Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: Half-Day Wildlife Cruise & Keeper Shows near Cairns
Cruise Melaleuca wetlands, watch the Crocodile Attack show, and meet koalas and cassowaries on this five-hour half-day tour from Cairns. A compact, educational wildlife experience that pairs boat viewing with keeper presentations.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book morning transfers early
Pickup windows vary—confirm your exact hotel pickup time with the operator after booking and be ready 10 minutes early.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll spend time on open water and shady boardwalks—reef-safe SPF protects skin and the local marine environment.
Bring insect repellent
Mosquitoes are common around wetlands—apply repellent before arrival and reapply after the boat cruise.
Respect keeper boundaries
Shows are educational and safety-focused—follow staff direction and don’t approach enclosures.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the elevated boardwalks on the lagoon’s quieter side for less crowded birdwatching.
- •Spend extra time at the reptile centre to see smaller species and keeper talks outside main show times.
Wildlife
- •Saltwater (estuarine) crocodile
- •Southern cassowary
Conservation Note
The park participates in species recovery and education programs; visitors are encouraged to follow biosafety rules and stay on marked paths to protect habitats.
Originally a crocodile farm, Hartley’s evolved into an accredited ecotourism and conservation site and remains one of the few parks surrounded by World Heritage rainforest.
Photographer's Notes
- • Wetlands boat (for crocodile close-ups)
- • Elevated boardwalks overlooking the lagoon
- • Reptile centre viewing windows
What to Bring
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Shower squalls are common in the tropics—pack a thin rain shell to stay dry.
Sturdy walking shoes or sandalsEssential
Boardwalks and natural trails can be uneven; grip and support matter.
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)Essential
Protects against mosquitoes around wetlands, especially late afternoon.
Compact camera with zoom (or smartphone + zoom lens)
Zoom lets you photograph crocodiles and birds from safe viewing distances.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The half-day experience lasts about five hours total, including coach transfers and on-site activities.
Are shows included in the ticket?
Yes—entry includes access to wildlife shows, keeper talks and the wetlands boat cruise at scheduled times.
Is the park stroller or wheelchair accessible?
Many areas use timber boardwalks and are stroller-accessible; check with the operator about wheelchair access to specific viewing platforms.
Can I feed or touch the animals?
No—interactions are supervised and limited to keeper-led sessions (e.g., koala handling is by staff only) to ensure safety and animal welfare.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes—pickup and drop-off are included for Cairns and Northern Beaches; contact the supplier after booking to confirm your exact pickup location and time.
What should I bring for weather and insects?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a broad-brim hat, light rain jacket in wet season, and insect repellent—late afternoon increases mosquito activity.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Wangetti, Queensland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on flat boardwalks and light standing during shows.
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