Darwin Wildlife Viewing

Written by Viator, August 2010

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Nature & Wildlife, Tip - What to See & Do

If you're looking for a truly unique wildlife experience, Australia's 'Top End' is home to some bizarre, prehistoric and sometimes terrifying critters living within a mystical, tropical landscape. Wildlife fanatics and eco tourists will not be disappointed by Darwin. A first glance of a handsome black flying fox or a comical frill-necked lizard scampering on its back legs is not easily forgotten, not to mention the famously ferocious crocs.

Kakadu National Park is an area of incredible natural beauty and sweeping landscapes and a cruise through it is an ideal introduction to the native flora and yes, those snapping crocodiles. You can drift through Kakadu, absorbing the tropical lushness, or you can take the daredevil option and join the Jumping Crocodiles Cruise from Darwin. Here, you'll sail along the Adelaide River and get up close and personal with saltwater crocodiles as they propel themselves out of the water with muscular strength to snatch their food. Want to get even closer? (What are you, crazy?!) Then jump into the 'Cage of Death' and swim with some of Australia's largest saltwater crocodiles at Darwin's Crocosaurus Cove.

The Jumping Crocodiles Cruise also includes a visit to the Window on the Wetlands Centre where you can see birds of prey scavenge for leftovers, safe in the knowledge you're not on the menu! You'll also get to explore the Fogg Dam Nature Reserve, a wetlands eco system teeming with reptiles and birdlife.

For those who prefer their wildlife at a 'fingers intact' distance and prefer to dodge the Cove's 'Cage of Death,' you can spend your time taking in some fascinating educational talks, you can witness the daily barramundi feeding frenzy and catch a glimpse of the world's largest display of Australian reptiles including the most venomous snakes on the planet.

Latest Replies

Add review or reply

All Darwin Wildlife Viewing Reviews

Reply by Viator, February 2013
Doing what: Cage of Death at Darwin's Crocosaurus Cove

Fantastic, my personal favorite highlight of the trip and we flew over Kakadu!
Definately a Bucket List item, an unforgetable lifetime experience...Up close and personal, got to kiss a CROC..

Report problem

Reply by Viator, January 2013
Doing what: Darwin Jumping Crocodiles Cruise on Adelaide River

Fantastic day out, awesome coach driver very informative. Crocodiles were amazing will definitely do again and recommend to friends to try.

Report problem

Reply by Viator, November 2012
Doing what: Darwin Jumping Crocodiles Cruise on Adelaide River

Cruise was excellent. Saw 10+ crocodiles of varying ages and sizes. The guide was helpful and knowledgable.

Report problem