Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: Thrilling Wildlife Encounters in Queensland, Australia

At Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, there are exciting opportunities for adventure and wildlife encounters.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is a renowned destination in Australia where you can embark on thrilling and educational experiences with these magnificent reptiles.

At Hartley’s, you can expect

Crocodile Farm Tours: Explore the crocodile farm and get a close look at these impressive creatures. Learn about their behaviours and habitats.

Cassowary Feeding: Witness the striking cassowary being fed, a rare and captivating sight.

Snake Show: Discover the world of snakes and their vital role in the ecosystem through an engaging show.

Crocodile Feeding: Experience the adrenaline rush as you watch crocodiles being fed, showcasing their power and agility.

Koala Talk: Learn about these adorable marsupials and their unique characteristics.

Wildlife Exhibits: Explore the extensive boardwalks and pathways winding through Melaleuca Wetlands, Eucalypt Woodland, and Riverine Rainforest. Encounter a wide variety of native and exotic animals, including Komodo Dragons, Alligators, Cassowaries, Wombats, Koalas, Emus, Lizards, Kangaroos, and Wallabies.

Boat Cruises: Enjoy a scenic boat cruise where you can appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings from the water. No booking is required; your boat time will be assigned upon arrival.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures as so many attractions

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures offers a diverse range of activities and wildlife encounters, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Come and immerse yourself in the wonders of Australia’s wildlife while learning about the vital role of crocodile conservation.

Here’s a snapshot of the daily activities that await you

9.00 am: Crocodile Farm tour

Begin your day with a fascinating tour of the crocodile farm, where you can get up close with these incredible reptiles and learn about their habits and habitat.

9.00 am: Cassowary Feeding

Don’t miss the chance to witness the striking cassowary being fed, a truly unique and mesmerising experience.

10.00 am: Snake Show

The Snake Show is a must-see for those who find serpents fascinating. Learn about these slithery creatures and their important role in the ecosystem.

11.00 am: Crocodile Feeding

Get your adrenaline pumping as you watch the crocodiles being fed. It’s a thrilling spectacle you won’t want to miss.

1.00 pm: Crocodile Farm Tour

Take another tour of the crocodile farm in the afternoon to deepen your understanding of these remarkable reptiles.

2.00 pm: Snake Show

If you missed the morning Snake Show, catch it in the afternoon for an educational and captivating experience.

3.00 pm: Crocodile Attack Show

Prepare to be amazed by the Crocodile Attack Show, a highlight of your visit. Witness the raw power and agility of these incredible creatures.

4.00 pm: Cassowary Feeding

It’s another chance to see the impressive cassowary being fed, a moment that will leave you in awe.

4.30 pm: Koala Talk Wrap

Wrap up your day with a delightful Koala Talk, where you can learn about these adorable marsupials and their unique characteristics.

During busy periods, additional wildlife presentations may be scheduled, so be sure to check the blackboard at Admissions upon your arrival to make the most of your visit.

In between shows or if you prefer to explore independently, stroll along the 2500 metres of boardwalks and pathways that wind through the beautiful Melaleuca Wetlands, Eucalypt Woodland, and Riverine rainforest. Here, you’ll encounter a diverse range of native and exotic animals, including Komodo Dragons, Alligators, Cassowaries, Wombats, Koalas, Emus, Lizards, Kangaroos, and Wallabies.

Please note that there may be capacity limits for the Gallery of Living Art—Reptile Display.

Boat Cruise

For a different perspective, consider a boat cruise, which offers a unique way to experience the surroundings. Boat cruise bookings are not required, as your boat time will be allocated upon your arrival. The boat cruise typically lasts around 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area from the water.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to every adventurer and nature enthusiast. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the wonders of Australia’s wildlife and natural landscapes.

About Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is a true gem in the Cairns region, with a rich history dating back to 1934. It all started as a humble tea house, providing a welcoming respite for tired travellers journeying along the newly opened road connecting Cairns and Mossman.

Today, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures has evolved into a top-notch tourist attraction, celebrating an impressive 20 years of offering croctastic experiences. As you explore this remarkable destination, you’ll have the chance to encounter Australia’s iconic crocodiles and immerse yourself in the captivating natural beauty of the region.

At Cairns on a budget, we’re excited to partner with such exceptional operators as Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures to showcase the best of Australia to the world. It’s places like this that make our mission to build the best travel sites in Australia a reality, ensuring visitors have unforgettable experiences while discovering the incredible wonders of our beautiful country.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: History

The story of Hartley’s truly takes us back to the early 20th century, when the legend of this iconic attraction began to unfold.

Legend has it that the original owner, Pop Evans, had a unique way of entertaining motorists who stopped by. As travellers enjoyed freshly baked scones from the wood stove, Pop would mesmerise them by feeding Charlie, the resident crocodile. In doing so, he earned the distinction of being the first person in Australia to put on crocodile shows for the public.

Fast forward 88 years and Hartley’s world-famous Crocodile Attack Show continues to captivate audiences, just as it did in those early days. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of this remarkable place, where history and adventure come together to create unforgettable experiences.

Hartley’s has a remarkable history of pioneering crocodile conservation in Australia. It proudly holds the distinction of being the first place in the country to breed crocodiles in captivity successfully. This ground breaking work in crocodile conservation at Hartley’s Creek Zoo attracted attention from around the world.

Documentaries produced at Hartley’s played a crucial role in raising public awareness and sympathy for crocodile conservation efforts. This collective awareness eventually led to the protection of wild crocodiles in 1974, marking a significant milestone in Australian wild life conservation.

