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Mackay, Queensland to Atherton, Queensland from $500: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Mackay, Australia
to
Atherton, Australia

How to Get from Mackay to Atherton: 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.

$500 by busBest price
747 kmDistance
6h 32m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Mackay to Atherton 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.

Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
11h  39m
Estimated price
Dkr983-12674
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
15h 
Estimated price
Dkr500-750
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 747 km
Duration: 6h 32m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  9m
Estimated price
Dkr668-1420
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  37m
Estimated price
Dkr670-967
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  45m
Estimated price
Dkr830-2864
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
Dkr1143-2971
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  14m
Estimated price
Dkr1359-6001
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Traveling From Mackay to Atherton

The journey from Mackay to Atherton offers a striking contrast, with Mackay's coastal charm and laid-back vibe transitioning to Atherton's lush highlands and vibrant farming community.

Best Neighbourhoods in Atherton

Atherton boasts diverse neighborhoods that showcase its rich culture and natural beauty.

Atherton Town Centre
• Hub for shopping and dining options
• Central access to local attractions
Tolga
• Known for its scenic parks and gardens
• Home to local markets with fresh produce
Wondecla
• Offers stunning views of surrounding mountains
• Quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxation

Best Times To Visit Atherton's Attractions

Timing your visits to Atherton’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Atherton Tablelands
Visit early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer tourists.
Curtain Fig Tree
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter, more personal experience.
Crystal Caves
Afternoons often see fewer visitors, allowing for a relaxed exploration.

Atherton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Atherton enjoys a mild subtropical climate, with warm summers and cooler winters, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Visiting during the dry season from May to October offers the best weather for exploring, as rainfall is minimal and temperatures are comfortable.

Dining Recommendation in Atherton

A visit to Atherton calls for trying the locally sourced tablelands produce at a restaurant like The Atherton Tablelands RSL, where hearty dishes like lamb shanks paired with seasonal veggies celebrate the regional flavors. The cozy, community vibe here contrasts beautifully with the coastal dining scenes in Mackay, offering a true taste of the highlands.

Mackay - Atherton operators

Explore transport companies operating between Mackay and Atherton, with prices starting at . 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 Mackay to Gordonvale

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
Dkr330-11824

Train from Mackay to Proserpine

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
Dkr55-2091
Bus
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Mackay to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
12h 10m
Estimated price
Dkr410-550

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Atherton

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
Dkr120-190

Bus from Mackay to Atherton via Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
Dkr500-750
Contact phone
+61 7 3036 2070
Website
https://www.transnorthbus.com.tnbc.com.au/

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Atherton

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
Dkr120-190
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Mackay to Cairns

Average Duration
12h 10m
Estimated price
Dkr550-1300
Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Mackay (MKY) to Cairns (CNS) via Townsville Airport (TSV)

Average Duration
4h 36m
Estimated price
Dkr1500-3500

Plane from Mackay (MKY) to Cairns (CNS) via Brisbane

Average Duration
5h 32m
Estimated price
Dkr1500-3500
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Mackay (MKY) to Cairns (CNS) via Brisbane

Average Duration
5h 43m
Estimated price
Dkr1300-4500
Website
skytrans.com.au

Plane from Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
Dkr900-2800

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Mackay to Atherton.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Mackay and Atherton is approximately 584 km. If you choose to drive, it will take around 9 hours and 37 minutes to reach Atherton from Mackay. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes. Another option is to fly from Mackay to Cairns and then take a bus, which typically takes around 9 hours and 16 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Mackay to Atherton is by bus, which takes approximately 15 hours and costs between $70 and $100. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly from Mackay to Cairns and then drive to Atherton, which takes around 6 hours and 33 minutes and costs between $150 and $430.
The prices for a train journey from Mackay to Atherton can range from $140 to $216. On the other hand, taking a bus from Atherton to Mackay can cost between $73 and $99.
To get from Mackay to Atherton without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 752 km. This is a scenic route that takes about 9 hours and 37 minutes, depending on the traffic. The cost of fuel for this journey would range from $95 to $140, depending on the vehicle and fuel prices.
The best way to travel from Mackay to Atherton without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes and the cost ranges from $140 to $220. Another option is to take a flight from Mackay to Cairns, and then catch a bus from Cairns to Atherton, which takes around 9 hours and 16 minutes.
Yes, there is no direct link between Mackay and Atherton by bus. However, you can take a bus from Mackay to Cairns Central Station and then transfer to another bus to Atherton. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 15 hours.
The flight from Mackay to Atherton typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes with one stopover. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but it is typically between $200 to $400.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Atherton with over 54 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at around $82 per night, offering a range of choices for different budgets and preferences.