Torres Strait Islands Travel Guide
The Torres Strait lies between Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea: more than 270 islands and reefs scattered across roughly 48,000 square kilometres, with permanent communities on only 17 islands.
This is far removed from the usual tropical resort circuit. Infrastructure is limited, access to some communities requires permission and getting between islands takes planning. The reasons to come are different — Torres Strait Islander culture, remarkable marine country and a history shaped by the narrow stretch of sea between Australia and New Guinea.
- Half day
- 5 hours (approx.)
- $ 92,00 AUD
- $ 82,00 AUD
- 3 hours
- 180 min. (approx.)
- $ 69,00 AUD
- $ 59,00 AUD
- 16 Days
- 18:00 - 18:00
- $ 11,750 AUD
- $ 10,750 AUD
- 2 hours (approx.)
- 120 min
- $ 42,00 AUD
- $ 32,00 AUD
- 14 Days / 13 Nights
- 18:00 / 10:00
- $ 8,790 AUD
- $ 8,490 AUD
Remote Indigenous Cultural Hub
The people of the Torres Strait are culturally distinct from Aboriginal peoples of mainland Australia, with their own rich histories, distinct languages and customs. And it’s not just one single identity; there are different island groups, including the Top Western Group, Near Western Group, Central Islands and Eastern Islands.
Kala Lagaw Ya and its related dialects are spoken on the western and central islands, Meriam Mir in the east, and Torres Strait Creole is widely used across the region. Then there’s the art — dance, song, carving and printmaking, along with distinctive dance masks, all offer a glimpse into island culture.
The Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Thursday Island is home to historical collections and outstanding examples of Torres Strait Islander art. Just don’t assume you can simply turn up everywhere — local cultural protocols are important when visiting communities and culturally significant places.
FAQ
How many Torres Strait Islands are there?
There are more than 270 islands and reefs spread across the region, with permanent communities on around 17 of the islands. Together, they form a vast tropical archipelago between northern Australia and Papua New Guinea.
Is Thursday Island worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you’re interested in Torres Strait history and culture. You can visit Green Hill Fort and Gab Titui Cultural Centre, explore the island’s pearling heritage and use TI as a base for understanding the wider region.
Do you need special permission to visit the Torres Strait Islands?
Requirements vary from island to island and community to community. Before travelling to outer island communities or sensitive cultural locations, check the local access requirements and obtain any necessary permission in advance.
How do you get around the Torres Strait?
There are no road connections across the archipelago. Depending on your destination, transport between islands may involve ferries, boats, light aircraft, helicopters or charter services, with Horn Island serving as a major regional air transport hub.
Can I take a trip from Torres Strait to Papua New Guinea?
Ordinary visitors must follow international border and immigration requirements when travelling between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Special treaty provisions exist for eligible traditional inhabitants undertaking approved traditional activities, but these arrangements do not apply to general tourist travel.
Popular Places to Visit
Experience The Best Of Brisbane
The river is the natural place to start. Ferries and bridges connect the two banks, while riverside walking paths lead between gardens, restaurants and city views.
South Bank Parklands sits directly opposite the Brisbane CBD, bringing together around 15 hectares of parkland, Streets Beach and the Queensland Cultural Centre. Across the river, Queen Street Mall and the 18-hectare City Botanic Gardens offer a mix of busy city streets and quieter waterfront spaces.
Kangaroo Point has some of the best views of the Brisbane skyline and Story Bridge. Nearby, Howard Smith Wharves brings dining and riverside spaces beneath the bridge. New Farm, Fortitude Valley and West End add another mix of parkland, nightlife, leafy streets and charming cafés.
