Adelaide River

Starting in the lush landscape of Litchfield National Park and weaving through the bushland until it hits Clarence Strait, the Adelaide River is one of the best natural attractions in the region.

Being the home for plenty of species of animal and plant along the way, promising breath-taking views and ancient scenery.

About Adelaide River

The Adelaide River was named after Queen Adelaide, when it was spotted on a boating expedition held by John Lort Stokes in 1839, with the first European man to spot it was a man named Fitzmaurice, being one of the crewmates of the ship.

What to see at the River?

The biggest appeal of this river is the abundance in wildlife, with bird species, marine life, and unique plants all scattered about the region. Bring you binoculars and try to spot all the bird species, including white-bellied sea eagles and whistling kites. If you stay after dusk, you can even see the flying foxes, the local bats that cover the sky like black stars. For plant lovers, there are over 1500 species of native plants dotted about the river, found along the riverbanks and even growing right out from the water. See the creatures that come to the edge of the river to drink, such as kangaroos or even snakes and lizards, that bask in the sun to recharge. Although the river is a murky brown, there is a range of creatures hidden within the water, such as fish, frogs, and of course, the famous Saltwater Crocodiles.

The Saltwater Crocodiles

They are the most threatening creatures of the river, being at the top of the food chain, even dangerous to humans. With a huge concentration within the river, the famous Saltwater Crocodiles are ancient creatures that bring a large majority of the visitors to their waters.

One of the most popular activities along the Adelaide River is crocodile spotting. Letting visitors hop on a small boat that ventures down the river, spotting the crocs and even feeding them on occasion.

The food routine is called “crocodile jumping” and allows viewers to see the entire length of these massive crocodiles. The guide will dangle a treat from a long wooden stick, high up above the surface of the water. Resulting in the croc to leap from the waters, only metres away from guests who will be in awe of these creatures’ size and strength.