Encapsulated in the lush landscape and spectacular scenery of Litchfield National Park, approximately an hour and a half from Darwin, the magnificent rock pools and waterholes of Buley Rockhole (pronounced “Bew-lee“) offer visitors a glorious oasis to relax, unwind and retreat from the heat after a long day of exploration and adventure in the park. To get there, you will need to hire a car, or you may wish to consider a Litchfield National Park tour.
What can you see and do at Buley Rockholes?
There are too many reasons why Buley Rockholes is one of the most popular swimming spots in the Top End. This collection of ancient rock pools has been formed over thousands of years as a network of layered rock holes, picturesque three-tiered pools, natural spas and a series of whirlpools. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a refreshing swim, take a dive in the pristine plunge pools, splash around in the shallows or kick back, lounge about and allow the cool water to rush over your shoulders and get a free massage from the fast-moving natural rapids as you take in the scenic bush surrounds.
When is the best time to visit Buley Rockholes?
The cascading pools are easy to access and are open for visitors for most of the year; however, it is advised not to swim during the wet season. A breezy 1.5km walk from the car park will get you to the pools. Alternatively, you can stretch your legs and explore the ‘Florence Creek Walk’ scenic route with a slightly longer 3.2-kilometre return, where you can enjoy trekking through the native woodlands. Thick monsoonal vine forests sprawled out between Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole. Whilst out hiking, keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant array of colourful plants and flowers, the hundreds of different species of local wildlife and the various native bird species that can be spotted throughout the park.
In 1920 the rock hole was renamed after Norman Buley, an engineer who led a government prospecting party sent to examine areas drained by the Katherine, Fitzmaurice and Daly Rivers at the time. However, the site has held special cultural significance to the Koongurrukun people as a designated family area for thousands of years. Plenty of private spots, different-sized pools, and crystal clear, shallow waters make it safe for toddlers, children or beginners of all ages to enjoy playing, swimming and splashing about in. However, some of the rock shelves can be surprisingly quite deep (greater than 2 metres), and the rocks do tend to get quite slippery at times, so make sure to scope out the area first to get your bearings and move mindfully.
The lower pools offer a shady respite from the tropical northern Australian climate, where you can cool off and rejuvenate on a hot day; in contrast, the upper pools allow you to bask in the sunshine and soak up the full solar radiance and glow of the Aussie sun. These waters are also crocodile free, so you can relax and spend hours immersed in the peaceful surroundings of the rock holes without worrying about getting snapped up or losing limbs!
The surrounding landscape of Buley Rockholes is a vibrant paradise of majestic waterfalls, including the spectacular double cascades of ‘Wangi Falls’ and ‘Florence Falls that flow abundantly all year round. The area boasts pockets of thick monsoonal rainforest, native woodlands, wild, rugged cliffs and spectacular, jaw-dropping views that will take your breath away. For those with an adventurous spirit, Litchfield National Park is a natural wonderland that offers a selection of different walking trails through scenic bushlands that open out into vast savanna plains and panoramic views of the open valley gorge. It’s also home to some of the enormous magnetic termite mounds in the Top End and historic ruins that can be dated back to the pioneering days at Blyth Homestead and Bamboo Creek, which are well worth exploring. Booking one of our Darwin tours is a great way to see all this.
FAQ
What can you do at Buley Rockholes?
When is the best time to visit Buley Rockholes?
The pools are best enjoyed in the dry season (May–October). During the wet season, swimming is discouraged due to safety concerns.
Is it safe to swim at Buley Rockholes?
Yes, the pools are considered crocodile-free and suitable for families. Just be cautious of slippery rocks and deeper shelves in some areas.
How do I get to Buley Rockholes?
What else can I see near Buley Rockholes?
Nearby highlights include Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, magnetic termite mounds, Blyth Homestead ruins, and scenic walking trails across Litchfield National Park.
Related Tours
Are you looking for a breathtaking adventure in the Northern Territory? Look no further than our Kakadu Tours! Our expert guides will take you through the lush rainforests and towering waterfalls of Kakadu National Park, where you will witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
But that’s not all! Our all-inclusive package also includes a thrilling Jumping Crocodile Cruise, where you can watch these powerful creatures soar through the air to catch their prey. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore Katherine Gorge and witness the stunning beauty of Edith Falls, as well as taking in all that Uluru has to offer.
Our tours are perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. So whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or just want to connect with nature, our Kakadu Tours are the perfect fit for you. Book now and join us for an adventure of a lifetime!
