Hartleys Crocs and Tandem Paragliding – Full Day Adventure

If you’re planning a day in Port Douglas that’s packed with wildlife, excitement, and breathtaking views, the Hartleys Crocs and Tandem Paragliding tour might catch your eye. This combo experience offers a unique mix of close-up wildlife encounters at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and an adrenaline-pumping flight over the coast with High Adventure Paragliding. It’s a day designed for those who want to see wildlife up close and then soar above the scenery, soaking in the beauty of Australia’s tropical coastline.

What immediately draws us in are the opportunity to enjoy educational wildlife shows and explore diverse trails at Hartley’s, as well as the thrill of flying tandem with a professional pilot just a short drive away. We also appreciate that return transfers are included, making the logistics straightforward. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who love a blend of wildlife, adventure, and scenic views without having to organize multiple bookings. It’s perfect for those who want a full, varied day out but don’t mind a packed schedule. Families, couples, or solo explorers who want a taste of both nature and action will find it appealing.

Key Points

• Combination of Wildlife and Adventure: You get the best of both worlds—animal encounters and adrenaline-filled flying.
• Convenience: All transfers are included, simplifying your day.
• Flexible Exploration: Hartley’s allows for self-guided discovery, so you can explore at your own pace.
• Scenic Flights: The tandem paragliding offers panoramic views of beaches, rainforest, and the Great Barrier Reef.
• Cost-Value Balance: At around $272, you’re paying for a full day’s worth of memorable experiences, though extra expenses like videos aren’t included.
• Limited Group Sizes: With a max of 4 travelers, the tour maintains a personalized vibe.

Exploring Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures

Your day kicks off early, with a pickup from Cairns or Palm Cove—an easy start that helps maximize your time. Once at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, you’ll find a lot to keep you busy. The general admission provides access to all the included activities, which are well thought out for wildlife lovers.

Here, you’ll witness thrilling crocodile feeding shows—a highlight that many travelers rave about. The real draw is seeing these ancient predators in action, which can be both fascinating and slightly intimidating. Hartley’s also offers discovery trails and boat cruises along Hartley’s Lagoon—perfect for spotting native wildlife in a naturalistic setting.

The wildlife presentations often include koalas, snakes, and other native animals, making this an educational experience. One reviewer notes, “The shows are very informative, and the guides are knowledgeable and friendly,” which adds to the overall value. The ability to explore at your own pace means you can linger at exhibits or move quicker if you prefer.

While the experience is generally praised, some visitors mention that crowds can get a bit busy during peak times, so arriving early might help you enjoy the site more comfortably. The overall experience offers a balanced look at local wildlife with entertaining shows and scenic boat rides.

The Paragliding Adventure

Around mid-afternoon, after your wildlife exploration, you’ll be transferred to Wangetti Beach for the high-flying part of your day. Tandem paragliding with High Adventure Paragliding is a short, scenic drive away—a 2-minute transfer, in fact, which is quite convenient.

This is where the tour really stands out. Taking off from a beach, you’ll experience that incredible feeling of flight. The views are what make this experience special: beaches stretching into the horizon, lush rainforest-clad mountains, and even sights of the Great Barrier Reef in the distance. The sensation of soaring through the air is often described as both calming and exhilarating.

For those seeking an extra element of thrill, aerobatics are available as an option, adding some loops and spins for adrenaline junkies. While the standard flight offers plenty of stunning vistas, the possibility of more daring moves is a bonus for adventurous travelers.

The tandem pilots are professionals, which means safety and comfort are prioritized. Expect your flight to last a good while, giving you ample time to soak in the views and take photos. We loved the way this segment contrasts with the wildlife experience—calm and breathtaking, yet equally memorable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of around $272 reflects a full day of activities—transport, entry, wildlife shows, and the tandem flight. We think that’s a fair value considering the variety and quality of experiences packed into one day.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly. While Hartley’s has some food options, many travelers prefer to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward. Also, if you’re interested in capturing the flight experience on video, that will cost an additional A$50 per person for the footage.

The tour’s small group size (max 4 travelers) is a big plus for those who prefer a more personalized experience. It also means you’re likely to get more attention from guides and pilots, making the day more comfortable and enjoyable.

Transport and Timing

The pickups start at 8:00 am, which is fairly early but typical for full-day tours. The schedule is well-paced; you’ll have sufficient time at Hartley’s to explore without feeling rushed, and the short transfer to Wangetti Beach keeps the day moving smoothly.

Return transfers are included, so once your flight ends, you’re driven back to Cairns or Palm Cove. This ease of logistics is one of the things travelers most appreciate, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the area.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for adventurous travelers eager to combine wildlife and aerial views. Families with older children or teens might enjoy the paragliding, but it’s not ideal for very young kids due to the nature of the flight. It appeals most to those seeking an active, varied day with plenty of photo opportunities—nature lovers, thrill-seekers, or curious explorers.

People who value organized logistics and small groups will find this tour particularly convenient. If you’re after a full day of fun without the hassle of planning each activity, this is a great pick.

Final Thoughts

The Hartleys Crocs and Tandem Paragliding tour hits a sweet spot for many looking to experience Port Douglas’s highlights without piecing everything together themselves. The wildlife side offers genuine insights and memorable moments with crocodiles, koalas, and native animals, while the paragliding provides an unmatched perspective of the coastline and rainforest.

It’s not the cheapest option out there, but considering the inclusion of two distinct experiences and the ease of transportation, it offers good value. Just remember to bring some snacks and be prepared for a busy yet rewarding day.

This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of education, adventure, and scenery—especially if you’re comfortable with heights and enjoy being active outdoors.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides return transfers from Cairns City or Palm Cove, making it easy to enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.

How long does each part of the tour last?
You spend the morning at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures with plenty of time for exploration, and then after a short transfer, the paragliding flight takes a significant portion of the afternoon.

Can I participate if I’m afraid of heights?
While tandem paragliding is generally safe, if heights make you uncomfortable, this might not be the best experience. The flight offers stunning views but requires a willingness to fly.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour description doesn’t specify age limits, but the experience is best suited to those who are able to handle a tandem flight. Very young children may not be suitable.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan ahead if you want to have a snack or a meal during your day.

Can I purchase a video of my flight?
Yes, the video costs A$50 per person if you want to relive the experience and share it with friends.

What’s the best time of day for the paragliding?
Most flights are scheduled in the afternoon, starting after your wildlife exploration, with weather conditions being a key factor for safe flying.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable for flying, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, or you’ll be offered a full refund, depending on circumstances.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, exciting day in Port Douglas. It balances the thrill of flight with the charm of wildlife encounters, making it a great choice if you’re looking for variety and adventure in one package.