Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel | Kakadu National Park
<p>A novelty-architecture hotel – one of the more delightfully bizarre entries in the “buildings shaped like the thing they represent” genre</p>
Why we like it
Some hotels have a theme. This one has a mouth. The Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is, quite literally, shaped like a giant saltwater croc – you check in through its jaws, sleep somewhere along its 200-metre body, and cool off in a pool tucked into its belly.
It’s the kind of only-in-the-NT idea that sounds like a joke until you’re standing in front of it, and then it’s just brilliant.
Additional info
Built by the Gagudju Association and opened in 1988, the hotel is Indigenous-owned and was designed with genuine cultural weight behind the concept – the crocodile is a significant totem for the local Gaagudju people, not just a gimmick for the postcards.
It’s since been run under the Mercure banner, but the shape (and the story behind it) hasn’t changed a bit. From the air, there’s no mistaking what you’re looking at.
Features:
Where?
Kakadu National ParkState
Northern TerritoryWho we recommend it for
Families road-tripping through the Top End, wildlife-and-culture travellers ticking off Kakadu's rock art and wetlands, and anyone who thinks the best hotel stories start with "so we stayed inside a crocodile once." Kids especially love working out which part of the croc their room is in.Bedrooms
110 air-conditioned rooms run the length of the croc’s body, each with queen, double or twin configurations that sleep up to four.
Expect tea and coffee facilities, a mini fridge, local Aboriginal artwork on the walls, and courtyard or pool views depending where along the reptile you land.
Things to do nearby
Ubirr’s ancient rock art, the towering Jim Jim and Twin Falls, Cahills Crossing (where the real crocodiles hang out), and the birdlife-rich Mamukala Wetlands are all within easy reach.
Back at the hotel, browse the on-site Indigenous art gallery, cool off in the courtyard pool, or head to the neighbouring township for a round of golf or tennis.
Food and drink
The Escarpment Restaurant and Bar serves up Kakadu bush tucker alongside more familiar fare – think buffet breakfasts, à la carte dinners, and yes, the hotel does put crocodile on the menu (make of that what you will).
It’s also one of the few proper dining options in Jabiru, so it does a lot of the heavy lifting.
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