By then, Hartley’s had already established itself as one of North Queensland’s premier attractions. In 1987, the Freeman family undertook a renovation project, breathing new life into the zoo while retaining its original location. However, in 2002, a bold move was made as the brand new Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures opened its doors just 500 metres south of Hartley’s Creek. This new eco-attraction aims to provide authentic and sustainable crocodile experiences, setting a high standard for wildlife tourism.

 Award-winning North Queensland Attraction

Over the last two decades, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures has continued to flourish and evolve. It offers visitors a diverse range of innovative and up-close wildlife experiences, with a constant stream of new wildlife displays to keep things fresh and exciting.

Since its relocation in 2002, Hartley’s has earned numerous awards and accolades in recognition of its outstanding contributions to tourism and its pioneering architectural design. This recognition is a testament to its commitment to excellence and its dedication to showcasing the beauty and wonder of Australia’s natural treasures to the world.

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures FAQ’s

Q. What are the opening hours of Hartley's Crocodile Adventures?

A. Hartley’s is typically open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day of the year except for Christmas Day.

Q. How do I get to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures?

A. Hartley’s is located about 40 minutes north of Cairns and 25 minutes south of Port Douglas in Queensland, Australia. You can easily reach it by car.

Q. Do I need to make reservations for the boat cruise?

A. No, reservations for boat cruises are not required. Your boat time will be assigned when you arrive at the park.

Q. Are there any age or height restrictions for visitors?

A. Hartley’s welcomes visitors of all ages. However, some activities, like the Crocodile Attack Show, may have age or height restrictions for safety reasons.

Q. Can I buy tickets online in advance?

A. Yes, you can buy tickets online through this website. This can be an easy way to secure your entry in advance.

Q. Is there a restaurant or café on-site?

A. Yes, there is a café where you can enjoy a variety of meals and refreshments. It’s a great place to take a break during your visit.

Q. Are there wheelchair-accessible facilities available?

A. Yes, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures provides facilities and pathways that are accessible to wheelchair users, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their visit comfortably.

Q. Can I take photos during the shows and tours?

A. Yes, photography is generally allowed during most shows and tours. However, it’s advisable to check with the staff if there are any specific restrictions for certain activities.

Q. Are there any special programs or events for children?

A. Hartley’s offers educational and entertaining programs for children, making it a family-friendly attraction.

Q. What is the best time to visit to see the most wild life activity?

A. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to observe wild life activity. Animals tend to be more active during these cooler parts of the day.

These FAQs should provide you with helpful information for planning your visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. If you have any specific questions or require further details, please contact us.

Highlights

  • Hartley’s Lagoon
  • Wildlife Discovery Trail
  • Gondwana Gateway
  • Cassowary Walk
  • Hartley’s Creek Crocodile Farm


Itinerary

Hartleys Show Times

  • 9:00 am – Cassowary Feeding
  • 9:00 am – Crocodile Farm Tour
  • 10:00 am – Snake Show
  • 11:00 am – Crocodile Feeding
  • 1:00 pm – Crocodile Farm Tour
  • 2:00 pm – Snake Show
  • 3:00 pm – Crocodile Attack Show
  • 4:00 pm – Cassowary Feeding
  • 4:30 pm – Koala Talk

 

Wildlife Photos

  • 10:30 am & 1:30 pm – Koala Pat Photos – Pat a koala while they sit on their perch.
  • 11:30 am & 2:30 pm – Koala Hold Photos – Hold a Koala for your photo
  • 10:00 am to 4:00 pm – Python & Croc Holding Photos (except during Koala Photo Sessions)

Freshie Feed

After the 11:00 am Crocodile Feeding, get the chance to pole feed your own Croc! Available only from October to April.


Included

The Admission Fee to Hartleys Crocodile Farm includes a Boat Cruise through Hartleys Lagoon. On arrival at the park, you will be advised of your allocated cruise time.


Optional Extras

All Photos and Feeds are booked and paid for directly at the Park Admission counter.

Koala Holding Photos

  • $29.00 – Singles (one person holding Koala)
  • $36.00 – Couples (Two persons in photo, One person holding Koala)

Koala Patting Photos

  • $21.00 – Singles (one person standing next to a Koala sitting on a branch)
  • $29.00 – Couples/Family (2-5 persons stand next to Koala sitting on a branch)

Python & Croc Holding Photos

  • $23.00 – per person. Available between 10:00am-4:00pm except during Koala Photo Sessions

Freshie Feed

  • $15.00 – Available October to April, after the 11:00am Crocodile Feeding Show


What to bring

  • Sensible walking shoes
  • Bottle of water
  • Entry to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
  • A wheelchair is available for customers at no charge


Important Information

  • Must be booked by 4.00 pm the day prior.  Subject to availability.
  • We cannot guarantee the above-mentioned animals are available on the day.
  • Start times may change.  Time advised on booking.
  • The minimum age for participants:
    • Big Croc Feed, minimum age 16 years.
    • Reptastic 5 minimum age of 10 years. (Must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also doing the Reptastic 5 experience)
    •  Zootastic 5 and Feathertastic: 10 years. (Must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also doing the Zootastic 5 experience)
    • Mammal Magic: 6 years. (Must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also doing the Mammal Magic experience)
  • The maximum number of participants:
    • Big Croc Feed: 4 persons
    • Reptastic 5, Zootastic 5, Mammal Magic and Feathertastic: 6 persons
  • Cost includes entry, personalised tour, boat cruise and public presentations.
  • Children must be at least 1.2 metres tall to hold a Koala by themselves.
  • No child price for Feathertastic, Reptastic 5, Zootastic 5.  Only paying participants may join the Feathertastic, Zootastic 5, Reptastic 5 tour.


Departs

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