Family Wildlife Encounters Between Cairns and Port Douglas

For many families, seeing a koala, a kangaroo or a crocodile up close is a highlight of the whole trip. The stretch of coast between Cairns and Port Douglas has some of the region's best-known wildlife parks, and with the summer school holidays approaching, it is a good time to plan.

Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas

Wildlife Habitat is home to many of the animals visitors most want to see, including koalas, kangaroos, cassowaries, emus and saltwater crocodiles. It is a good place for children to see animals they may not see at home, at a pace that suits younger legs.

HARTLEY's CROCODILE ADVENTURES

SEEING WILDLIFE IN THE WILD

Some animals are best seen in their natural habitat, with someone who knows where to look.

• Daintree River. On our Daintree & Cape Tribulation day, the river cruise is an opportunity to see crocodiles in the wild.
• Kuranda. Kuranda village has several animal attractions. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, a short walk from the Skyrail and railway stations, is a gentle option for younger children. It is open from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm.

If lucky when travelling through the Cassowary Coast or Daintree, you may see a cassowary in the wild.

Our Port Douglas Wildlife Experience

We combine both parks in one private day:

• Pickup from your Cairns accommodation at around 8 am
• A scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway
• Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas
• Lunch at The Tin Shed, overlooking the water
• Flagstaff Hill Lookout above Four Mile Beach
• Hartley's Crocodile Adventures for the afternoon crocodile feeding
• Return to Cairns at around 6 pm

Entry fees and lunch are included, and because it is private, the pace is set by your family. If someone needs a break, we take one.

View the Port Douglas Wildlife Experience

Practical tips for travelling with children

• Ask for child seats when you book. Please tell us the number and ages of children so we can fit the correct seats before we arrive.
• Plan wildlife for the morning. Animals tend to be more active and it is cooler, especially from November onwards.
• Pack hats, sunscreen and water. Even on cloudy days the sun is strong.
• Allow for downtime. A full day of attractions can be a lot for young children. A private day can be shortened if needed.
• Swim safely. Stinger season runs from November to May. Swim at patrolled beaches, between the flags, in stinger enclosures where provided. Crocodile warnings apply around waterways year-round.



If you are travelling with children and want help planning a day around them, get in touch.