South Africa is melting pot of diversity. From a multitude of cultures, to a natural world laden with endemic animals and plant life.
Our country is also home to some epic waterfalls. From the famous Howick Falls to the lesser known seasonal rapids, take a look at some travel favourites:
Howick Falls, KwaZulu-Natal
The hallowed Howick Falls, also known as KwaNogqaza, meaning the ‘place of the tall one’ in Zulu, is a 95 metre high waterfall that holds a special place in many hearts. With many hiking trails and walks, visitors are given the chance to fully immerse themselves in the surrounds of the falls.
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Mac-Mac Falls, Mpumalanga
The Mac-Mac are twin falls that drop 70m into a gorge below in the Sabie area in Mpumalanga. The Sabie Waterfalls Route boasts some incredible natural sites, with Mac-Mac revered as the best of the lot.
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Crystal pools, Western Cape
Crystal Pools is the ultimate outdoor experience. The higher you climb, the greater the reward. Cascading waterfalls make for a tranquil end to a strenuous day in the sun.
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Krom River, Du Toitskloof, Western Cape
Du Toitskloof is a world of its own. With dramatic, steep cliff faces and crystal clear mountain water flowing through the river, it’s no wonder one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country can be found along the Krom River Hiking trail.
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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.
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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 amphitheater wall. The best time to see this magnificent waterfall is after rain, as all five falls do not necessarily drop at once.
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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.
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Read: The History of Howick Falls
Image: Instagram/ bartvdvendel
