Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
The Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, or as locals call it, “The Croc”, is part bush retreat, part cultural hub, and 100% Top End quirk.Right in the beating heart of Kakadu National Park, you’ll find one of Australia’s most iconic hotels. Not iconic in that fancy, polished city way — iconic because it’s shaped like a blooming crocodile.
It’s the kind of place you tell your mates about back home: “Yeah, we slept in a crocodile — no, not with one.”
If you’re after a central lodging option with character, comfort, and a deep respect for the indigenous culture of Kakadu, this is it.
A Hotel Shaped Like a Croc (Here’s Why)
- Location: Jabiru, Kakadu National Park, NT
- Fun Fact: It’s literally shaped like a crocodile (tail, legs, snout, the lot)
- Opened: 1988, for Australia’s Bicentenary
- Operated by: Accor’s Mercure brand
This isn’t just a novelty stop. The Croc Hotel was built to celebrate Kakadu’s connection to Gagudju culture, where the crocodile (Ginga) is a totem and guardian of Country.
Dive into the heart of the Northern Territory with a Darwin crocodile tour. Witness the incredible display of nature as these powerful predators launch themselves out of the water.
The Croc-Themed Charm
From the moment you roll up, you’ll spot the distinctive crocodile-inspired architecture — yes, the hotel looks a bit like a croc itself, which adds a fair bit of character. Inside, the decor leans heavily on Indigenous artworks and motifs inspired by Kakadu’s rich Aboriginal heritage. It’s a nod to the local Jawoyn people, traditional custodians of the land, whom you’ll come to appreciate on your adventures.
Comfortable Rooms with a Local Twist
Rooms & Accommodations:
- Classic Queen Rooms with comfortable queen beds
- Superior Rooms with views over the
- landscaped central courtyard
- Wheelchair accessible rooms for disabled guests
- Family-friendly options with extra bedding
- All rooms are smoke-free and have Internet access, air-conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms
Onsite Facilities:
- Outdoor swimming pool (essential after a steamy Kakadu day)
- Escarpment Restaurant and Bar – serving up Kakadu bush tucker & gourmet meals
- Conference facilities and banquet facilities for events
- Daily housekeeping and laundry services
- Accessible parking and bicycle parking for road-trippers
- Convenience facilities like concierge service, tour bookings, and business facilities
- A gallery showcasing Aboriginal artworks that connect culture to crocodile
For those wondering about brekkie, you’ve got American breakfast, continental breakfast, and a full buffet breakfast with plenty of beverage options. The average price is fair for a remote location, and yes, breakfast costs extra unless you snag a package.
Dining & Bush Tucker
The Escarpment Restaurant and Bar is your go-to for delicious cuisine with a local twist. Think Australian cuisine with a Kakadu flair:
- Barramundi fillets done right
- Buffalo meat dishes for the adventurous
- Kakadu bush tucker specials
- An array of international dishes if you’re feeling less wild
It’s a far cry from your average servo pie. Plus, the setting under the croc’s belly is unbeatable.
For casual bites, the Manjmukmuk Restaurant (when open) offers lighter meals and café vibes.
How to Get There
Why This Place is More Than a Novelty
Sure, the crocodile design grabs attention, but there’s a deeper meaning here:
- The hotel honours the ancient culture of the Bininj people
- It’s a symbol of Ginga, the protector of waterways and the Country
- By staying, you support local employment and cultural initiatives
The hotel regularly showcases Aboriginal artists, with rotating exhibits that link artworks to crocodile Dreaming stories. It’s this blend of quirky and culturally respectful that makes it stand out.
Essential Info & Need-to-Know Details
Before you book your idyllic retreat, here’s your cheat sheet:
- Check-in: From 2 pm | Check-out: By 10 am
- Child policy: Child-friendly, with bedding for kids up to 12 included. Always check the ages of children for specific room allocations.
- Average room price: Varies by season. Expect $220–$300 per night in the Dry. Cheaper in the Wet.
- Correct prices: Always check directly or via Accor for specials.
- Additional services: Tour assistance, laundry, free parking.
- Convenient room facilities: Fridge, tea/coffee, flat screen TV, smoke alarms.
For those needing extra help, the hotel is well set-up for wheelchair accessible stays, with ramps, lift access, and adapted bathrooms.
Best Time to Stay & What to Expect
Dry Season (May to October):
- Sunny, dry, and perfect for day hikes to natural attractions like Ubirr and Nourlangie
- All roads are accessible, and more tours are running
Wet Season (November to April):
- Hot, humid, but lush with birdlife and croc activity
- Road closures are common, but fewer tourists = better deals
You’ll want that outdoor pool for relief — trust me. It’s a perfect oasis after trekking through stone country.
FAQ
Is the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel kid-friendly?
What dining options are available at the hotel?
Is it accessible for disabled guests?
Can you book Kakadu tours through the hotel?
What makes the Crocodile Hotel unique compared to other accommodations?
It’s a crocodile-shaped property (seriously), deeply connected to the local indigenous culture, with practical comforts and a prime spot for exploring Kakadu’s countless wonders. Plus, where else can you sleep in a croc’s belly and wake up for a swim in an outdoor pool?
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