Whitsunday Crocodile Safari

The basics

While croc-spotting, watch for other native wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and crustaceans. Along with cruising the calm waters of the Prosperine River, the experience includes a tractor-drawn wagon train ride to explore vegetation and wildlife in a freshwater wetland habitat. Your guides provide insights into the flora and fauna, as well as a barbecue lunch and “bush tucker,” including damper (a thick soda bread) and billy tea.

Things to know before you go

• Bring a hat and jacket to protect yourself from the sun and wind.

• Special dietary needs can be accommodated if advised ahead of time.

• Drinking water is provided, and soft drinks can be purchased on-site.

• Tours take place rain or shine (rain ponchos are provided when necessary).

How to get there

Whitsunday Crocodile Safari’s campsite (the starting point for tours) is located on the Prosperine River, around 20 miles (30 kilometers) southwest of Airlie Beach in Queensland’s Whitsunday Region. But you don’t need to worry about getting there: the company provides guests complimentary round-trip bus transportation from Airlie Beach.

When to get there

Bus pickups from Airlie Beach begin early in the morning—the exact time can vary depending on tide conditions. Pickups are from most Airlie Beach accommodations, and you will be advised of the times when you select your pickup location when booking.

Conway Circuit

Starting midway between Airlie Beach and Whitsunday Crocodile Safari, the Conway Circuit (formerly Whitsunday Great Walk) is a 17-mile (27-kilometer) walking, running, and biking route that leads through Conway State Forest to Airlie Beach. Tracks of varying difficulty travel through tropical rainforests and offer views of the Whitsunday Islands. Walkers typically take three days to complete it.

Are there crocodiles in the Whitsundays?

No. Although you may occasionally hear of crocodile sightings in the Whitsundays after a flash flood or natural disaster, crocodiles aren’t generally found on or around the islands. However, Whitsunday Crocodile Safaris leave from Airlie Beach and explore the mainland Whitsunday region, including crocodile-watching along the Proserpine River.

Where can I see crocodiles near Airlie Beach?

Airlie Beach is a half-hour drive from the Proserpine River, known for its high population of saltwater crocodiles. Whitsunday Crocodile Safaris are a fun and safe way to see the crocs in their natural habitat on a scenic river cruise, and tours include pickup and transfers from Airlie Beach.

How many crocodiles are in the Proserpine River?

The Proserpine River is home to the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the Whitsunday region. About 150 salties live here, and you can spot them lounging on the banks or roaming the surrounding wetlands. To safely cruise the river in search of the wild crocs, join a Whitsunday Crocodile Safari.

How far in advance should I book Whitsunday Crocodile Safari tickets?

It’s best to book your Whitsunday Crocodile Safari tickets a week or two in advance to avoid disappointment, as the daily tours regularly sell out. Consider booking earlier for large groups or specific dates—some Saturdays and school holiday dates sell out up to five months in advance.

Is a Whitsunday Crocodile Safari worth it?

Yes. The Whitsunday Crocodile Safari is the only Whitsunday region tour where you can spot wild crocodiles on a river cruise, ride a tractor-drawn wagon train through the wetlands, and taste Aussie bush tucker. The full-day tours include hotel pickup and drop-off and a barbecue lunch.

How long does a Whitsunday Crocodile Safari tour take?

A Whitsunday Crocodile Safari is a full-day experience. The tour picks you up from your hotel around 8:30am for a crocodile-watching cruise along the Proserpine River. You'll then ride a tractor-drawn wagon train through the wetlands. After a barbecue lunch, you'll be dropped at your hotel around 3pm.