Get Up Close with Crocs at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
🌐 Website: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
📍 Location: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Captain Cook Highway, Wangetti Qld 4877
⏰ Opening Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm daily
⏳ Duration: 1 – 2 hours (or longer if you’re keen!)
👨👩👧👦 Family friendly
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: A Wild Encounter in Tropical North Queensland
f you’ve ever wanted to get up close with crocs in a thrilling but safe environment, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures in Tropical North Queensland is the place to do it. Located just north of Cairns, this wildlife park offers unforgettable close encounters with saltwater crocodiles, plus koalas, cassowaries, snakes, and more.
Why Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures Is Worth Visiting in Queensland
If you’re craving an unforgettable Aussie wildlife experience, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the real deal. Located just 40 minutes north of Cairns, this award-winning eco-park is more than just crocodiles (though trust us — they’re the stars of the show!).
Where else can you:
-
Cruise through a crocodile-infested lagoon
-
Watch salties launch themselves from the water in a feeding frenzy
-
Hold a koala or python
-
And learn about conservation in a way that’s fun and hands-on?
Whether you’re road-tripping the Great Barrier Reef coast or heading to Port Douglas, this spot is a must-stop!
Top Things to See and Do at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
There’s no shortage of thrills here — but it’s all done safely (phew). Here’s what not to miss:
-
Crocodile Boat Cruise – Take a guided boat ride through the lagoon where massive saltwater crocs lurk just beneath the surface.
-
Croc Attack Show – Get your heart racing as keepers feed monster crocs with jaw-dropping power.
-
Cassowary Walk – Meet the famously fierce cassowary and learn why they’re so vital to rainforest health.
-
Wildlife Encounters – Snap a photo with a cuddly koala or slinky snake (optional extras).
-
Snake Shows & Farm Tours – Learn about venomous reptiles and how croc farming contributes to conservation.
This isn’t just a look-but-don’t-touch attraction. It’s immersive, exciting, and unexpectedly educational.
Who Will Enjoy This Experience?
-
Families – Kids LOVE the action-packed croc shows and boat rides.
-
Wildlife Lovers – You’ll meet everything from wombats to wallabies.
-
Photographers – Expect epic croc shots, close-ups of native birds, and lush tropical backdrops.
-
Travellers Seeking Authentic Aussie Adventures – Skip the zoos — this place offers wild fun with a conservation message.
Visitor Tips & FAQs for Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
🧭 Planning Your Visit
What is the address of Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and how do I get there?
📍 Captain Cook Highway, Wangetti QLD 4877
You’ll find Hartley’s halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas, making it a perfect detour on a coastal road trip. It’s an easy 40-minute drive from Cairns or 25 minutes from Port Douglas.
What are the opening hours of Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
Open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry at 4:00 pm.
👉 Visit the official Hartley’s website for up-to-date tour times and ticket prices.
How much time should I plan to spend at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
You’ll want at least 2 hours, but 3–4 hours is ideal to catch all the shows, take a cruise, and explore at a relaxed pace.
When is the best time of year to visit Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
The dry season (May to October) offers cooler temps and fewer mozzies. Early morning visits mean fewer crowds and more active animals.
🚗 Getting There & Accessibility
How do I get to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures from Cairns?
Drive north on the Captain Cook Highway — the scenery alone is worth the trip! It’s about 40 minutes by car. Tours also operate from Cairns and Port Douglas.
Is there parking available at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
Yes, there’s free on-site parking, with room for cars and campervans.
Is Hartley’s accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes. Paths are mostly flat and sealed. Wheelchair-accessible toilets are available, and the lagoon cruise is wheelchair-friendly too.
Are there any transport or mobility services available at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures-site?
Not at this time — but call ahead if you have specific needs. The friendly team is happy to help.
🧳 What to Bring & Know
What should I bring when visiting Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
What should I bring?
- Sunscreen & hat
- Water bottle
- Camera or smartphone
- Insect repellent (especially in wet season)
Comfortable walking shoes
Are food and drinks available at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
Yes! The Lily Pad Café serves up burgers, wraps, ice cream, and barista coffee. There’s also a scenic deck to chill out on after your croc encounter.
👀 What to Expect
What can I see or do at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
Aside from crocs, you’ll spot snakes, koalas, wombats, cassowaries, and even freshwater crocodiles. The shows are timed throughout the day — check the board on arrival or plan ahead via the website.
Are guided tours available at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures?
The boat cruise is guided and included with your ticket. Wildlife presentations happen daily, and staff are always happy to answer questions between shows.
Where to Stay Near Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
Thala Beach Nature Reserve – Eco-resort with treehouse-style bungalows and private beach access.
Reef Resort Villas Port Douglas – Great for families, with spacious rooms and pools.
What to do near Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures :
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway – Glide over the ancient Daintree rainforest canopy.
Kuranda Village – Visit markets, butterfly sanctuaries, and waterfalls.
Where to Eat Near Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures:
The Beach Shack, Palm Cove – Relaxed vibes and woodfired pizzas just 20 minutes south.
Choo Choos at the Marina, Port Douglas – Waterfront café known for brunch and tropical smoothies.
Popular Tours To Book
3-Day Cape York Scenic Air Tour from Cairns Including Cooktown, Lizard Island and the Great Barrier Reef
- 3 Days
- From AUD$4,915.55
Subscribe for Bucket List updates
