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Hidden Waterfalls You Must See in South Africa

There’s nothing better than a waterfall on a hike, during a picnic, or as part of a scenic drive. Luckily for South Africans, there are plenty to be found.

2min read

Published 13 January 2025

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

There’s nothing better than a waterfall on a hike, during a picnic, or as part of a scenic drive. Luckily for South Africans, there are plenty to be found.

While the famous ones draw crowds and plenty of visitors, there are plenty of smaller hidden gems which remain hidden and secluded. If your idea of a perfect trip involves waterfalls without throngs of visitors, check out one of these five spots on your next weekend away.

In this blog

1. Bridal Veil Falls, Mpumalanga

The Sabie area already has some pretty amazing things on offer, but you should definitely take a little time out of your trip to head over to the Bridal Veil Falls. Why is it named that way? Well, the water cascades around 70 metres over a cliff, and the white water makes it look pretty similar to a bride’s veil flowing down behind her as she walks down the aisle!

The falls are a short, enjoyable hike from the parking area through forest, so it’s accessible to most people. That said, you still feel like you’re in a secluded and private little area away from the hustle and bustle of it all.

2. Karkloof Falls, KwaZulu-Natal

In the heart of the Karkloof Nature Reserve, is a 105-meter high waterfall; one of KwaZulu-Natal's best-kept secrets. The area around the falls is a dense woodland, thick with indigenous trees like Yellowwoods and Stinkwood. For that added mystical forest vibe, there’s also an abundance of wildlife and birds, including the rare Karkloof Blue butterfly. There are plenty of designated picnic spots dotted around, so you can enjoy lunch or brunch sprawled out on the grass listening to the sound of the falls. And to fight off that 2pm food coma, the reserve also features several walking trails.

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3. Debengeni Falls, Limpopo

Sitting pretty in the Magoesbaskloof area near Tzaneen - in the Limpopo Province - Debengeni Falls is a picturesque waterfall that is ideal for a family outing. What makes it so family-friendly? Well, aside from the waterfall and the forest being beautiful in their own right, there’s also a crystal-clear pool at the bottom. In the heat of summer, it’s cool and refreshing for an afternoon plunge.

Plus, the area around the falls has picnic spots and braai facilities with tables and benches, so there’s places to cook, eat, and watch the falls as the family swims.

4. Castle Gorge Waterfall, Magaliesberg

Hidden deep in the Magaliesberg, Castle Gorge is one of those places the Joburgers like to try and keep to themselves. And why wouldn't they? About an hour’s journey from Johannesburg, the trail leads through shady kloofs and sunlit plateaus before opening onto the Castle Gorge. Here, you'll find a waterfall which spills into natural plunge pools. Can you swim? Yes, definitely - but be warned that the water is definitely more 'mountain refreshing' than 'Durban warm'.

Hikers can apply for permits through the Johannesburg Hiking Club (unless you're an MCSA member with a guest). It's a little bit more effort than a regular hike, but the permits are in place so the area remains peaceful, unspoilt, and well preserved.

5. Waterfall Bluff, Eastern Cape

For something totally out of the ordinary, Waterfall Bluff is one of the few waterfalls in the world which plunges directly into the ocean. The wild coast region of the Eastern Cape is known for being rugged, remote, and as the name suggests, a bit wild. So, this is a trip which is best suited to the adventurous traveller; getting there is an adventure in itself, and you’ll need to hike for a decent distance along the coastline.

Whether you're an enthusiastic hiker ready to tackle new trails or just someone who loves to soak in beautiful views, these hidden gem waterfalls are the kind of spots that will have you falling in love with our Rainbow Nation. Don’t forget your camera— you’ll definitely want to capture these memories!

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