👒 Visitor Tips: What to Wear & What to Bring

What to Wear

• Sensible walking shoes: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures spans 28 hectares of natural habitats, so be prepared for plenty of walking on a variety of surfaces. Comfortable, sturdy footwear will ensure you enjoy every step of your journey.
• A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen: As the park is located in the beautiful Wet Tropics, the sun can be strong. Protect yourself with a hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing to stay cool and sun-safe while exploring the grounds.

What to Bring

• Your own water: Please note there is no town water supply at Hartley’s, so bringing a refillable water bottle is highly recommended to keep hydrated throughout your visit.
• Rain gear: On rainy days, an umbrella or lightweight raincoat will help you stay comfortable. The rainforest climate can change quickly, so it’s always best to be prepared.
• Camera or video recording device: Capture unforgettable moments with wildlife and scenery. Extra batteries and memory cards are available for purchase at our gift shop, so you’ll never miss a shot.
• Binoculars for bird watchers: With a diverse range of birdlife inhabiting the sanctuary, keen bird watchers may want to bring binoculars to make the most of the experience.
• Stroller hire: A limited number of strollers are available for families with small children, making it easier to explore the park comfortably.

Preparing ahead ensures you’ll have a safe, comfortable, and memorable day at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, no matter the season or weather conditions.

🐊 About Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Established in 1934, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is one of Cairns’ oldest and most iconic attractions, with a history as rich and fascinating as the wildlife it protects. What began as a simple roadside tea house run by Pop Evans—famous for feeding “Charlie,” the resident crocodile—has grown into a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary and conservation hub.

Hartley’s pioneered Australia’s very first crocodile shows and laid the foundation for modern captive breeding programs. These initiatives not only provided unforgettable experiences for visitors but also played a pivotal role in shaping global awareness of crocodile conservation. The park’s groundbreaking work was showcased in international documentaries, inspiring worldwide interest and directly contributing to the protection of wild crocodiles in 1974.

Nearly a century later, Hartley’s continues to build on its proud legacy. Today, visitors from across the globe flock to witness the legendary Crocodile Attack Show, an iconic demonstration that highlights the power and behaviour of these incredible reptiles in a safe, educational way. Beyond crocodiles, the park has expanded to become a sanctuary for a wide variety of native Australian wildlife, from cassowaries and koalas to kangaroos, reptiles, and free-flying birds.

More than just an attraction, Hartley’s is dedicated to conservation, education, and sustainability. The park works tirelessly to balance tourism with environmental stewardship, ensuring that every visitor leaves not only entertained but also inspired to respect and protect Australia’s natural heritage.

With nearly 90 years of history, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures remains a must-visit destination in Tropical North Queensland—where culture, history, and unforgettable wildlife encounters come together in one extraordinary experience.