Not since WWII has Hartley’s been forced to close for such an extended period. The recent easing of government restrictions has thankfully allowed Hartley’s to reopen to the public in mid-June 2020, conditional on the business operating under a COVID Safe Plan.
During Stage III of the Queensland government’s COVID-19 response, there will be limitations on visitor capacity at wildlife shows, reduced passenger numbers on boat cruises and limited seating in Lilies Restaurant.
Interactive behind the scenes tour Big Croc Feed, Reptastic 5 and Zootastic 5 are available but limited numbers.
Lilies Restaurant will be operating on a limited menu during the COVID recovery period. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic lunch and can dine in the park. No BYO alcohol, please. Take away food is obtainable.
During Stage III of the Queensland’s government easing of restrictions on wildlife parks. Subject to change on the day.
9.00 am Crocodile Farm Tour
10.00 am Snake Show
11.00 am Crocodile Show
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1.00 pm Crocodile Farm Tour
2.00 pm Snake Show
3.00 pm Crocodile Attack Show
During busy periods, additional wildlife presentations will be scheduled in. Check blackboard at Admissions on arrival.
In between shows or instead of a show, you are welcome to explore the 2500 metres of boardwalks and pathways winding through Melaleuca Wetlands, Eucalypt Woodland and Riverine rainforest, enjoying a wide variety of native and exotic animals.
All wildlife exhibits open to public viewing including the Komodo Dragon, Alligators, Cassowaries, Wombats, Koalas, Emus, Lizards, Quolls, Kangaroos and Wallabies. Capacity limits apply to the Gallery of Living Art – Reptile Display, Tropical Bird Aviary and Predatory Bird Aviary to ensure social distancing.
WHAT ELSE HAS CHANGED UNDER COVID -19
To satisfy social distancing requirements, the seating capacity of each wildlife amphitheatre has been redefined to meet the conditions of our COVD Safe Plan. We appreciate your understanding, once an amphitheatre has reached capacity, we simply may not be able to accommodate everyone.
Subject to the mix of singles, couples and families, the operational capacity of our boats is limited to 10-15 passengers, reducing our daily operational capacity by more than 60%. We cannot guarantee that every visitor will receive a boat ride.
The duration of the boat cruise has been shortened to 20 minutes to allow cleaning before the next cruise.
HARTLEY’S COVID SAFE PLAN – Conditions of Entry
The owners reserve the right to vary the opening hours, amend or cancel wildlife presentations, animal encounters and boat cruises, alter visitor capacity and restrict the availability of retail products, including food and beverage without prior notice during Stage 3 of the Queensland’s government’s COVID-19 restrictions on trade and operations.
The owners and our Hartley’s team sincerely appreciate your support and patronage during these challenging times. The rules and restrictions are beyond our control and we are doing our very utmost to provide you with an enjoyable wildlife experience.
More than 2500 metres of timber board walks and pathways take you on a journey through eucalypt woodlands, notophyll rainforest and wetlands, discovering an authentic wildlife experience.
With over 3,000 reviews and a rating of 4.5 stars, there is no question we are on the right track.
Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is one of the longest continually operating tourist attractions in Australia.
The business began in 1934 as a roadhouse for weary motorists. Legend has it the original owner Pop Evans entertained motorists by feeding Charlie the crocodile while scones cooked in the woodstove.
Pop was the first person in Australia to perform crocodile shows for the public.
Eight decades later, Hartley’s world-famous Crocodile Attack Show is as popular as ever.
In 2002 the attraction moved to a new site, redefining the wildlife park experience by offering soft adventure and quality learning activities in a truly natural environment.
Nestled in the picturesque Wangetti Valley halfway between Cairns and Port Douglas, our iconic attraction is surrounded by World Heritage-listed National Park.
Our daily presentations strike a perfect balance between entertainment and education.
During their visit, guests can participate in a wide range of activities then relax on a cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon to explore the natural habitat of the legendary Saltwater Crocodile.
In between the many options on offer, visitors can enjoy superb meals at Lilies Bistro overlooking Hartley’s Lagoon. This venue is ideal for breakfast, lunch or a quiet drink in the afternoon. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and changes are applicable. Change menu also in place.
The attraction has recently undergone a major upgrade with new infrastructure and wildlife displays, some featuring exotic animals.
Hartley’s is accredited by Ecotourism Australia and the Zoological Association of Australasia. In 2017, Hartley’s won Silver at the Queensland Tourism Awards, adding to the many other awards for architecture, sustainability and tourism.