinary scene in Cairns.

How to Get from Cairns to Tennant Creek: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

by carBest price
1827 kmDistance
15h 43m Fastest

Cairns - Tennant Creek operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Tennant Creek, with prices starting at $229. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$109-197

Train from Brisbane to Adelaide

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$175-284
Website
https://www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/great-southern/

Train from Brisbane to Adelaide

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$1.1-1.1

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Alice Springs

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$325-775
Website
https://www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/the-ghan/

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Alice Springs

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$325-775
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
AU$131-339

Bus from Alice Springs to Tennant Creek

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
AU$49-120
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-175
Plane

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Tennant Creek (TCA)

Average Duration
22h
Estimated price
AU$251-711
Website
https://www.qantas.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
AU$219-656

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Tennant Creek.

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The distance between Cairns and Tennant Creek is 1266.6 km by air, 1837.5 km by road. By bus and train, the travel time from Cairns to Tennant Creek would depend on the specific route taken, but it is expected to be longer than 20 hours. By plane, it takes approximately 20 hours and 55 minutes to reach Tennant Creek from Cairns. However, if driving, it takes around 19 hours and 38 minutes to travel from Tennant Creek to Cairns by car.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cairns to Tennant Creek is to drive, as it is cheaper compared to other modes of transportation and takes approximately 19 hours and 38 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option would be to fly and then take a bus, which takes around 15 hours and 38 minutes.
To get from Cairns to Tennant Creek without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 1837.9 km. The journey takes roughly 19 hours and 38 minutes by car. You may want to consider the cost of fuel and potential tolls, which can range from $230 to $340.
The most convenient way to travel from Cairns to Tennant Creek without a car is by taking a combination of bus and train. The journey typically involves taking a bus to Sydney first and then boarding a train to Tennant Creek. This option takes about 4 days and 5 hours and can cost between $550 to $2,300 depending on the specific transportation and accommodation choices.
The flight between Cairns and Tennant Creek typically takes around 25 hours and 30 minutes with two stopovers. However, there is no direct flight between the two airports. The cost of a flight can vary between $270 and $750, depending on the airline and availability of tickets.
There are several options for accommodation near Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory of Australia. Some of the hotels in the area include Elliott Hotel, Tenant Creek Hotel, Outback Resort Motel, and the Tennant Creek Caravan Park. Prices for these accommodations start at $88 per night.