Being in the tropical belt of northern Australia, both Cape York Peninsula and the Gulf Savannah are subject to two very distinct seasons. November to April is the wet season and May to October the dry season. Cyclones can occur any time during the wet season and are generally responsible for the massive flooding. During the wet season it is not uncommon for the rivers in the region to raise their levels up to 5 - 6 metres above normal.

Overland travel throughout most of the region is restricted to the dry season due to massive flooding in the wet. However, travel in the wet season takes on a different aspect. All towns have an airstrip as do most cattle stations. Commercial flights operate throughout the year from Cairns to all major centres, with charter flights also available to and from most destinations. Sea transport is also available throughout the year from Cairns to Thursday Island and Seisia (Bamaga). Weipa is accessible by sea from Karumba.

The average temperature is about 30 degrees throughout the year with humidity levels rising during the wetter months. Hot breezes sweep through the inland during the dry months. For up to date weather conditions please visit the Bureau of Meteorology.