Litchfield National Park, Australia

Established in 1986 and spanning over 1,500 square kilometers, Litchfield National Park is a gem of the Northern Territory, located approximately 110-120 km southwest of Darwin (a 1.5-2 hour drive). Its accessibility and compact layout make it ideal for day trips from Darwin or overnight camping adventures.

The park boasts of the famous waterfalls such as Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, and Tolmer Falls, magnetic termite mounds, historic ruins, and scenic bushwalks.

Fun Fact: Litchfield has been named after the explorer Frederick Henry Litchfield, who was among the pioneers of the Northern Territory.

Litchfield National Park is the playground of nature with refreshing swimming holes and dramatic rock escarpments. The following are the highlights that should not be missed:

• Florence Falls: Dual falls with drops into a deep swimming pool encircled in monsoon forest.
• Wangi Falls: The most famous waterfall in the park, which is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and observing wildlife.
• Buley Rockhole: A series of small natural pools that are perfect when taking a relaxing dip.
• Tolmer Falls: This is a high-drop waterfall that has a viewing platform of the gorge.
• Magnetic Termite Mounds: Soaring buildings that point north-south to maintain temperature, an amazing natural engineering project.

Lost City: The structure is a web of sandstone structures that seem like ancient ruins.

• Location: Northern Territory, Australia (110-120 km southwest of Darwin)
• Nearest City: Darwin
• Park Entrance Fee: Free (a few tour operators charge for visiting via a tour)
• Suggested Duration: 1-2 days
• Peak Season: May-October (Dry Season)

• Berry Springs Nature Park—Excellent for taking a dip.
• Territory Wildlife Park—Get close to indigenous animals.
• Adelaide River—the Jumping Crocodile Cruises.
• Darwin Waterfront Precinct—To eat, swim, and watch the sunset after your adventure in Litchfield.

Day Trip Tip: Litchfield National Park tours can be combined with a trip to Darwin so as to have the full Northern Territory experience.

Swim at Florence Falls, Litchfield National Park

A twin waterfall cascading into a darkened pool of plunge—the perfect location to swim and take photographs.

• Advice: Go in the morning so that one does not have to stand in queues. There is a short 160-step staircase that goes down to the pool, and the viewing platform that is above gives a spectacular view.

Explore Wangi Falls & Monsoon Rainforest Walk

The most accessible and the most popular location in the Litchfield National Park. Swim, picnic, and take a short walk through a monsoon rainforest.

• Safety Note: Swimming can be prohibited during high-water wet seasons. At certain times of the year, local notices will advise, "Do not swim."

Relax at Buley Rockhole Natural Pools

Ideal relaxation—a flowing stream of little pools where you may bathe yourself in warm and clear water under the trees.

• Note: It is best in the morning or during the late afternoon when the crowds are not present.

View Tolmer Falls, Litchfield Gorge Lookout

Falls in two tiers into a deep gorge below (swimming is prohibited to protect wildlife)

• Pro Tip: Here, swimming is prohibited; however, the lookout has one of the best panoramic photo points of the park.

Discover Magnetic Termite Mounds

These termite constructions are exactly 2m tall, running along a north-south axis— a natural wonder that serves to control the internal temperature.

• Fun Fact: They are only found in the Top End area and are constructed by grass-eating termites (Amitermes meridionalis) that align them north-south for temperature control.

Off-Road to The Lost City (4WD only, dry season)

This is an adventure that deviates from the road to reveal a magical world of sandstone pillars that have been eroded over centuries.

• Approach: 4WD only in the dry season.

Sandy Creek (near Walker Creek area)

A peaceful creek that is perfect for private dashes and quick walks.

• Pro Tip: Carry snorkeling equipment—the waters are home to fish and other aquatic animals.

• Open: Open all year Round (some may close in wet seasons during floods)
• Dry Season (May-Oct): Perfect when it comes to swimming, hiking and camping.
• Wet Season (Nov-Apr): Ideal in terms of photographers and waterfall lovers; some places might not be accessible.

Extra Tip: If you are going on a trip in Darwin, it is advisable to get away early in the morning to see the majority of the attractions within a day.

• Driving from Darwin to Litchfield National Park: Approximately 1.5-2 hours (110-120 km) on the Stuart Highway and Batchelor Road.
• Litchfield Day Tours from Darwin: Many Litchfield day tours include hotel pickup, a tour guide, and lunch.
• Visiting Litchfield by Campervan or 4WD: Campervans are also a good idea for an overnight camp, either in Wangi or Florence Falls campgrounds.
• Litchfield–Kakadu–Katherine Loop Itinerary: Add a Litchfield-Kakadu loop to your Northern Territory adventure to have a wide variety of different landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife.

• Carry with you a swimsuit, hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Check swimming area safety signs; some pools are shut down during rainy seasons.
• Bring in the necessary quantity of water and snacks; services are sparse within the park.
• 4WD is required for remote sites like Lost City and Sandy Creek.
• Tourists can combine their trip with Katherine Gorge or Kakadu to have a complete Top End package.
• The best time to visit Litchfield National Park is in the early morning or overnight when the sun is shining and there are fewer people.

Although food facilities are scarce in Litchfield National Park, there are other facilities near the park, including Batchelor town and Wangi Falls Cafe, where one can find simple meals and drinks.

Accommodation options near Litchfield:

• Litchfield Safari Camp (Wangi Falls )- Glamping and powered camping sites.
• Batchelor Holiday Park - Low-cost cabins and campgrounds.
• Litchfield Outback Resort - Bar and restaurant with comfortable rooms.

Pro Tip: Camp under the stars within the park for an authentic outback experience, and Wangi Falls and Florence Falls campgrounds are frequently used by backpackers and families.

Day 1 - Classic Waterfalls & Natural Wonders

• Depart Darwin early morning.
• See Florence Falls and Magnetic Termite Mounds.
• Lunch at Buley Rockhole, and then a swim.
• Evening at Wangi Falls, and then camp.

Day 2 - 4WD Adventures & Secluded Swimming Holes

• First visit to Tolmer Falls Lookout.
• Explore The Lost City (4WD only).
• Picnic lunch at Sandy Creek and on returning to Darwin.

• It is just a 1.5-hour drive from Darwin, easy to get to and loaded with adventure.
• Offers swimming holes, waterfalls, and unique natural phenomena like magnetic termite mounds
• Not as crowded as Kakadu, but no less beautiful.
• Ideal for families, couples, and individual adventurers.

It is a must-do: the Northern Territory itinerary.

Litchfield National Park perfectly captures the spirit of the Northern Territory, a stunning mix of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rock pools, and lush tropical scenery. It’s a place where adventure meets serenity, making it a must-visit stop on any Northern Australia journey. Whether you’re exploring Darwin or venturing deeper into the Red Centre, make sure to include Litchfield National Park in your itinerary for an authentic taste of Australia’s untamed beauty. Plan your visit with Pickyourtrail, where you can choose from tailor-made Australia packages that feature Darwin day tours, nature escapes, and curated experiences designed to help you uncover the very best of the Northern Territory.