The Top End has one of the biggest populations of crocodiles in the world. Both Saltwater and Freshwater Crocodiles inhabit our waterways, with Salties being the bigger and more powerful of the two species. 

The average size of a male Saltwater Croc is a huge 5 metres and they can weigh over 500kg - an absolute force of nature. 

Getting to know our crocs is a must-do if you really want to immerse yourself in the Territory. If you’re visiting Darwin, there are lots of nearby places to get up close and personal with these prehistoric creatures.

Crocosaurus Cove

In the heart of the Darwin CBD you’ll find some of Australia’s largest Saltwater Crocodiles. Crocosaurus Cove on Mitchell Street has a bunch of unique croc experiences for the whole family. 

Cage of Death - Fancy swimming with crocs? The infamous Cage of Death at Croc Cove is not for the faint hearted. You’ll be plunged into a pool with one of Australia’s biggest apex predators for an adrenaline-pumping experience you won’t get anywhere else.

Big Croc Feed Show - Starting with a ‘Bite Force’ demonstration, learn about Salties feeding habits and how they’ve survived for over 200 million years in the wild. Show times are at 11.30am and 2.30pm. 

Fishing with Crocs - This fun family-friendly activity gives you the chance to feed young Freshwater Crocs from your fishing line! Watch how they catch their prey and get an insight into their behaviour in the wild.

Jumping Crocodile Cruise

This famous crocodile tour takes you up one of the most croc-filled scretches of Adelaide River. This easy day trip is just an hour drive from Darwin along the Arnhem Highway.

The 1 hour cruise gives you the chance to see powerful Salties in their natural habitat. Watch the feeding demonstration as the guides entice crocs out of the water so you can get an up close view of these impressive creatures. Learn about croc biology, their behaviour and the diverse floodplain ecosystem they inhabit.

Museum and Art Gallery

Just down the road from Hudson Parap you’ll find the Top End’s most famous reptile - a 20 foot croc named Sweetheart. While Sweetheart might be taxidermied, his story is a legendary part of Northern Territory history. 

In the 1970s, Sweetheart got a name for himself for his tendency to stalk fishermen at a popular Darwin fishing spot. By 1979, Sweetheart ramped up his attacks and it became a major safety concern. Rangers captured Sweetheart, but he tragically died as they tried to relocate him. 

Infamous Sweetheart now rests at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory and has been visited by millions. You can get free entry into the museum to check him out as well as explore the other displays of unique Territory wildlife.

Territory Wildlife Park

Located a 40-minute drive from Darwin's CBD, this is a hidden gem! Featuring a number of wildlife roaming in their natural habitat is a special sight to see. Catch the bus or wander around this park as you explore the different and everchanging environments!

Don't miss out on featured interactions and shows at the flight deck and feed times. You can even experience an up-close encounter with some amazing creatures!

Lay next to a croc as you wander through the aquarium, it doesn't get much better than that!

Don't forget to speak to the friendly experienced team, who love sharing their knowledge of the wildlife and the habitats in their care.

Photo credit: Tourism NT