Crocodiles are one of the ‘must see’ creatures when visiting the NT. Where is the best place to see crocodiles in Australia? The Northern Territory is the place. We've got around 100,000 crocs at last count! What about staying safe when viewing crocs? We've got all the answers.
The Territory is home to Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles (also known as estuarine crocodiles or Crocodylus porosus) so there’s plenty of chances to see them across the Top End. This Ultimate Guide to Crocodiles in the NT gives you everything you need to know about crocodiles in the Northern Territory.
The first question to ask yourself is, do you want to see crocodiles in the wild? Or do you want to visit a wildlife and nature park to see crocodiles in a controlled environment? Either way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal in safety. Saltwater crocodiles are dangerous creatures so it’s important to always to stay safe and Be Crocwise around waterways in the NT.
Why is the NT the best place to see wild crocodiles?
If you’ve ever wanted to see saltwater crocodiles in the wild, the NT is the best place to do it. The NT is home to the world’s largest wild crocodile population, with around 100,000 of these Apex predators at last count (2017). You won’t have to go too far in Darwin and the Top End to see crocs.
Crocodiles form a vital part of the food chain, maintaining the natural balance of wetland ecosystems. Since 1971, crocodiles have been a protected species under an active Crocodile Management Program.
Fun crocodile facts
- Saltwater crocodiles are the worlds’ largest living reptile species and grow to 6m (that’s about twice as long as a Mini Cooper)
- Crocodiles can slow their heart rate to two beats to minute, allowing them to stay underwater for up to an hour
- A transparent eyelid allows perfect vision even when a crocodile is completely submerged underwater
- The solid muscle tail of a crocodile is their secret weapon - they can move faster than a human in short bursts
- Crocodiles have exceptional sense of smell, hearing and sight - they can sense, see and hear prey even in low light or murky muddy water
- The jaws of a crocodile generate enormous power when snapped shut - they can swiftly crush and disarm prey
- Nerve endings on the jaw and underbelly allow crocodiles to detect movements of prey in the water
- Breeding season is during the warmer months between October and May
- Prominent scales on the tail act like a solar panel that transports heat into a crocodile’s body – this is why you’ll often see them basking in the sun
What’s the best way to start your NT croc adventure?
Kick off your crocodile-seeking adventure in Darwin at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). Not only is MAGNT a great place to get an overview of the NT’s history and cultural treasures, you’ll learn about one its most famous residents. Going by the name of Sweetheart, this massive 5.1m croc was named after Sweets Lagoon on the Finniss River, where he was the dominant male. See Sweetheart on display and you’ll appreciate the sheer size and dominance of these powerful predators.
Where to see crocodiles in Darwin region
It's safe to assume that any natural waterway, creek, river or wetlands around Darwin is croc habitat. The Mary River wetlands are a great area to see wildlife and birdlife and there are a number of remote lodges where there's a high chance of seeing crocodiles in the wild.
- Crocosaurus Cove - swim in the Cage of Death if you dare!
- Crocodylus Park
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT)
- Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise
- Adelaide River Queen Original Jumping Crocodile Cruise
- Croc Spot Tours - Jumping Crocodile Encounters
- Mary River Wetlands Cruise
- Territory Wildlife Park
- Tiwi Island Retreat - look for the resident croc which hangs out near the lodge
- Finniss River Lodge - take an airboat cruise to spot crocs on the floodplains
- Top End Safari Camp - crocodile encounters on an airboat ride or billabong cruise
Where to see crocodiles in Kakadu
There are an estimated 10,000 saltwater crocodiles in Kakadu National Park, which means you’ll have a very good chance of seeing crocodiles in their natural habitat.
- Yellow Waters Cruise
- Guluyambi Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River
- Cahills Crossing croc spotting viewpoint
Where to see crocodiles in Katherine
In Katherine, take a river cruise on the Katherine River through Nitmiluk National Park for your best chance of seeing wild crocodiles. Explore Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge on a guided cruise, by canoe, on foot or on a scenic heli flight. The Katherine River is home to both freshwater and saltwater crocs, so always stay alert and Be Crocwise.
