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At China Crocodile Lake, visitors can enjoy boat rides to view crocodiles in their natural habitat, visit the crocodile breeding area, and explore the surrounding wildlife park. It's also a great spot for bird watching, nature walks, and relaxing by the lake.
China Crocodile Lake, located in the Xiadu Forest Area, three kilometers south of Xuancheng City, Anhui Province, is the largest Yangtze alligator protection base in China and the only Yangtze alligator nature reserve in the world. There are nearly 10,000 Yangtze alligators in the lake, with the ability to reproduce 1,500 per year . The Yangtze alligator has crossed the " endangered line " .
This area is a rolling hilly landscape with tall trees and shrubs, along with thickets of grass and thorns along the banks, creating a well-covered vegetation landscape. Gullies, ponds, valleys, and reservoirs run through the area, forming a network of waterways that creates an ideal habitat for the Chinese alligator.
Since 1987 , the park has opened more than 20 attractions, including a bear pond, monkey island, deer park, bamboo house, racecourse, fishing area, crocodile show, and children's playground. The exhibition hall uses sound and light to provide tourists with scientific knowledge and aesthetic education on ecology, environmental protection, and other issues.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
30 yuan/person
April 1st - October 31st : 7 : 30-18 :00
November 1st - March 31st : 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
China Crocodile Lake is known for its large population of freshwater crocodiles, a rare and protected species in China. The area is dedicated to crocodile research, breeding, and conservation efforts, making it an important ecological site.
China Crocodile Lake is located in Xuancheng, Anhui. It is best accessed by taxi or private car from the city center, as public transportation options are limited. The lake is about a 30-minute drive from Xuancheng.
It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the crocodiles are most active.
The entrance fee is approximately 50-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online via local travel platforms.
Booking in advance is not necessary unless visiting during peak seasons or holidays. It's recommended to book tickets a day or two ahead if you're traveling during these times.
You can explore the main areas of China Crocodile Lake in about 2-3 hours, which includes taking a boat ride, walking around the park, and visiting the crocodile exhibits.
Must-see highlights include the crocodile breeding area, the boat ride on the lake to view crocodiles, and the wildlife areas surrounding the lake, which are home to various bird species and other animals.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be provided in Mandarin for visitors wishing to explore the park independently.
Great photo opportunities are available during the boat rides, especially around the crocodile breeding areas and along the lake shores where birds and wildlife can be seen.
Start with the crocodile breeding area, then take the boat ride around the lake for a closer look at the crocodiles. Afterward, walk through the wildlife park and enjoy the views from the elevated areas around the lake.
There are no night visits or light shows available at China Crocodile Lake. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
The attraction can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
There are basic facilities including toilets, food stalls, and rest areas around the park. For a wider selection, head to Xuancheng city, where there are more dining and shopping options.
The main areas are accessible for elderly and children, though the terrain around the lake may be uneven in certain spots. The boat rides are typically accessible for most visitors.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, and credit cards may be accepted in larger areas.
There are small local restaurants near the entrance offering simple meals. For more options, visit Xuancheng city, which is a short drive away and offers a variety of dining choices.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but Xuancheng city has more diverse food choices to cater to these dietary needs.
There are budget hotels and guesthouses in Xuancheng, as well as a few mid-range accommodations. For a more extensive selection, staying in the city center would be a better option.
Other nearby attractions include the Xuancheng Museum and the scenic Tangyue Memorial Archway Village. Both can be easily combined for a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local handicrafts, crocodile-themed items, and regional snacks.
You can take a taxi or local bus back to Xuancheng city. From there, you can continue your journey by train or bus to other destinations in Anhui province.
