Just a 90-minute drive south of Darwin, Litchfield National Park is one of the Northern Territory’s most spectacular and accessible natural attractions. Famed for its cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, towering termite mounds, and rugged bush landscapes, Litchfield offers a perfect day trip or overnight escape into the Top End’s untamed beauty.

Covering around 1,500 square kilometres, the park is a haven for nature lovers, photographers, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the raw Australian wilderness without venturing too far off the beaten track. Unlike more remote locations, Litchfield’s highlights are easy to access via sealed roads and well-maintained walking trails, making it suitable for self-drivers, guided tours, and even families with young children.

Iconic Waterfalls and Swimming Spots

Litchfield’s waterfalls and plunge pools are its biggest drawcards, offering refreshing respite from the tropical heat. Wangi Falls is perhaps the most popular, with twin falls spilling into a large swimming area surrounded by monsoon forest. It’s easily accessible and equipped with picnic areas, barbecues, and walking trails.

Florence Falls offers a more adventurous experience with a short hike down to the waterhole, where visitors can swim beneath the cascading falls or relax on sun-warmed rocks. Nearby, Buley Rockhole features a series of shallow pools connected by small cascades—ideal for relaxing dips and lazy afternoons.

Tolmer Falls, while not open for swimming, impresses visitors with its dramatic drop into a deep plunge pool below. The lookout walk offers panoramic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including black flying foxes that roost in the surrounding trees.

Ancient Landscapes and Termite Mounds

Litchfield is also home to some of the Top End’s most fascinating natural phenomena—magnetic termite mounds. These towering, tombstone-like structures are built by termites using precise alignment with Earth’s magnetic field. Nearby, cathedral termite mounds can rise over four metres tall, showcasing the incredible architecture of these tiny insects.

The park’s landscapes tell a story of ancient geological forces, with sandstone escarpments, monsoon forests, and spring-fed creeks creating a biodiverse ecosystem. The contrast of red rock, green vegetation, and blue water creates postcard-perfect scenery at every turn.

Wildlife and Bushwalks

Wildlife in Litchfield is abundant. Agile wallabies, sugar gliders, goannas, and over 160 species of birds call the park home. Early morning or late afternoon walks often reward visitors with sightings of native animals in their natural habitat.

Several walking trails range from short, family-friendly strolls to more challenging hikes for seasoned bushwalkers. The Tabletop Track, a 39 km loop, is a multi-day trek for those wanting to experience the park’s remote corners and camp under the stars.

Practical Info

Litchfield is open year-round, though the dry season (May to October) is ideal for swimming and hiking. The wet season brings dramatic waterfalls and lush greenery, but some sites may be closed due to flooding.