Florence Falls is one of the most popular attractions in Litchfield National Park, located just over an hour’s drive from Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory. Known for its twin cascades plunging into a natural swimming hole, the falls are an ideal stop for visitors looking to swim in a dramatic natural setting.
- Book a Litchfield National Park day tour from Darwin.
A striking twin waterfall
The main feature of Florence Falls is its two streams of water tumbling side by side over the escarpment into a deep plunge pool below. Surrounded by red rock cliffs and lush greenery, it’s a spot that makes for pretty photos. But it’s also excellent for cooling off in the tropical heat.
The falls flow year-round, but the volume of water is particularly impressive during the wet season.
Why book the Litchfield VIP Day Tour (Small Group)?
- 🚐 Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from central Darwin
- 🌊 Swim at natural waterfalls and pools including Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, and Berry Springs
- 🪰 Visit the Magnetic Termite Mounds and explore the Top End’s monsoon forest and savannah landscapes
- 🍽️ Enjoy a fresh picnic lunch by The Harvest Press, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available
- 🍪 Snacks, seasonal fruit, and drinks (tea, coffee, water) provided throughout the day
- 🤽 Pool noodles supplied for relaxed swimming in the waterholes
- ⏱ Full-day tour of around 10 hours, with a small group limited to 11 travellers
Swimming and safety
The plunge pool at the base of Florence Falls is one of the few designated safe swimming areas in Litchfield National Park. The waters are generally clear and cool, offering a welcome break from the humidity.
Visitors should always check the latest safety information, however, as conditions can change seasonally. Steps and railings provide access to the pool, making it relatively easy for most visitors to reach.
Walking tracks and lookouts
There are two main walking options for reaching Florence Falls. The short walk from the car park takes visitors to a lookout with panoramic views of the twin cascades and surrounding forest.
For those wanting to stretch their legs, the 1km Shady Creek Walk winds through monsoon rainforest before arriving at the base of the falls. Both walks are well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels.
Best time to visit
Florence Falls is open all year, but the experience varies with the seasons.
The wet season (November to April) brings dramatic flows and lush vegetation, although swimming is sometimes restricted due to safety conditions. Unusually for the Top End, this is not primarily about crocodiles – saltwater crocodiles don’t make it this far up the escarpment.
The dry season (May to October) offers more reliable access and is the most popular time for visitors, particularly for swimming in the plunge pool.
FAQs about Florence Falls
- Where is Florence Falls located? Florence Falls is in Litchfield National Park, about 90 minutes by road from Darwin.
- Can you swim at Florence Falls? Yes, the plunge pool is a designated swimming area and is popular with visitors, though conditions should always be checked first.
- How long is the walk to Florence Falls? The lookout is a short walk from the car park, while the Shady Creek Walk is around 1km and takes 20–30 minutes.
- When is the best time to visit? The dry season (May to October) offers the safest swimming conditions and easiest access.
- Is there an entry fee for Litchfield National Park? Entry to Florence Falls is free once inside the park, although you need to pay $10 for a Parks Pass. Go on a guided tour, and the pass is included in the tour price.
More Northern Territory travel
Other Northern Territory travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Swimming with crocodiles in Darwin’s Cage of Death.
- Six reasons to visit Darwin on an Australian holiday.
- Discovering the rock art of Kakadu National Park.
- The Victoria Settlement on the Cobourg Peninsula: Australia’s lost city.
- How worried should I be about crocodiles in Australia?
