
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
Experience the thrill of close encounters with crocodiles and discover Australia's unique wildlife in a safe and educational environment.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See animals at their most active

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
Best Time
See animals at their most active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of close encounters with crocodiles and discover Australia's unique wildlife in a safe and educational environment.
"A fantastic wildlife park to see crocs up close and enjoy a boat ride on their tranquil lagoon."

🎯 Plan your day with show times
Grab a park map and note down show times to maximize your experience. :clipboard:
🚤 Don't miss the boat cruise!
The lagoon boat tour offers a unique perspective on crocodiles. :boat:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crocodile Shows & Feeding
Various show arenas
Witness the power of saltwater crocodiles with thrilling shows and feeding demonstrations. Get up close and personal with these ancient reptiles.

Lagoon Boat Cruise
Lagoon
Glide through a tranquil lagoon for a unique perspective on crocodiles in their natural habitat. A must-do for an immersive experience.

Reptile Encounters
Reptile exhibits
Explore a diverse collection of snakes and other reptiles. Learn about their fascinating adaptations and behaviors.

Australian Wildlife Viewing
Various enclosures
See iconic Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos. Some visitors even enjoyed breakfast with koalas!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Plan Your Day
Embrace the Wild: Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan your day with show times
Grab a park map and note down show times to maximize your experience. :clipboard:
🚤 Don't miss the boat cruise!
The lagoon boat tour offers a unique perspective on crocodiles. :boat:
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the park. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Stay hydrated and protected
Bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan your day with show times
Grab a park map and note down show times to maximize your experience. :clipboard:
🚤 Don't miss the boat cruise!
The lagoon boat tour offers a unique perspective on crocodiles. :boat:
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the park. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Stay hydrated and protected
Bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the moments
Plenty of photo opportunities with the wildlife. :camerawithflash:
🍔 Consider park food
The burgers are surprisingly good, even if you're on a budget. :hamburger:
🎟️ Re-entry is possible
Entry tickets often allow re-entry for up to 3 days. :admission_tickets:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hartley's Crocodile Adventures for its thrilling crocodile shows, informative presentations, and the unique lagoon boat cruise. The opportunity to see other Australian wildlife like koalas and kangaroos is also a significant draw. While some find it crowded during peak times, the overall experience is considered great value and highly recommended for a full day of wildlife encounters.
"Great experience with a lot of things to see. Not only crocs, but also snakes, koalas and a lot more!
Loved the snake and croc shows.
Super crowded on school holidays. 6 sits in a row on the boat, so if you are placed last you are likely to be far away from the action behind people trying to film. Expect queues everywhere and maybe skip one with BYO lunch."
Jim Kim
"Went here for my birthday and it was amazing!! Breakfast with koalas in the morning such a special experience the tour guide was very knowledgeable. Boat tour was great and the crocodile feeding shows were even better. Great park can’t wait to visit again."
Kacey Ritchie
"its been a little while since my last visit. 60 years. Its pretty different, seriously. the people doing the croc displays are just as insane as the ones I recall from my youth.
this is great value because it really is a full day of stuff (during school hols, no idea rest of year).
crocs, eagles (sometimes) snakes, its the full australian something will kill yo excepy spiders and sharks.
I have to give credit to the burger. Frankly, I would not stop to purchase their burger, BUT if I compare with other venues where you are captive this is great. Cos lettuce and fresg cooked, onlu gripe. Use dill cucumber not gherkin pls.
My advice, get there early and spend the whole day"
Wayne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is located about a 40-minute drive north of Cairns. You can drive yourself, take a taxi or rideshare, or book a tour that includes transportation. Many visitors opt for a day trip from Cairns or Port Douglas.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures for visitors who drive.
Absolutely! Hartley's is conveniently located between Cairns and Port Douglas, making it an easy day trip from either location.
While direct public transport might be limited, many tour operators and shuttle services run from Cairns and Port Douglas, offering convenient transport options.
The drive from Cairns to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is approximately 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing. Many visitors find it to be great value for a full day of activities.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the entrance, but booking in advance, especially during peak seasons or school holidays, is advisable to secure your spot.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or families. It's worth checking their website or contacting them directly for any current promotions.
Generally, your entry ticket includes access to most shows, presentations, and the lagoon boat cruise. However, it's always best to confirm what's included with your specific ticket purchase.
