Best Crocodile Safaris in Australia: Top Places to See Saltwater Crocodiles Without Getting Eaten

Australia’s prehistoric predators, the saltwater crocodiles, are one of the top attractions for those seeking the best crocodile safaris in Australia. These formidable reptiles have roamed the waterways for millions of years, making them a must-see for any wildlife enthusiast. With their bone-crushing jaws and stealthy nature, they have earned a fearsome reputation—and for good reason. Observing them safely in their natural habitat is both exhilarating and unforgettable.

Get Up Close (But Not Too Close!) to Australia’s Most Fearsome Predators with the Best Crocodile Safaris in Australia

These apex predators, often called ‘salties,’ can grow up to six metres long and have jaws strong enough to crush bone. But while they command respect, they also spark fascination. It’s an amazing sight when they jump or attack just metres from you while you are safely on a crocodile safari. Here’s where you can find crocodile safaris and Australia’s wildlife tours that will get you up close and personal, but not too close, to these fearsome beasts.

Best crocodile safaris in Australia -Don’t try this at home! I’m sitting on a concrete crocodile at Australia Zoo.

Crocodile Express Daintree River Cruises. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

Yellow Water Billabong, Kakadu National Park – Prime Saltwater Crocodile Territory

Kakadu National Park is home to one of the highest concentrations of saltwater crocodiles in the world. A cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong offers a more serene encounter, where crocs glide stealthily through the wetlands, barely causing a ripple. Alongside the crocs, you’ll spot an array of birdlife, from jabirus to sea eagles. It’s nature’s version of a suspense thriller—who knows what’s lurking just below the surface?

I’ve seen these crocodiles jump and it’s impressive how high they get. Remember to always keep your arms inside the boat!

Daintree River, Queensland – A Must-Do Crocodile Safari

The lush Daintree Rainforest isn’t just about ancient ferns and cassowaries—it’s also prime croc country. A guided river cruise allows you to see saltwater crocodiles basking on muddy banks or lurking beneath the surface. The guides share fascinating insights into croc behaviour and the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Just remember, the only safe way to see these dinosaurs up close is from a boat, not by testing the waters yourself.

I’ve been on several of these cruises, and the guides share amazing insights into the habit.  If you want to see crocodiles on the banks, go in winter when they are sunning themselves for warmth.

Best crocodile safaris in Australia – Daintree Boatman Wildlife Cruises

Boat cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon. Image Tourism and Events Queensland

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Queensland – A Wildlife Tour Favorite

For those who prefer a guaranteed sighting without venturing into the wild, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures near Cairns is a must-do Australian wildlife tour. This eco-park features a croc-infested lagoon where boat tours bring you close to these prehistoric beasts. There’s also a chance to witness live feedings, where crocs demonstrate their famous ‘death roll’—which, as its name suggests, is not something you want to experience firsthand.

I enjoyed their lagoon cruise, which had some heart-stopping crocodile moments, and snacked on a crocodile burger at the cafe. It was delicious!  Walking around the crocodile pens, I had another experience when a very ambitious crocodile tried to get my attention.  I was safe on the elevated walkway but there’s no doubt it saw me as dinner!

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures has launched an accessible Croc Centre using multi-media technology to share the history of Hartley’s Creek and crocodiles dating back to prehistoric times.

Wyndham, Western Australia – A Hidden Crocodile Watching Gem

 If you’re heading to the Kimberley, the town of Wyndham boasts the Five Rivers Lookout, where you can scan the tidal flats below for crocodiles. For a closer look, visit the Crocodile Park, home to some of the largest crocs in captivity. These guys aren’t just big—they’re the stuff of nightmares. But from a safe distance, they make for an incredible sight.

Koorana Crocodile Farm, Queensland – A Unique Wildlife Encounter

Located near Rockhampton, Koorana Crocodile Farm is a working crocodile farm where you can see massive salties up close and learn about sustainable croc farming. The farm, which opened in 1981, is home to over 3,000 crocodiles and plays a crucial role in conservation and education. Visitors can join guided tours where they’ll witness feeding demonstrations and learn about the life cycle of crocodiles. There’s also an opportunity to hold a baby crocodile for a unique hands-on experience—because nothing says ‘holiday souvenir’ like a photo with a baby croc.

From February to May, baby crocodiles are hatching at Koorana Crocodile Farm. Check their Hatchlings page where you’ll find all the expected dates and information about this unforgettable experience. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the farm’s on-site restaurant serves crocodile dishes. Yes, you read that right—here, it’s eat or be eaten.

RELATED:  Here’s my Kooorana crocodile farm tour.

Australia Zoo, Queensland – The Best Crocodile Conservation Experience

Founded by the late Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo offers one of the safest and most educational ways to see crocodiles up close, making it a top destination for crocodile conservation in Australia. The daily Crocoseum show is an adrenaline-packed demonstration of how salties hunt and strike. It’s a great spot for families wanting to learn about conservation while enjoying thrilling encounters (and also a chance to see handlers keep all their limbs intact).

Beyond the Crocoseum, Australia Zoo is home to a dedicated Crocodile Environmental Park, where visitors can gain deeper insights into croc behaviour and conservation efforts. The zoo actively participates in crocodile research and rescue programs, ensuring that injured and orphaned crocodiles receive the care they need before being released back into the wild.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Australia Zoo offers the Croc Encounter, where visitors can get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at how crocodiles are trained and cared for. There are also interactive opportunities, including the chance to feed juvenile crocodiles under the guidance of experienced handlers.

Best crocodile safaris in Australia – Wildlife Habitat. Image: Tourism & Events Queensland

Wildlife Habitat, Queensland – A Safe & Thrilling Crocodile Safari

Located in Port Douglas, Wildlife Habitat offers an up-close encounter with crocodiles in a safe environment. The CrocArena experience allows visitors to walk over a swim-through enclosure where saltwater crocodiles lurk beneath. For the truly daring, there’s even an opportunity to swim just inches away from these powerful predators—inside a secure acrylic enclosure, of course (because actually swimming with them would be, well, terminal).

RELATED: This road trip takes you from Cairns to Port Douglas 

Best crocodile safaris in Australia – Wildlife Habitat. Image: Tourism & Events Queensland

Croc-Wise Tips for Safe Saltwater Crocodile Encounters

Whether you choose the wild waterways of the Northern Territory or the safety of a wildlife park, the best crocodile safaris in Australia offer an experience like no other and there are countless opportunities to see crocodiles without becoming lunch. So pack your camera, follow the safety guidelines, and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most formidable (and toothy) predators.

• Always heed warning signs—they’re there for a reason.
• Stay out of the water in croc country, no exceptions.
• Never dangle limbs over the side of boats (unless you fancy being part of a croc’s lunch menu).
• Stick to designated viewing areas and follow local safety advice.
• Don’t get too close for a better photo—crocs can move much faster than you think!

Have you been on a crocodile safari in Australia? Share your experience in the comments below!

While seeing crocodiles in the wild is an unforgettable experience, it’s essential to be ‘Croc-Wise.’ Always heed warning signs, stay out of the water in croc country, and never dangle limbs over the side of boats. And whatever you do, don’t try to take a closer look—these creatures are faster than they appear! Have you been on a crocodile safari in Australia? Share your experience in the comments below!