Where to see crocodiles in East Arnhem Land
East Arnhem Land is a remote part of the NT accessible by air from Darwin or via the 4WD-only Arnhem Way from Katherine. All coastal waters in the NT are crocodile habitats and the Gove Peninsula's white sand beaches and aquamarine seas are no exception.
At Aboriginal-owned Bawaka Homelands you'll be staying with Yolngu people who have a deep connection with the coastal lands where crocodiles reside.
Where to see crocodiles in Alice Springs
The good news for swimmers is that crocodiles do not inhabit waterways of the Red Centre. You don’t need to worry about salties in the waterholes – it’s safe to swim around Alice Springs.
But you can still see a croc called Terry who calls Alice Springs Reptile Centre home. Along with housing the only saltwater crocodile in Alice Springs, the centre houses one of the largest private collections of reptiles in the NT, including goannas, thorny devils, lizards and snakes.
Pubs & crocs - only in the NT can you enjoy a beer with a croc
NT pubs are legendary for many reasons. Whether it's the characters propping up the bar and the yarns they spin, their Outback locations or their quirky style of decor.But only in the Territory can you find hotels, pubs and holiday parks with a resident crocs.
- Crocodile Hotel, Jabiru - check into Kakadu's crocodile hotel and sleep in a croc's belly (kind of...)
- Berry Springs Tavern - meet resident 5m saltwater crocodile named Soft croc
- Sand Palms Roadhouse - meet resident saltwater crocodile named 2dogs
- Bark Hut Inn - meet resident saltwater croc named Harry
- Tumbling Waters Holiday Park - feed the freshwater crocs in the lagoon
Where can you see jumping crocodiles?
Can crocodiles really jump? Well, yes they can. Crocodiles have extremely powerful tails and muscular bodies. They use this strength to provide the necessary thrust to propel themselves vertically out of the water. This instant power surge allows them to catch prey unawares.
More importantly, it makes for exciting thrills when you’re on a boat cruise to see jumping crocodiles. Nothing beats the raw thrill of seeing these prehistoric creatures leaping out of the water on a jumping croc cruise (see above: Where to see crocs in Darwin region). It's an absolute must-see!
Are you game to swim in the Cage of Death?
There is no other place in Australia (probably the world, actually) where you can slip into the same water as a mammoth saltwater. Oh, don’t worry, the Cage of Death is completely safe despite its name. You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as you come face-to-face with these modern-day dinosaurs, safely enclosed in a purpose-built acrylic cage.
Even if you’re not game to dive into the Cage of Death, there’s plenty of other croc adventures at Crocosaurus Cove. You’ll see crocodiles from young hatchlings through to fearsome mature crocs happily living out their retirement in downtown Darwin.
Can you feed or hold a crocodile in the NT?
You bet! Did you know the NT is one of the few places in the world where owning a crocodile as a pet is legal? But you don’t need to make that sort of commitment to get your hands on a croc. Your NT holiday is not complete until you’ve handled or fed a croc and captured bragging rights photos to take home. Here’s where you can feed or hold a croc in the NT:
- Crocosaurus Cove
- Crocodylous Park
Where’s the best place to photograph crocodiles?
Well, that depends.What sort of crocodile photo do you want to take home to show your friends?
If it’s a kitschy photo of a BIG boxing croc you’re after (and let’s be honest, no holiday photo collection is complete without one!), head south from Darwin to Humpty Doo. Here you’ll find a 10m tall boxing crocodile taking pride of place. Near Adelaide River's Jumping Crocs Cruise you'll find a BIG jumping croc for another photo opportunity at two of the NT's reptilian contributions toAustralia’s famed BIG things. Then there's the famous Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel at Jabiru in Kakadu National Park.
Other places to snap photos of art-inspired crocs include a bronze sculpture (artist Neil Ellis) at marina’s edge in Cullen Bay, or a 9m-long steel artwork (artist Techy Masero) complete with a barramundi tagged in the Million Dollar Fish competition, at George Brown Botanic Gardens.
