Mount Isa to Mackay

from $90: 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 Mount Isa to Mackay 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.

Plane

5h 9m

Fastest

$295-668

Train

26h 25m

Cheapest

$90-3

Bus, Train

17h 54m

$110-1

Bus

19h 15m

$120-288

Drive

14h 52m

$150-230

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Traveling From Mount Isa to Mackay

The journey from Mount Isa to Mackay offers a fascinating transition from the rugged outback landscape to coastal beauty, showcasing the diverse experiences that Queensland has to offer.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mackay

Mackay boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

City Centre

• Great dining and shopping options.

• Close to the Bluewater Lagoon.

Mackay Harbour

• Stunning waterfront views.

• Popular spot for fishing and boating.

North Mackay

• Family-friendly atmosphere.

• Easy access to parks and recreational facilities.

Best Times To Visit Mackay's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Mackay.

Bluewater Lagoon

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and pleasant temperatures.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Weekdays are ideal for leisurely strolls, as weekends tend to attract more visitors.

Artspace Mackay

Evenings during special exhibitions offer a vibrant atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Mackay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackay enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season, making it vital to plan your visit around the weather patterns. The dry season, from May to October, offers the most pleasant conditions, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Mackay

For a true taste of Mackay, try the fresh seafood platter at The Leisure Inn, where you can savor local catches prepared with a tropical twist, contrasting sharply with Mount Isa's hearty, land-focused cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with ocean views, creates a dining experience that highlights the coastal lifestyle and the region's fresh ingredients.

How to Get from Mount Isa to Mackay: 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 trainBest price

1239 kmDistance

5h 9m Fastest

Mount Isa - Mackay operators

Explore transport companies operating between Mount Isa and Mackay, with prices starting at $90. 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 Mount Isa station to Townsville station

Average Duration

11h 50m

Estimated price

AU$65-110

Train from Townsville station to Mackay station

Average Duration

6h 25m

Estimated price

AU$45-95

Bus

Contact phone

1300 473946

Website

https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Mount Isa to Townsville

Average Duration

11h 50m

Estimated price

AU$85-200

Bus from Townsville to Mackay

Average Duration

6h 25m

Estimated price

AU$45-95

Plane

Website

https://www.virginaustralia.com/

Plane from Mount Isa Airport (ISA) to Mackay Airport (MKY)

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

AU$410-700

Website

https://www.qantas.com/

Plane from Mount Isa Airport (ISA) to Mackay Airport (MKY)

Average Duration

6h 25m

Estimated price

AU$460-650

Mount Isa to Mackay: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Mount Isa and Mackay offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Expect a stopover when flying from Mount Isa to Mackay, often in Townsville, which can add extra time to your journey, so plan accordingly and check your layover duration when booking.

• Upon arriving at Mackay Airport, be prepared to navigate a smaller regional airport; the layout is straightforward, but it's a good idea to confirm the baggage claim area and ground transportation options ahead of time.

• Taxi fares from Mackay Airport to the city center typically range from $40 to $50 AUD; it’s advisable to have cash on hand, as not all taxis may accept cards, and you can book one via local taxi services like Mackay Taxis (mackaytaxis.com.au).

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Mount Isa to Mackay.

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The distance between Mount Isa and Mackay is 1010.7 km by air and 1239.7 km by road. The travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 26 hours and 25 minutes, by bus and train it takes 17 hours and 54 minutes, and by plane it takes 4 hours and 56 minutes to reach Mackay from Mount Isa. Conversely, it takes about 14 hours and 52 minutes by car to travel from Mackay to Mount Isa, and approximately 19 hours and 15 minutes by bus.

The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Mount Isa to Mackay is by train, with prices ranging from $95 to $190. However, this option is also the longest in terms of travel time, taking approximately 26 hours and 25 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to reach Mackay from Mount Isa is by plane, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes. However, it is important to note that this option is more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $290 to $700.

The prices for a train ticket from Mount Isa to Mackay range from $97 to $190. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Mackay and Mount Isa vary from $118 to $390.

To travel from Mount Isa to Mackay without using public transportation, you can take a car. The driving distance between the two places is around 1239.2 km, and it takes approximately 14h 52m to drive from Mount Isa to Mackay. Keep in mind that the prices for car rental or fuel may vary, ranging from $150 to $230.

To travel from Mount Isa to Mackay without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train. This journey takes approximately 17 hours and 54 minutes and costs around $110-$320. Another option is to fly from Mount Isa to Mackay, which takes around 4 hours and 56 minutes and costs $290-$700.

There is no direct link between Mount Isa and Mackay by train. However, Queensland Rail Travel operates services that depart from Mount Isa station and arrive at Mackay station with a transfer in Townsville, taking approximately 26 hours and 25 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus from Mount Isa to Mackay, but Greyhound Australia operates services that depart from Mount Isa station and arrive at Mackay station with a transfer in Townsville, taking approximately 19 hours and 15 minutes.

The flight duration between Mount Isa and Mackay typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes, with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two airports. The cost of a flight between Mackay and Mount Isa can range from $295 to $668, depending on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and seat availability.

There are several options for accommodation near Mackay. With over 72 hotels available, travelers can choose from a variety of options based on their preferences and budget. Prices start at $65, ensuring there are choices available for different price ranges.