Cairns is well known for its lush rainforests, gorgeous coral reefs, interesting wildlife and friendly locals, but the iconic estuarine crocodile is one of the area’s most famous residents.
These beautiful creatures are often referred to as ‘salties’ and can be seen in their natural habitats or viewed safely in wildlife parks and sanctuaries. Here’s a quick guide to help you see some of these crocodiles in Cairns.
Crocodiles in the Wild
Estuarine crocs are native to the waterways throughout Cairns. They live in rivers, mangroves and coastal estuaries, making this area one of the best places to observe them in their natural surrounds. Popular locations to see wild crocodiles include the Daintree River and Trinity Inlet.
- Daintree River – Located about two hours north of Cairns, the Daintree River is well-known for its crocodile population. Guided boat tours offer visitors the chance to safely spot these creatures relaxing on the riverbanks or swimming in the water. Experienced guides provide useful information about crocodile behaviour and their role in the ecosystem.
- Trinity Inlet – A few minutes from Cairns’ city centre, Trinity Inlet is home to many estuarine crocodiles. There’s some lovely boat cruises here, giving you the opportunity to explore the waterways and see these reptiles in their natural habitat.
When watching crocodiles in the wild, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines – never approach or feed them and always stay away from the edge of the water, especially in known crocodile habitats.
Wildlife Parks and Sanctuaries
For a closer encounter under safer conditions, Cairns has a few wildlife parks where you can see these amazing reptiles up close and learn more about them.
- Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – Located 40 minutes north of Cairns, this famous wildlife park offers many experiences such as crocodile feeding shows and lagoon boat tours. Hartley’s is also home to freshwater crocodiles and a variety of other Australian native animals.
- Kuranda Koala Gardens – Located nearby in the charming village of Kuranda, this wildlife park is home to a range of native Aussie animals, including crocs. You can observe estuarine crocodiles in a safe environment while learning about their behaviour and ecological significance through engaging presentations.
- Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas – Just over an hour’s drive from Cairns, this sanctuary is home to the CrocArena, where you can watch feeding demonstrations and learn about Crocodile biology and conservation. You can even swim with salties if you’re brave enough!
Crocodile Safety in Cairns
Getting up close and personal with crocodiles can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to always respect their habitat. If you make sure you read warning signs near waterways and avoid swimming or standing near water where crocodiles might be, you’ll be able to enjoy the wonder of Cairns. For some exciting activities, visit our Cairns Tours page.