For photo opportunities of crocodiles in the wild, some of the best (and safest) places are the viewpoint at Cahills Crossing and on a billabong cruise in Kakadu National Park.
What makes Nitmiluk and Kakadu special for croc sightings?
The impressive Nitmiluk National Park and World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park provided backdrops for the films Rogue and Crocodile Dundee, both of which had croc stars. Croc Dundee really put the NT on the map as a showcase for viewing saltwater crocodiles. But the NT has actually starred in many films and streaming series.Territory (Netflix) was filmed in Kakadu locations such as Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge and East Alligator River.
Nitmiluk National Park along with Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) is a spectacular region of 13 gorges that line the Katherine River. Freshwater and saltwater crocs have been sighted in the lower reaches of the Katherine River.
For swimmers and kayakers, there are are a number of safe swimming holes within the upper gorge system that are inaccessible to crocodiles. You can experience Nitmiluk on a guided cruise or hire a canoe and paddle at your own pace.
How to be safe around crocodiles
From nature and wildlife parks, along with river cruises or tranquil billabongs, the NT can get you up close in safety with fierce reptilian predators. Territory tour operators and park rangers are highly trained in crocodile management. The best way to see crocodiles is to join a guided wildlife and nature tour or visit a wildlife park.
Don’t be fooled by the name – saltwater crocodiles may be found over 200km from the coast, inhabiting fresh or salt water. This is particularly so during heavy rain periods when rivers rise creating easy passage for crocodiles. Crocodiles can travel up to a kilometre on land, remain concealed for long periods inland, stay submerged without moving during a hunt, and run incredibly fast. Just because you can’t see them, doesn’t mean they’re not there.
Don’t attempt to feed any wild crocodiles and never swim in any waterway or camp, fish, or walk in any area where crocodile hazard signs are posted. Be safe and respect crocodiles and their environment. Check the Be Crocwise website for latest information.
What’s the difference between saltwater and freshwater crocodiles?
There are two distinct species of croc native to the NT - saltwater (salties) and freshwater (freshies) crocodiles. Freshies are generally smaller, growing up to 3m, and are less aggressive than their saltwater cousins. Freshies can be identified by their long snouts with smaller teeth and narrow heads. They mostly eat birds and fish.
Salties on the other hand are more common and can grow up to 6m long and are extremely dangerous. Salties inhabit waterways, rivers, floodplains and coastal waters across the Top End. They mostly eat fish but will actually eat anything if the opportunity presents, including buffalos, cows, wild boar and turtles. You’ll recognise them by their chunky snouts with fearsome protruding teeth. Salties are cunning ambush predators and often cannot be seen as they lurk just below the surface.
Both freshies and salties can be found in freshwater and saltwater regions. Obey the signs around waterways, don’t take risks when camping, fishing, swimming or sight-seeing and always Be Crocwise.
What role do crocodiles play in Aboriginal culture?
Crocodiles play an important role in Aboriginal culture. It’s believed that crocodiles represent the spirit of important people and signify strength and skill.
The Crocodile Dreaming story from the Daly River region is one of power and jealousy. A legendary fisherman was believed to have been killed by jealous men when their wives became too admiring of his prowess. The fisherman was rolled in a net and left to hang over the waterway. The net marks in his skin became the scale pattern of the crocodile, and the fisherman now prowls the shoreline awaiting his revenge. This is just one of many Dreamtime stories which link Aboriginal culture with crocodiles.
What’s the history of crocodiles in the NT?
Crocodiles have been around since the dinosaur era and are considered to be the largest reptile species on the planet. But it’s not been easy for these Apex predators to thrive. From around the time of WWII until the early 1970s crocodiles were hunted for their leather hides until near extinction. Laws were introduced in 1971 to protect saltwater crocodiles (freshies have been protected since 1963).
Since then, unregulated hunting ceased, and a world-renowned conservation effort has ensured that more than half of the Australian crocodile population is now found in the NT.
With a sustainable and protected population, crocodile conservation is a priority across the NT, and crocodile numbers are thriving.
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