See the Saltwater Crocodiles of Darwin

The tropical climate of the Northern Territory makes Darwin the perfect home for the resident saltwater crocodiles.

In fact, this part of Australia is home to more crocodiles than anywhere else in the world. If you want to learn more about these magnificent creatures, it’s well worth the visit!

The Saltwater Crocodile

Salties, as they are locally known, are the largest species of reptile in the world and have sat at the very top of the food chain for over 100 million years. They can grow to an impressive seven metres long and can easily weigh more than 1,000 kg. However, the average size of a fully-grown male in the Northern Territory is around five metres long. There are around 200,000 saltwater crocodiles in Australia, with the vast majority of them calling the Top End and Darwin home.

There are plenty of places to see the saltwater crocodiles of Darwin and its surroundings. Below are four of the best ways to do so!

Head to Crocosaurus Cove

Located within the city of Darwin is Crocosaurus Cove. This fascinating place is dedicated to the magnificent saltwater crocodile and is home to the largest display of Australia reptiles in the world.

So, what is there to do at Crocosaurus Cove? Let’s find out!

• Swim with the Crocs

  Yes, you can actually swim with the crocodiles from the safety of a secure glass enclosure tube. Here you will see the crocs swim past you through the clear glass wall dividing you. This activity is sure to give even the bravest visitor a scare.

• See the Baby Crocs
  

  If the bigger crocodiles make you nervous, you can instead visit the tiny baby crocs. This is an opportunity where you can actually hold them in your hands before they grow too big.

• The Reptile House
  

  Discover the other creatures to the tropics in the reptile house! There are over 70 different species roaming about, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. There are demonstration showings three times a day, so make sure you visit to catch one of these professional displays.

Take a cruise along the Yellow River

Visit Crocodylus Park     

Set just outside of Darwin’s city centre, Crocodylus Park is home to more than 10,000 crocodiles. As well as seeing these creatures up close, you can also browse the on-site museum. The museum boasts numerous displays where you can learn all about the behaviour, habitat and lifestyle of these creatures.

Explore Territory Wildlife Park

This wildlife park is located about an hour outside of Darwin. There are plenty of activities to enjoy at this educational and immersive location!

• Billabong

  The Billabong is where a collection of native animals and lush plant life comes together. Here you can see birds, reptiles and mammals all frocking about the waters and edges.

• Aquarium

  This experience lets you see native marine animals both in and out of the water! There is only a clear glass dividing you from the dark water, where you can spot platypus’, fish and even crocodiles.

• Monsoon Forest Walk

  This raised boardwalk winds through the Top End habitat, ducking through the thick greenery and arching over the trickling creeks. Here you can see animals such as turtles, snakes, reptiles and birds frolicking about in their natural habitat.

• Nocturnal House

  Discover the secrets of natural nightlife! This wildlife park is home to some of Australia’s most beloved nocturnal animals. The doors to the Nocturnal House open after sunsets, allowing you to view these creatures as they slowly wake up. Geckos, sugar gliders and rare rock wallabies are just some of the animal’s featured here.

Join a jumping crocodile tour

Set on the picturesque backdrop of the Adelaide River, the jumping crocodile tours give you a chance to get to know these creatures in a unique and memorable way.

You’ll travel along the river on a boat, where you can see the local kings of the river. As you voyage down the river, you will see a range of native animals and plants that call the area home. After finding a croc swarmed spot, the guide will pull out a tasty treat, hanging it out on a long stick high above the air. This is where the jumping comes in! The crocs will leap out of the water to grab their tasty treat, with the majority of their body emerging from the murky waters. It’s safe to say you won’t forget this exhilarating experience anytime soon.

Getting to know the saltwater crocodiles of the Northern Territory is a must-do if you’re in the area. Decide which experience best suits your interests and see the creatures in their natural environment!