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Planning a stay at BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park or exploring Darwin city? Then don’t miss Crocosaurus Cove, a top‑tier reptile attraction in the heart of Darwin, home to some of Australia’s biggest saltwater crocodiles, daily croc‑feeding shows, and the adrenaline‑pumping “Cage of Death” experience.
Whether you’re chasing a bit of Aussie wildlife, curious about crocodiles, or after a trip with serious wow factor, Crocosaurus Cove delivers.
Why Crocosaurus Cove is worth the visit
- Crocosaurus Cove is home to the world’s largest display of Australian reptiles, including saltwater crocs, snakes, pythons, freshwater turtles, and a 200,000‑litre freshwater aquarium filled with native fish, rays and turtles.
- It’s in Darwin’s city centre (58 Mitchell Street, Darwin City), easy to reach from the city or nearby holiday parks.
- Offers multiple experiences for different kinds of travellers, from family‑friendly reptile shows and baby‑crocodile encounters to high-adrenaline croc dives.
- Opening hours are generous, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM), giving you flexibility whether you want a quick stop or a full morning/afternoon visit.
Don’t miss: The “Cage of Death”
If there’s one reason Crocosaurus Cove earns its legendary status, it’s the infamous "Cage of Death" Australia’s only crocodile dive.
Here’s the scoop: you climb into a transparent acrylic cage, which is then lowered into a saltwater pool. There, within a safe enclosure, you come face‑to‑face with massive saltwater crocodiles stretching over five metres long.
- The dive lasts about 15 minutes long enough to feel the power, size and presence of one of the planet’s most fearsome predators.
- For many visitors, this is a bucket‑list moment, the kind of story you’ll tell for years.
- It’s safe, professionally managed, story‑worthy, and utterly unforgettable.
If that’s a bit too wild, there are still plenty of other reptile and croc‑based experiences to enjoy inside the Cove.
More than just croc diving
Even without the dive, Crocosaurus Cove offers plenty for every kind of traveller:
- Reptile House & Aquarium: With 70+ species of reptiles, plus freshwater turtles, fish and rays perfect for kids, casual visitors or anyone fascinated by Australia’s reptile life.
- Daily Croc Feeding Shows: See those huge crocs in action — feeding time is often the most dramatic show in the house, complete with jumping bites and snarling jaws (safely all behind glass).
- Baby Crocs & Interactive Moments: Want a slightly tamer experience? You can hold baby crocs or meet juvenile reptiles, a gentler intro to Territory wildlife, good for families.
- Freshwater Aquarium & Turtle Billabong: A calm contrast to the croc action and a chance to see barramundi, rays, turtles, and other freshwater creatures from a safe, dry vantage point.
All up, the Cove balances thrill with education, adrenaline with calm, and crocodile chaos with quiet reptile wonder.
Plan your visit: Tips from the locals
- Best time: Arrive when they open at 9 AM if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler air.
- Time required: Budget around 2–3 hours to take in the exhibits, possibly catch a feeding show, and maybe even book the Cage of Death or a baby‑croc hold.
- Tickets: Entry starts around AU$35 for general admission. Special experiences like the Cage of Death or crocodile feeding may cost more, depending on package.
- Location: 58 Mitchell Street — easy CBD access, parking nearby, and walkable if you’re staying downtown or near tourist accommodation.
Who is Crocosaurus Cove for?
Everyone! This place suits a wide mix of travellers:
- Adrenaline‑seekers: For those after a thrill or a wild story for the photo album, the Cage of Death is hard to beat.
- Families: With baby‑croc encounters, reptile exhibits, aquariums and safe viewing platforms, it’s a great wildlife day with kids.
- Reptile and wildlife lovers: For anyone curious about Australia’s crocs, snakes, turtles and freshwater creatures.
- Holiday‑park guests: If you’re staying at Howard Springs or exploring Darwin, this is a top‑tier nature stop close to home.
Crocosaurus Cove is a must for your NT itinerary
If you imagine the Top End as wild rivers, crocodile country, tropical heat and natural mystery Crocosaurus Cove gives you all that, packed into a few hours. It’s a controlled slice of wilderness smack in Darwin’s city centre, and a powerful reminder of why the North captures hearts.
Whether you go for the dive, the shows, the reptiles or just the sheer awe you’ll leave with more than a story; you’ll leave impressed, a little bit humbled, and a whole lot of respect for crocs.
Go face the croc. Go feel the thrill. Go explore Crocosaurus Cove.