Best places to visit in Queensland with an SUV

Queensland isn’t short on adventure. Whether you’re after beaches, bush, outback roads or rainforest, this state’s got it all. And the best part? It’s even better when you’ve got the right wheels. An SUV rental gives you the freedom to explore without worrying about rough roads, tight corners or space for your stuff. So if you're picking up an SUV rental in Cairns, Townsville or Mount Isa, here are a few top spots worth pointing your wheels at.

Why SUV rental makes sense in Queensland

First up, let’s talk about why an SUV rental is a smart move. Queensland's got a lot of open road – some of it sealed, some of it not. Having a bit more height helps you see the scenery better, and the extra space comes in handy if you’ve packed your snorkel, fishing rods or just five too many snacks (no judgment).

SUV rental gives you room to breathe. Whether it’s beach chairs and an esky for a day trip or luggage for the whole family, it just fits. You won’t be squashed in like a tin of sardines.

And if you’re renting from 1300 Meteor Rentals, you’ll be sorted with a great range of new and well-kept SUVs. Our fleet is ready for wherever the road takes you — and you can book online, save cash, and cruise off stress-free. We’re based in Cairns, Townsville and Mount Isa, so you’ve got options.

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Alright, now let’s hit the road.

From Cairns: Waterfalls, rainforest and reef

Cairns is where rainforest meets reef — and there’s plenty to see if you’ve got an SUV rental.

Atherton Tablelands: Only about 90 minutes from Cairns, the Tablelands are full of rolling green hills, waterfalls, and cool little food stops. Don’t miss Millaa Millaa Falls — the road there’s a bit twisty but an SUV handles it easily. If you’ve got kids, the Curtain Fig Tree is a fun stop (it looks like something out of a fairytale).

Cape Tribulation: Head north on the Captain Cook Highway — one of the most beautiful coastal drives in Australia. Once you cross the Daintree River, you’ll want the SUV for those bumpy roads through the rainforest. There’s a real sense of adventure as you head deeper in.

Chillagoe Caves: About 3 hours west of Cairns, Chillagoe is where things get a bit more rugged. The roads aren’t always perfect, but they’re totally doable with an SUV rental. The caves are wild — ancient limestone, huge chambers, and a bit of mystery thrown in.

From Townsville: Beaches, bush tracks and magnetic views

If you’re starting from Townsville, you’re in a great spot. Whether you want to head inland, up north, or stay coastal, an SUV rental gives you the flexibility to go where the mood takes you.

Paluma Range National Park: Just over an hour north, Paluma offers mountain air, rainforest walks, and crystal-clear creeks. It’s cooler up there too — great for a picnic. The drive winds through the forest and feels like a mini escape from the tropics.

Charters Towers: Fancy some old gold mining history? This outback town is a couple of hours inland and a fun drive. The road’s sealed, but long and straight. With an SUV rental, you’ve got more comfort for the drive — and more room if you happen to bring back a few antique shop finds.

Magnetic Island: Alright, you can’t drive your SUV rental onto the island unless you take it on the ferry — but we had to include it. From Townsville, it’s a quick hop over on the barge. Once there, you can hire a local 4WD or bus it around. Snorkelling, koalas, and quiet beaches await.

From Mount Isa: Big sky country and wild red roads

Mount Isa feels like the real outback — because it is. It’s a place of red dirt, wide skies, and long drives. This is where an SUV rental really earns its keep.

Lake Moondarra: Just 20 minutes from town, Lake Moondarra is perfect for a lazy day. Great for picnics, fishing or just stretching the legs. You don’t need a full 4WD for this one, but the SUV’s extra room for fishing gear and eskies comes in handy.

Camooweal Caves National Park: This one’s a bit more adventurous. About 1.5 hours west of Mount Isa, Camooweal is remote and raw. The caves and sinkholes are incredible. Some parts of the track can get rough, so an SUV rental is perfect here — especially if it’s been raining.

Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park: This one’s not for the faint-hearted — it’s around 5-6 hours from Mount Isa and best done over a few days. The drive is part of the fun though, and you’ll be glad you’ve got an SUV rental when the bitumen ends. The national park is stunning — with bright green gorges and calm waters perfect for kayaking.

A few handy tips before you go

• Check the road conditions: Especially if you’re heading off the main highway. Some roads can close after heavy rain.

• Fuel up: Don’t assume the next town has fuel — distances can be long out here.

• Pack the right stuff: Sunscreen, water, snacks, and maps. Phone reception can be patchy in remote areas.

• Take your time: Queensland is big. Don’t rush it — enjoy the drive.

Hit the road with 1300 Meteor

Whether you’re sticking close to the coast or heading out bush, an SUV rental gives you the freedom to go your own way. At 1300 Meteor Rentals, we’ve got the right SUV for your trip, with friendly service and the best rates around.

Book your SUV rental in Cairns, Townsville, or Mount Isa today. You’ll be road-trip ready in no time.

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