The Big Crocodile
Height
Unknown
Year Built
Address
Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, Captain Cook Highway, Wangetti, QLD 4872
The Lowdown
The Big Crocodile lurks at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures in Wangetti, on the Captain Cook Highway between Cairns and Port Douglas in Far North Queensland. This fearsome fibreglass saurian greets visitors to one of Australia's premier crocodile attractions, where saltwater crocodiles - the world's largest reptiles - are the stars of the show. Hartley's has been educating visitors about these ancient predators since 1934, offering boat cruises through crocodile-inhabited lagoons, feeding shows, and close encounters with these magnificent and terrifying creatures. The Big Croc is a warning and a welcome in equal measure.
Did you know?
"Crocodiles have remained largely unchanged for 200 million years"
History
Hartley's began as a roadside attraction in 1934 when Charlie Hartley started showing crocodiles to tourists travelling between Cairns and Port Douglas. The park has grown into one of Australia's leading wildlife experiences, specializing in saltwater crocodiles - the largest reptiles on Earth. These prehistoric predators have lived in Australia for millions of years and can grow over 6 metres long. The Big Crocodile at the entrance reminds visitors they're entering croc country, where respect for these apex predators is essential for survival.
More Fun Facts
- •Saltwater crocodiles can grow over 6 metres long
- •Hartley's has been open since 1934
- •Crocodiles have remained largely unchanged for 200 million years
- •Salties can swim at speeds up to 18 km/h
- •Far North Queensland has thousands of wild crocodiles
Visiting Tips
- 💡Book a boat cruise to see crocodiles in their lagoon habitat
- 💡Feeding shows happen throughout the day
- 💡Located halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas
- 💡Combine with a visit to the Daintree Rainforest
Opening Hours
Check Hartley's website for current opening hours.
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