Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures
4.5
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Located just 40 minutes north of Cairns and 25 minutes south of Port Douglas, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is simply the best place to see crocodiles and local wildlife in Tropical North Queensland. With over 2100 metres of timber boardwalks and pathways leading you on a journey of discovery through woodlands and rainforest where you can see an array of wildlife, including beautiful tropical birds, reptiles, insects and other native fauna.Enjoy our entertaining and educational wildlife presentations including snakes, cassowaries, koalas, crocodiles, quolls and much more. Take a boat cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon to see crocodiles and other wildlife on our melaleuca wetland. Learn about sustainable use and conservation on our Crocodile Farm tour. The newly opened Gondwana Gateway is an innovative addition to Hartley’s where you can learn about the evolution of Australian wildlife in a beautiful forest setting surrounded by living descendants of Australia’s ancient past. Enjoy a delicious snack in Lilies Restaurant overlooking Hartley’s Lagoon and find that perfect gift, including crocodile leather products, in the Paperbark Gift Shop. Open daily from 8:30am to 5:00pm, this multi-award winning eco-adventure attraction is located just 100 metres off the Captain Cook Highway on the spectacular scenic drive between Cairns and Port Douglas.
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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from $30.05
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See what travelers are saying
- Diantha WSalt Lake City, Utah137 contributionsGreat place to learn about animalsWe had a great tour led by Jess. She taught us about Australia’s marsupials then introduced us up close to a baby crocodile. She also led the “crocodile attack” demonstration with Hagrid the crocodile. Her interpretation was excellent, especially since Hagrid was being exceptionally stealthy. She answered all of our questions and we learned a lot about these animals as well as the process of humanely crocodile farming. The demonstration was impressive—all the while she educated us, Jess interacted with a large predator who’s techniques have made them successful for millions of years. This was also our only chance to see cassowaries.We warmly appreciate your recognition of Jess our team member. Very cool that you had such a wide range of experiences with us. How great that you got to see a cassowary with us too.Written April 16, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Traveled with friendsWritten April 2, 2023
- Danielle MLaunceston, Australia107 contributionsAmazing trip to this park!Loved our visit! We wandered around the park and saw lots of animals. We also went on the boat ride with a local guide where we learnt lots about crocodiles and saw crocodiles being fed. Such an amazing experience! We also went to the Croc attack show. The guide or man who led this show (Eden) was funny, knowledgeable and an awesome person! We learnt so much and watching this show was fabulous. We had lunch at the cafe which was yummy although they seemed very slow in serving and preparing food. Otherwise, staff very friendly and we loved our visit!Sincere thanks for your feedback and support. We are delighted that you enjoyed our willdife, famous Croc Attack Show and Lilies Restaurant. I'd make the point that we are preparing food 'fresh'. Yes, there are places that will put out fast food, but often it is pre-cooked and just reheated. Our approach is a lovely fresh meal and that does take a little more time. You are in such a lovely setting, just enjoy it, and the company of your friends.Written April 23, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Written April 22, 2023
- Judy S16 contributionsExcellent experienceFantastic- hundreds of crocodiles, lots of other animals, crocodile shows and a great cafe. The crocodile ribs lunch with chips was delicious and very reasonably priced. No drinking water stations on site thought so bring plenty of drinking water if you don’t want to buy this.Hi Judy. We sincerely thank you for your very positive comments. Actually the tap water from the taps near the restaurant is filtered and potable. It is slightly discolored because the water comes from the nearby Creek. We are not currently set up to reticulate drinking water. A big project that was put on hold when all our funds were spent keeping our staff and our business going during the Covid recovery. It is on the plans but is not easy in a remote location.Written May 13, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Traveled with familyWritten April 25, 2023
- 788jacquir6 contributionsFabulous croc adventure at Harley's great venue great peopleHave been several times to this unique attraction. Every time it is fabulous. Great staff, great shows, reasonable prices, fabulous all round Food is pretty good and reasonably priced as wellGreat to hear and so glad you've returned.Written August 1, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 29, 2023
- Peter M2 contributionsGreat expetienceThis was around the best experience we had in Cairns. All the shows were great especially the Croc attack and the Croc feeding shows. The Cassowary feeding was more laid back but still interesting to feed these large birds. The person doing the Snake show was also very entertaining and informative. You get a free ride on the boat on the local lagoon seeing crocs in their natural habitat. The viewing stadiums are well designed overall but are probably getting a little small for the increasing crowds so get to a show early so a to get a good seat. Good value for money.Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten August 7, 2023
- Meander498750390011 contributionBig Croc Feed was AMAZING!!We went to Hartley’s as a family & my husband chose to do the Croc Big Feed experience & it was amazing! Mario our tour guide was fabulous, he was very informative, went above & beyond and even allowed for the kids to have a turn of feeding the big crocs, a memory that will stay with them for years. All staff were friendly with great sense of humours, a must place to visit!Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten August 23, 2023
- Kirsten40 contributions5 Stars for the Private Tour!When we first pulled up, I admit, I thought this stop would be a bit “touristy”. Fortunately, we had tickets for the private tour and it was AMAZING! We had a fabulous guide, Kenzie, for the tour and she did an fantastic job! We petted kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats, held a Koala and fed some Cassowary birds and Crocs! Kenzie was extremely knowledge, safe, clearly dedicated to the care of the animals and passionate about her work. The entire experience was extremely private and very well run. I do not think we would have enjoyed wandering by ourselves as much. The cafe was lovely and we ended the visit by watching an awesome croc show! The brave and fun Rachel conducted the show and wow was it exciting! You have a fantastic staff and the animals seem very well cared for which is lovely to see. Great experience!Such excellent feedback. The team will be delighted to read your comments.Written February 10, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 7, 2023
- Merv SUpper Coomera, Australia1 contributionThe BEST Crocodile experience EVERWe thouroughly enjoyed our time here and our expecations were exceeded. We had collectively been to 2 other Crocodile Farms and this was by far BETTER than either of them, including Australia Zoo. The boat tour felt like we were literally cruising around in the wild with the crocodiles. The 11am Croc Feeding was outstanding, informative and thoroughly entertaining. The whole experience at Hartley's felt natural, warm and inviting. The staff were incredibly informative but also funny, personable, yet also very professional! Our favourite guide or worker was Eden, he deserves a huge congrats for making this experience so enjoyable for us!Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 9, 2023
- StrumdudeBridgend, United Kingdom13 contributionsCrocs and Koalas. What’s not to love?!The park is fairly compact and well signposted. The shows are timed so you can fit everything in. The keepers are approachable, informative and engaging. The animals seem well cared for. Food and drink are reasonably priced especially for an attraction. We did what we wanted in 4 hours, but could easily have spent most of the day there. Highly recommend a visit.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 11, 2023
- HellzBellz74Bendigo, Australia4 contributionsCrocs, snakes, cuddly koalas and a very friendly Bower Bird !A fantastic day out watching Aussie animals at their best ! Did the breakfast with koalas where we got to have a photo taken and pat tiny the little koala, cruise with the Crocs, watched the Croc and snake shows and walked around this well kept adventure park. The food catered for all types and the hospitality was great. Very friendly staff. A must see if you are up this way.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 15, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
4,674 reviews
Excellent
3,547
Very good
951
Average
127
Poor
25
Terrible
24
Sandra N
2 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
Highly recommend you take the time to visit this park. You will not be disappointed in the number of crocodiles you see and how the staff interacts with them
In addition, you will see koalas, kangaroos, wombats, flying foxes, birds of prey and more.
The staff is engaging and knowledgeable about the animals.
A bonus is the one ticket is good for 3 days in the event you were unable to take it all in during a single visit.
In addition, you will see koalas, kangaroos, wombats, flying foxes, birds of prey and more.
The staff is engaging and knowledgeable about the animals.
A bonus is the one ticket is good for 3 days in the event you were unable to take it all in during a single visit.
Written January 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How very kind of you. Such a sincere and thoughtful recommendation. And thanks for mentioning our great three day pass too.
Written February 10, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vicky T
Brisbane, Australia37 contributions
Dec 2020 • Couples
My husband had visited Hartley’s as a child (45 years ago) and was keen to go back on our Port Douglas holiday. He was not disappointed. We both thought it was a great experience. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable and happy to chat. The animals were healthy and the grounds were well cared for. They were not particularly busy but were busier than a few weeks ago (according to a staff member we chatted to). We saw so many crocodiles and other native wildlife, it was fascinating. Just a point that we weren’t previously aware of, there are no bubblers to fill up your water bottles, as they are not on town water, so bring extra water or be prepared to buy bottled water there.
Written December 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your great comments and yes, we are not on town water as they Council have never allocated funding for this to be done. Anyway, we make the best of our rain water collection and bore water but it does not suit everyone. Thanks so much for visiting after so many years. We really appreciate the support.
Written December 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
maliwoo
Canberra, Australia637 contributions
Jul 2022
What a great day out at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures. The day we went there were quite a lot of people, but it was well managed and everything ran smoothly.
The lagoon boat trip was a highlight.
We saw 2 crocodile shows and both wre really informative and showed the saltwater crocodiles amazing abilities.
We also liked the grounds and looking around all the different animals that you only see in FNQ.
Only quibble was that because of the crowds, there was a long queue for lunch and a long wait after you ordered. The food itself was fine when it arrived though.
An all around excellent day out.
The lagoon boat trip was a highlight.
We saw 2 crocodile shows and both wre really informative and showed the saltwater crocodiles amazing abilities.
We also liked the grounds and looking around all the different animals that you only see in FNQ.
Only quibble was that because of the crowds, there was a long queue for lunch and a long wait after you ordered. The food itself was fine when it arrived though.
An all around excellent day out.
Written August 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sincere appreciation 'Mailwoo' for your very positive feedback and understanding. Our food and beverage team are doing an amazing job in providing the service they do in terms of numbers of visitors. As I've explained in another reply, we built a second food area, so we could have that as an alternative when busy, but now almost everyone insists on cashless payments and because of our location, we cannot get any signal there. There is not a great deal more we can do at this time, because there is limited number of hospitality staff in North Queensland. Self catering is always find with us as long as such visitors use our upper deck 'garden area'.
Written August 5, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tracey M
Brisbane, Australia52 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
We absolutely loved this park. We travelled with our grandchildren ages 5&7 years old. There is so much to see and do! Staff were all so friendly and helpful. Highly recommend coming to Hartley’s for a visit. We will be back!!
Written August 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What more can we ask for? We find lots of Grandparents like to bring the little folk to our park and they are really enjoying the new Slither and Slide Adventure Zone too.. More surprises in store for the holidays. Thanks so much Tracey.
Written August 16, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Donna V
1 contribution
Jan 2023 • Family
Breakfast with Violet the sweet little Koala was a wonderful experience..The boat ride amoungst the crocs was an experience and our guide Thomas was a great informative funny guide ..The croc attack show was great must say the girls are very brave ..All the animals you get to see and the beautiful walking tracks are lovely ..I really recommend going we had a great day ..thanks to everyone at Hartley's crocodile park .
Written January 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Heartfelt thanks for your delightful comments about your Breakfast with the Koalas experience, boat ride and other activities. Your personal recommendation is greatly valued by us.
Written January 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
788jacquir
6 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
Have been several times to this unique attraction. Every time it is fabulous. Great staff, great shows, reasonable prices, fabulous all round
Food is pretty good and reasonably priced as well
Food is pretty good and reasonably priced as well
Written June 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great to hear and so glad you've returned.
Written August 1, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Flange2020
Melbourne, Australia352 contributions
Mar 2020
Best santuary in Australia.Close up and personal. FUNNY FUNNY STAFF!!!
returned again after only 1 yar and enjoyed even more.
Staff are best stand up comics ever. Crock attack man had us all in stitches.
Same last year.Ran out of pies by 12.30
Get some decent Mannings pies guys. The Mrs Macs are rubbish.
returned again after only 1 yar and enjoyed even more.
Staff are best stand up comics ever. Crock attack man had us all in stitches.
Same last year.Ran out of pies by 12.30
Get some decent Mannings pies guys. The Mrs Macs are rubbish.
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much Flange. So glad you enjoyed your visit and thanks heaps for returning. Yes we do have some very funny staff but they take their safety side very seriously. As for the pies, we are renovating our kitchen at the moment and so doing our best to estimate what is required. All should be back to normal early this week.
Written March 14, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Louise C
5 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
We had THE BEST morning here. Learnt a heap at the shows. Fed a freshwater croc, a cassowary and a kangaroo all before lunch!!
Shout out to Thomas on the boat for his banter and knowledge! All staff were lovely, I HIGHLY recommend this as a must do on your Cairns itinerary…
Shout out to Thomas on the boat for his banter and knowledge! All staff were lovely, I HIGHLY recommend this as a must do on your Cairns itinerary…
Written November 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great to hear. When you get BEST in captial letters, it is high praise indeed. Our team regularly comb through the reviews, but thanks Thomas for being the boatie with the mostie. Appreciate your recommendation.
Written December 29, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Haman G
3 contributions
Feb 2022
I did the Big Croc Feed. Totally worth it. I expected to feed one Croc. Instead I was given a tour of the whole place and ended up feeding over 5 crocs! Highly recommend. You get your moneys worth. Highlight of our Northern Queensland holiday.
Special thanks to Nick who made the experience extra special.
Special thanks to Nick who made the experience extra special.
Written February 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wow! So pleased to hear your positive comments for our popular Big Croc Feed experience. Great to hear that you had a fantastic experience.
Written March 4, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Migrant81
Townsville, Australia167 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Love crocodiles and wildlife and this place will give you that. The area and crocs enclosures are far better than other places I visited around the world. Loved the cruise and the guide, he was really funny and informative at the same time. Yes they farm crocodiles for skin and meat. I’m against it but was aware of it before going but I won’t let it stop me from being objective in my review
Written January 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Your objectivity and detailed comments are gratefully received, appreciated and we respect and appreciate your opinion. It is the beauty of a democratic society that all can have their views. We hope that we have communicated our position on sustainability and the connection between crocodile farming and conservation. Hopefully in the future we can continue this conversation, hear the basis of your objection and have the opportunity to come to a higher level of mutual understanding. Thanks for your time and very positive feedback.
Written February 12, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Want to come in December. Not sure how to get there because I think our cruise ship will be tendering us so a bit wary of pre booking a trip. Would also love to cuddle a koala, any suggestions would be appreciated.
Stellaml
Milan, Italy26 contributions
Is it possible to pick up a koala? Just for a minute
Angela F
Clifton Beach, Australia
Yes, this is an extra cost for the Koala holding photos. We have limited numbers of these and if we run out of this option, then we have a Koala patting photo option. You don't have to 'pick up' the Koala yourself, our experienced Keeper is with you the whole time to help.
Laura
4 contributions
Hi guys! I would like to see cassowary especially. Is it worth to pay the whole entrance fee just to see this bird (obviously, I'd appreciate to see other wildlife as well)? My visit in Australia will be short and I MUST see cassowary close and capture nice photos. Is it like 99% guaranteed to see cassowary close in Hartley's Cassowary Walk? I don't want to visit in any regular zoo for ethical reasons.
STEPHEN N
Cairns, Australia23,723 contributions
Like any other wildlife facility there's no guarantee animals are willing to be pampered or pose for happy pics.
Advisable to contact the facility & seek more details about the Cassowary.
Samantha V
8 contributions
Hello. My daughter is 8, will be 9 on the 28th. She is desperate to hold a baby crocodile. I told her that I think it is allowed. Is she able to hold a crocodile here? Thank you
STEPHEN N
Cairns, Australia23,723 contributions
yes you can hold a small Croc & have professional photos taken if you wish.
LaurieK
27 contributions
Hi, is there a bag check or place to keep a luggage item? I am trying to schedule a visit via the bus from Cairns airport. Thank you!
Angela F
18 contributions
Many thanks. Yes, we're happy to do this. We keep the bags generally in our office where they are right in front of us. I have some lock up storage area if you really need it.
Hi, we are planning to go to Australia July of 2018. Will the Hartley's in Cairns allow us to hold a koala and take a photo? Is the number of interaction still limited? Can we buy tickets in advance to ensure we don't run out?
Angela F
18 contributions
Yes you can cuddle a Koala at Hartley's. And yes if you follow through our web site direct booking system you can also book a Koala photo. Or go through to our web site. I'm not allowed to give your our email address.
How long is recommended for a visit ?
Angela F
18 contributions
It depends on your schedule. I would suggest you allow at least a half day, but you'll see from our reviews that lots of customers either spend the whole day or use the return pass to come back. If you come on a coach tour and would like to hire a car to explore further, you just check with our admission staff and they'll give you a return pass.
Clairejop
Melton Constable, UK138 contributions
Do you need to book in advance?
Angela F
18 contributions
No it is not necessary but it is always good to ensure you allow time to do all the activities and sometimes our boats rides are popular so just take this into account. If you are on a coach tour like Down Under Tours, BTS, Beaches Meet and Greet, GTS, Doki Doki, HIS for example, they will organise your boat passes in advance for you as part of the booking.
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