Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park
Florence Falls
Twin waterfalls in Litchfield National Park that drop into a deep pool surrounded by monsoon rainforest. It is Darwin locals' favourite natural swimming hole on weekends.
Litchfield National Park lies about 100 km south of Darwin (roughly 1.5 hours' drive), and is famous for its waterfalls and natural swimming holes along the edges of the sandstone plateau. It makes an easy day trip from Darwin. Florence Falls is one of its most popular spots. Two streams pour over the plateau cliff into a round, deep green pool surrounded by monsoon rainforest. From the car park, you can visit the lookout for a full view of the falls, then walk down about 135 steps to swim at the base. Alternatively, follow the creek on the Shady Creek trail for a loop back. Nearby, Buley Rockhole is a series of stepped little pools, ideal for relaxing in the water. Other highlights in the park include the magnetic termite mounds, which are about 2 m tall, flat like gravestones and aligned north–south to regulate temperature, and the Cathedral Termite Mound, about 5 m high. In the west of the park, Wangi Falls is another large waterfall with a swimming pool, accessible by 2WD vehicles. The Northern Territory charges entry fees for some national parks for non-residents, so check the NT Parks official website for current rules. Notes: swim only in pools marked as safe for swimming. During the wet season, some pools close because saltwater crocodiles may enter. Bring swimwear, a towel and sunscreen.
Opening hours
Open all day (swimming areas open per posted notices)
Nearby sights
- Buley Rockhole
- Magnetic Termite Mounds
- Bamboo Creek Tin Mine
- Walker Creek
- Tabletop Swamp
- The Cascades, Litchfield
- Wangi Falls
- Tjaetaba Falls (Greenant Creek)