There’s something about a waterfall that stops you in your tracks.
Maybe it’s the thunder of water hitting rock, or the way mist hangs in the air like a fine spray on your skin. South Africa truly is a beautiful country that has so much to offer.
If you’re planning a road trip or just need a reason to get out of the city, these are some of the country’s most rewarding waterfall stops right now.
Lisbon Falls
Set along the famous Panorama Route, Lisbon Falls is one of the tallest in the province, plunging about 94 metres into a green valley below. After good rains, the water fans out into multiple streams, making it especially photogenic.
How to get there: Drive along the R532 between Graskop and Ohrigstad. The falls are clearly signposted and easy to access with a short walk from the parking area.
Entrance fee: R25 per person (SA citizens)
Bridal Veil Falls
True to its name, this waterfall spills gently over the cliff face in thin strands that resemble a veil. It’s quieter than many nearby falls, which makes it ideal if you’re after a more peaceful stop.
How to get there: Located near Sabie, take the Old Lydenburg Road and follow the signs to Bridal Veil Falls. From the parking area, it’s a short and easy walk through the indigenous forest.
Entrance fee: R50 per person (SA citizens)
Augrabies Falls
Located in the Augrabies Falls National Park, this waterfall is less about elegance and more about raw power. The Orange River crashes 56 metres into a deep granite gorge, and when the river is in flood, the roar can be heard long before you see it.
How to get there: The park is about 120km west of Upington. Once inside, well-maintained boardwalks lead you to several viewpoints overlooking the falls.
Entrance fee: R73 (adult), R37 (child)
Howick Falls
Dropping 95 metres into a dramatic gorge, Howick Falls is as steeped in legend as it is in beauty. According to Zulu folklore, a giant serpent lives in the pool below.
How to get there: Just off the N3 near the town of Howick. It’s one of the easiest waterfalls to access in the country, with viewpoints right near the parking area.
Entrance fee: Free (main viewpoint)
Debengeni Falls
Hidden within the lush forests of Magoebaskloof, Debengeni Falls feels like a proper escape. The water tumbles over a series of rocky steps into clear pools, making it a great picnic spot.
How to get there: From Tzaneen, take the R71 towards Polokwane and follow signs into Magoebaskloof. A short walk from the parking area leads you to the falls.
Entrance fee: R50 per person (SA citizens)
Waterfall Bluff
This one is something special. Waterfall Bluff is one of the few places in the world where a river falls directly into the ocean. Set along the Wild Coast, it’s remote and completely worth the effort.
How to get there: The most common route is via the village of Mbotyi. From there, it’s a 6km to 8km hike along the coast to reach the viewpoint. A local guide is recommended.
Entrance fee: Free
South Africa’s waterfalls aren’t just scenic stops for a quick photo.
Each one has its own mood, from the thunder of Augrabies to the quiet forest setting of Debengeni.
If you’ve been craving a change of scenery without leaving the country, this is a good place to start.
Gerry Cupido
iol.co.za
