Cahills Crossing Viewpoint
Witness dozens of saltwater crocodiles at this iconic tidal crossing in Kakadu National Park, a thrilling display of nature's raw power.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crocs gather to hunt fish
Cahills Crossing Viewpoint
Best Time
Crocs gather to hunt fish
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness dozens of saltwater crocodiles at this iconic tidal crossing in Kakadu National Park, a thrilling display of nature's raw power.
"Sensational doesn't describe it enough. Fantastic display of nature at its finest."
🎯 Stay Safe: Never Exit Vehicle
Always remain in your vehicle or on designated platforms. Crocodiles are fast and opportunistic predators .
⏰ Time Your Visit for High Tide
Crocodiles are most active and visible during the turn of the tide, especially high tide .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crocodile Spectacle
East Alligator River
Witness dozens of saltwater crocodiles congregating and hunting fish during the tidal changes. A truly wild and awe-inspiring natural display.
Tidal River Crossing
East Alligator River causeway
Observe vehicles, including large trucks, bravely navigating the submerged causeway during low tide. A testament to the power of nature and human ingenuity.
Barramundi Fishing
Banks of the East Alligator River
Watch local anglers try their luck fishing for barramundi, often in close proximity to the waiting crocodiles. A thrilling display of skill and risk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Crocodiles
Timing is Crucial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stay Safe: Never Exit Vehicle
Always remain in your vehicle or on designated platforms. Crocodiles are fast and opportunistic predators.+1
⏰ Time Your Visit for High Tide
Crocodiles are most active and visible during the turn of the tide, especially high tide.
🚗 Vehicle Crossing Caution
Only cross during low tide. Be aware that water levels can rise rapidly, swamping vehicles.+1
📸 Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a safe distance for photography. Do not feed or provoke the crocodiles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stay Safe: Never Exit Vehicle
Always remain in your vehicle or on designated platforms. Crocodiles are fast and opportunistic predators.+1
⏰ Time Your Visit for High Tide
Crocodiles are most active and visible during the turn of the tide, especially high tide.
🚗 Vehicle Crossing Caution
Only cross during low tide. Be aware that water levels can rise rapidly, swamping vehicles.+1
📸 Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a safe distance for photography. Do not feed or provoke the crocodiles.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
The Top End can be hot and humid. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the sheer number of crocodiles at Cahills Crossing, calling it a sensational display of nature. The opportunity to witness these apex predators hunting during tidal changes and observe vehicles bravely crossing the submerged road are major highlights. While the raw power of nature is captivating, the inherent dangers are frequently mentioned, with a strong emphasis on safety and respecting the wildlife.
"Big car park, short, flat walk to the main viewing area. Plenty of space, decent shade, some benches to sit. Great views of all the crocs in the river on both sides of the crossing. And the occasional vehicle crossing or fisherman trying their luck!"
Richard Litchfield
"Love this place to sit and watch the crocodiles. The locals fishing for Barra is also fantastic to see. Watching the turn of the tides is very interesting and watching cars crossing."
200 and a Van
"Very interesting place watching the crocs hunt for fish. As the tide turns so do the reptiles from one side of the crossto the other. Good viewing platforms and some phone reception."
dave Rech
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cahills Crossing is located in Kakadu National Park, about a 3-hour drive from Darwin. You'll need to drive towards Jabiru and then follow signs for Cahills Crossing. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for accessing the park and surrounding areas.
While the main road to Jabiru is sealed, a 4WD is highly recommended for exploring Kakadu National Park and for safely crossing Cahills Crossing itself, especially during the wet season or when water levels are high.+1
No, you can only cross Cahills Crossing during low tide. The road is submerged during high tide, making it impassable and dangerous. Always check tide times before you go.
Cahills Crossing is a tidal causeway that crosses the East Alligator River. It is often submerged during high tide and can be rough. Vehicles can get swamped if they attempt to cross at the wrong time.+1
Yes, there is a car park available at Cahills Crossing, which can accommodate cars and vans. It's a short, flat walk to the main viewing areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need a Kakadu National Park visitor pass to enter the park, which includes Cahills Crossing. These can be purchased at the Kakadu Visitor Centre in Jabiru or online.
Cahills Crossing is accessible 24/7, but it is only safe to cross during low tide. The best time for wildlife viewing is during the tidal changes.
The cost is for the Kakadu National Park entry pass. Prices vary depending on the duration of your visit. Check the official Kakadu National Park website for current fees.
You can purchase your Kakadu National Park entry pass online in advance to save time upon arrival at the park.
The main restriction is crossing during high tide due to safety concerns. Always adhere to park signage and ranger advice.+1
📸 📸 Photography
The designated viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points for photographing the crocodiles and the river crossing. You can also get good shots from the car park area.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended to capture clear shots of the crocodiles from a safe distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the dramatic river crossing scenes.
Yes, you can use your phone for photos, but always be aware of your surroundings. Some areas have phone reception. Keep your phone secure and avoid leaning out of windows.
No, it is extremely dangerous to get close to the crocodiles. Always maintain a safe distance and use your zoom lens for photography.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. However, the action of crocodiles hunting during high tide is the main draw at any time of day.
🎫 🐊 Wildlife Encounters
You can expect to see a large number of saltwater crocodiles, with counts ranging from 10-20 to over 40 on busy days, especially during peak seasons.
While crocodiles are the main attraction, you might also see various fish species like barramundi, and various birdlife along the riverbanks.
The most dangerous aspect is the presence of saltwater crocodiles and the risk of vehicles being swamped by the tide, leading to potential loss of life.+1
If a crocodile is on the road, do not approach it. If you are in a vehicle, wait for it to move or for the tide to change. If you are on foot, retreat to a safe viewing platform or your vehicle immediately.
Fishing is permitted in designated areas, but it is extremely risky due to the high concentration of crocodiles. Always be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from the water's edge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 4WD Enthusiasts & Adventurers
🎣 Anglers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dangers of Cahills Crossing
Travelers are consistently warned to never exit their vehicles when near the water's edge and to only attempt to cross during low tide.
Key takeaway: Cahills Crossing is a place to observe nature's raw power from a safe distance. Prioritize safety above all else, and always heed local advice and signage. The thrill of seeing these magnificent creatures should never come at the expense of your well-being.
Best Viewing Strategies
Designated viewing platforms offer safe and elevated perspectives of the river and its inhabitants.
For photographers, a telephoto lens is essential to capture clear, detailed shots of the crocodiles from a safe distance.
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