The astounding variety of landscapes you can find in South Africa, from mountains and beaches to forests and savannas, is one of the things that makes our country so unique. With this diversity comes limitless opportunity for all kinds of adventures, waterfall-chasing being a particularly special one. Here are ten waterfalls around the country to chase.
1. Tugela Waterfall, Drakensberg
Forming part of the Tugela River, this waterfall is the highest in Africa. With a height of an estimated 950 meters, the waterfall has five drops that cascade down the amphitheatre wall. The best time to see this magnificent waterfall is after rain, as all five falls do not necessarily drop at once.
The waterfall begins at Mont-aux-Sources. The first route to the falls is via the Sentinel trail, which takes hikers on a 6.4km journey to the top of the Mont-aux-Sources. The second route is 7km long and follows the Tugela River upstream through the Tugela Gorge. The third trail is the quickest – however, necessary chain ladders have been put in place in precarious areas and this route not for those afraid of heights. In winter, the falls can freeze at the top, creating a mesmerising experience.
2. Augrabies Falls, Northern Cape
When the Orange River is at its fullest, the Augrabies Waterfall is a sight to behold. The Khoi named the falls ‘Aukoerebis’, meaning ‘Place of Great Noise’, as the powerful flow of the water is famously loud. The drop is approximately 56 meters. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk in the main camp and go to six different viewing decks to witness this natural spectacle from. The Augrabies National Park has many activities for hiking enthusiasts to embark on, such as the Klipspringer Hiking Trail or the Dassies Nature Trail.
3. The Berlin Falls, Mpumalanga
These waterfalls are found in the Blyde River Canyon area in the Panorama Route and have an 80m drop. The terrain of this waterfall is nothing short of spectacular, with red cliffs rising above the dark green water. Visitors are welcome to picnic while they marvel at this beautiful backdrop. Visitors can access the falls via car on an 11-minute drive from Graskop via the R532.
4. Howick Falls, KwaZulu-Natal
Located just outside of Pietermaritzburg and a two-hour drive from Durban is where you will find Howick Falls. With a drop of 95, the site of these falls is regarded as a sacred place by the local Zulu community. The view is mesmerising and there are many activities that visitors can do in addition to visiting the falls. Pack along your walking or hiking shoes for the official Howick Falls Gorge Walk and walk along a footpath, starting in Harvard Street and ending at the seat of the falls.
5. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Western Cape
If you find yourself in Cape Town’s Botanical Garden, traverse along the Yellowwood Trail and you will come across a permanent waterfall cascading down the mountainside. Visiting the site is particularly special after the winter rainfall and you’ll completely forget you’re in the heart of one of South Africa’s busiest cities. Spend the day exploring the gardens afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the restaurants or pack a picnic and blanket and find a shady spot under an oak tree to spend the day.
6. Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Western Cape
Located just outside of Stellenbosch, this Cape Nature reserve is a must-visit. With the lush valleys and mountains and many waterfalls to chase, a visit to this reserve is definitely worth it. The falls can be accessed via a hiking trail that follows the First River along to the First Waterfall. There’s also a route up to the Second Waterfall which is a slightly sharper climb. Visit the ticket office upon your arrival to pay the reserve’s entrance fee and to pick up a map of the area.
7. Magwa Waterfall, Eastern Cape
Found in the last remaining tea plantation in South Africa, the Magwa Falls have a 144m drop into a narrow canyon. The falls have been compared to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe due to their strong resemblance. The falls are accessible by car and it’s a 39-minute drive from Lusikisiki to the falls.
8. Lisbon Falls, Mpumalanga
Located 40 minutes away from Hazyview outside Blyde River canyon Nature Reserve, Lisbon Falls is an easily accessible visit. With a drop of 94m, Lisbon Falls is one of Mpumalanga’s highest waterfalls. The area’s ideal for picnics and is a birder’s paradise.
9. Mac-Mac Falls, Mpumalanga
Located along the Sabie Waterfalls Route, the Mac Mac Falls are twin waterfalls that drop 70m into the gorge below. The waterfall was split in two during the gold rush when miners blasted the single waterfall, separating it into two. During the dry season, however, it becomes one stream again. There’s a viewing platform for visitors to take in the dazzling site safely. There are pools around the falls where visitors can spend the day enjoying water activities, braaing or picnicking.
10. Bridal Veil Falls
The Bridal Veil Falls lie along the Panorama Route, 6km from the town of Sabie. The falls are accessible by foot on a walk that is under 1km, after the payment of an entrance fee at the gate. Bridal Veil Falls are perfect for those looking for a quiet day out in nature. There’s also plenty to do for the adventurous types, including mountain biking, white-water rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and abseiling.
Image source: Melanie van Zyl
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