Yes, many entry tickets allow for re-entry over a period of up to 3 days, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the thrilling crocodile shows and feeding demonstrations, the immersive lagoon boat cruise, and the chance to see other Australian wildlife like koalas and kangaroos.
Expect engaging and educational shows featuring crocodiles, snakes, and birds of prey. The crocodile shows are particularly popular for their close encounters.
Absolutely! The 20-minute boat tour on the lagoon offers a unique and safe way to observe crocodiles and other wildlife in their natural environment.
While direct interaction with crocodiles is limited to shows, you can see koalas and kangaroos up close, and some visitors have enjoyed special experiences like breakfast with koalas.
Yes, Hartley's is very family-friendly. The educational aspects and exciting shows entertain both kids and adults alike.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hartley's offers dining facilities, including a cafe that serves meals and snacks. Some visitors have praised their burgers.
While outside food and drinks might be permitted, it's best to check their policy. Some reviews suggest that bringing your own lunch can be a good way to save money, especially during busy periods.
Information on specific dietary options is not widely available, but it's recommended to inquire at the cafe upon arrival or check their menu if available online.
Prices for food can be typical for attractions where you are a captive audience. Bringing your own snacks or lunch might be a more budget-friendly option.
While they feature crocodiles prominently, it's not confirmed if crocodile meat is on the menu for consumption.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! From the crocodile enclosures and shows to the lagoon and the various Australian animals, there are countless photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed during the shows, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb the animals.
While most areas are fine for photos, it's always good practice to check for any specific signage regarding photography, especially in sensitive animal areas.
A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing clear shots of the animals from a safe distance. However, even a smartphone can capture great memories.
While direct photo ops with crocodiles are rare for safety reasons, you can get close for photos of koalas, kangaroos, and other wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to grab a park map upon arrival and plan your day around the show schedules to keep the little ones entertained and avoid meltdowns. The opportunity to see koalas and kangaroos adds to the appeal, providing a broader wildlife experience beyond just crocodiles. Consider arriving early, especially during school holidays, to beat the crowds and make the most of your family's visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look into whether your ticket allows for re-entry over multiple days, which can be a smart way to spread out your visit and get the most out of your admission fee. Many visitors find the experience to be well worth the cost for the unique wildlife encounters and educational opportunities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to get clear images of the animals from a safe distance. Don't forget to capture the unique Australian wildlife like koalas and kangaroos as well. Be mindful of lighting conditions and any specific photography restrictions, but generally, the park is very accommodating for visitors wanting to document their experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Croc Shows
Many reviews mention the handlers' 'insane' bravery, reminiscent of past visits, which adds to the excitement. The close proximity to the crocodiles, sometimes within inches of their teeth, is a recurring theme in visitor feedback, emphasizing the unique nature of these presentations. It's a chance to see these magnificent animals in action and appreciate their raw power from a safe vantage point.
Safety and Education
While the shows are thrilling, Hartley's emphasizes safety. The staff are knowledgeable about the crocodiles and ensure that visitors are aware of the real dangers present in croc country. This educational aspect is highly valued by visitors, as it provides a deeper understanding of the wildlife and the environment. The park aims to balance the excitement of close encounters with responsible wildlife education.
Exploring the Lagoon by Boat
Unlike the high-energy shows, the boat cruise offers a more relaxed pace, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the environment. Guides on the boat often share interesting facts about the crocodiles and the surrounding ecosystem, enhancing the educational value of the experience. The seating arrangement on the boat is designed to give everyone a good view, though if you're seated towards the back, you might be behind others trying to film.
A Different Perspective
This boat tour is included with your entry ticket, making it excellent value. It’s a chance to see the crocodiles in a less controlled environment than the show arenas, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. Many visitors find this to be a peaceful and memorable part of their visit, complementing the more dynamic presentations offered elsewhere in the park.
Beyond the Crocodiles: Australian Wildlife
The park also features exhibits with various snakes and reptiles, showcasing the diversity of Australia's scaly inhabitants. These displays provide an excellent opportunity to learn about different species, their habitats, and their importance in the ecosystem. The educational aspect is a strong focus, with staff often sharing insights and answering questions about the animals.
A Full Australian Experience
Seeing these iconic Australian animals adds another layer to the Hartley's experience, making it a comprehensive wildlife encounter. It’s a chance to appreciate the broader biodiversity of the region beyond just the formidable crocodiles. The park aims to provide a well-rounded introduction to the unique fauna of Far North Queensland.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit