Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is perfect place to see Australia’s native reptiles in their natural habitat, and to learn about North Queensland’s ancient rain forests. You’ll also see plenty of other wildlife including tropical birds and insects as you wander through this 10-hectare park. Boat excursions conduct you through the lagoon to view crocodiles and aquatic snakes, and the varied programme of daily presentations will introduce you to specific animal behaviours.
Follow the Wildlife Discovery Trail boardwalks through the park which will introduce you to the Estuarine (salt water) and Freshwater crocodiles. You’ll learn how these magnificent beasts live alongside birds, fish, turtles and lizards as interdependent members of this ecosystem. Don’t miss Australia’s iconic creature, the koala. Whilst they sleep most of the day, they never fail to wake up for their 4.30 p.m. feeding time!
Stroll through the Cassowary Garden, dedicated to these colourful and distinctive large flightless birds. You will learn all about their evolution over millions of years, and how they have adapted and grown with the surrounding rainforest.
Evolution is also the key theme of the Gondwana Gateway zone. Named after the pre-Jurassic southern supercontinent from which modern Australia was formed, this part of the park will explain how lengthy geographical isolation has resulted in the wonderfully diverse and specialised flora and fauna you see today. Discover quolls, wallabies and monitors, and learn how their physiology and behaviour are perfectly matched to their unique environment.
At the centre of the park, the amphitheatre and viewing deck host daily presentations such as the Snake Show and the Crocodile Attack Show. You may even get the chance to feed a crocodile yourself with meat suspended from the end of a pole: an experience you won’t forget in a hurry!
Hartley’s is also home to a commercial crocodile farm. A guided tour will show you how the whole process works, and if you are feeling hungry, you can even try a sustainably-sourced crocodile burger.
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is in Wangetti, a 40 minute drive north of Cairns. Free parking is available on site. Coach services also run from Cairns and Port Douglas. The park is open all year round except Christmas Day. An entrance fee is payable, and certain attractions incur an additional charge.
