The closest living relative to the dinosaur, with a bite force thought to rival that of a T.Rex, saltwater crocodiles are the ultimate apex predators. With more than 100,000 of them patrolling the waterways of Australia’s Northern Territory alone – that’s one saltie for every two human residents – it’s the best place on the planet to see these reptilian relics in action.
Valued at more than AU$100 million, the Northern Territory’s crocodile industry isn’t just important to the local economy, but also to croc conservation. Consequently, croc tourism – and even croc farming – has contributed greatly to a significant rebound in their numbers since they became a protected species in the 1970s. There are numerous ways to see a crocodile up close in the Top End, ranging from low-impact wildlife viewing to more manufactured interactions. However, given claims by animal welfare experts that using animals for entertainment can be harmful for them, some options raise ethical questions. To help you make informed decisions about croc-viewing in Australia, we take a closer look at the most popular experiences accessible from Darwin.
Whichever way you decide to go croc-spotting, remember to be croc-wise. Stay well back from the edge of any waterway where crocs may reside, and avoid swimming in any Top End water body unless official signage indicates it is croc-free, even if it seems like there are no crocs around.
Corroboree Billabong Boat Tours
Part of the Mary River Wetlands – home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocs – Corroboree Billabong is one of the best locations in the Top End to observe crocs in their natural habitat. On a boat cruise along the scenic billabong, located 100km east of Darwin, you’ll encounter plenty of salties as well as a range of bird species and other wildlife that inhabit the waterlily-rimmed billabong. Crocs here are not baited, fed, or prodded to perform for tourists, ensuring a relaxed, organic wildlife-spotting experience, complemented by informative commentary provided by knowledgeable guides.
Cahill’s Crossing
Known as Australia’s most dangerous water crossing, this shallow causeway across the East Alligator River in Kakadu National Park sees dozens of crocs congregate to feast on fish migrating upstream when the road is submerged by the incoming tide. Despite its remote location, the spectacle consistently attracts tourists who line the west bank with their cameras.
Although attempting to cross the muddy river at high tide is prohibited, each year, numerous daring drivers try to do so, only to end up washed into the croc-infested waters. In 2017, a man was killed by a crocodile while attempting to cross on foot, while others have been snatched while standing too close to the riverbank. You’ve been warned.
Outback Floatplane Adventures
This adrenaline-packed tour begins with a scenic floatplane ride across Darwin Harbour to the stunningly remote Sweets Lagoon – the former home of Sweetheart, the enormous stuffed saltie on display at Darwin’s Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Otis, a 4.6m saltie, is likely to greet you before you embark on a boat cruise along the pristine lagoon, followed by an airboat tour along narrower waterways teeming with crocs. If you’re fortunate, you may also encounter Otis’ neighbors, who have names like ‘Chug’, ‘Bone Cruncher’, and ‘Nitro’.
Crocodylus Park
The brainchild of renowned crocodile biologist Professor Grahame Webb, Crocodylus Park, located 15km from the center of Darwin, is home to over 1,000 crocs (including salties, freshies, and American alligators), as well as a mini-zoo comprising big cats, monkeys, large birds, and more. Tours, held four times daily, include informative wildlife talks and croc feeding sessions, with a new boat cruise offering an opportunity to see salties in a more ‘natural’ environment.
Jumping Croc Boat Tours
Perhaps only when witnessing a saltie launch its enormous body from the water to seize its prey can you fully appreciate its power. On an hour-long jumping croc cruise down the Adelaide River, about 75 minutes’ drive from Darwin, expect to be startled when locals such as Dominator and his rival Brutus, two of the river’s largest salties, leap out of the murky water to snatch chunks of meat dangled from poles alongside your tour boat.
Jumping croc tours (various operators offer these experiences) are regulated to ensure crocs aren’t fed anything they wouldn’t typically consume in the wild, with snacks given in small portions to prevent crocs from becoming dependent on external food sources. However, it is essential to note that feeding wild animals – including crocodiles – is discouraged by animal welfare experts, as well as by the Northern Territory government itself.
Crocasaurus Cove
Crocasaurus Cove is the closest you can get to swimming with a croc without risking your safety. This crocodile theme park in central Darwin is renowned for its ‘Cage of Death’, a strong clear cylinder allowing two people to be lowered into a pool containing a large saltwater crocodile.
Crocasaurus Cove’s larger inhabitants include a former showbiz croc and several ‘problem crocs’, known for their destructive tendencies towards boat motors or livestock. Critics argue that while these crocs may be euthanized for their behavior, it does not compensate for the stress they experience when coaxed by handlers to perform. Additionally, the handling of baby crocs is also available, which can lead to distress. Other attractions include a reptile display, a freshwater aquarium, and an enclosure of juvenile crocs separated from a swimming pool by a glass wall.
