Best of Darwin
Litchfield National Park from Darwin: Waterfalls, Swimming Holes and Termite Mounds
Litchfield National Park sits about 100 kilometres south of Darwin and is one of the most popular day trips from the city, particularly through the Dry Season. The park is anchored by a series of spectacular waterfalls, including Wangi Falls (with a large swimming hole), Florence Falls and Tolmer Falls, as well as the extraordinary magnetic termite mounds that line the main road. Most of the key sites are reachable on sealed roads, making a standard two-wheel-drive vehicle sufficient for most visitors. The park is open year-round, though some areas and 4WD tracks close in the Wet Season (November to April). Entry is free.
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- 1
Wangi Falls
The most accessible of Litchfield's major waterfalls, a large, swimmable pool below twin cascades, about 90 minutes from Darwin.
- 2
Florence Falls
A long walk down sandstone steps to a spectacular double waterfall and deep plunge pool, one of Litchfield's most beautiful swimming holes.
- 3
Magnetic Termite Mounds
A field of magnetic termite mounds aligned north-south to regulate temperature, an extraordinary natural phenomenon unique to Litchfield and the Top End.
- 4
Buley Rockhole
A series of natural rock pools in the creek below Florence Falls, perfect for children and accessible from a short walk.
- 5
Tolmer Falls Lookout
A viewpoint over a deep gorge and waterfall off-limits to swimming (home to a colony of rare ghost bats), with a rewarding 1.5km circuit walk.
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