The 7 Most Breathtaking Waterfalls in South Africa

Hey there! Have you ever wondered about the incredible beauty of waterfalls? I certainly have! They are such fascinating wonders of nature!

Today, I want to share with you the top 7 waterfalls in South Africa that I find absolutely awe-inspiring. Let’s dive right in and explore these magnificent natural wonders together!

Victoria Falls

Ah, Victoria Falls! This majestic waterfall is truly a sight to behold. With its thunderous roar and the stunning display of water plunging down, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Standing at over 100 meters tall and spanning almost two kilometers wide, it’s the largest waterfall in the world.

When you stand at the edge of Victoria Falls and feel the mist on your face, you can’t help but be overcome by a sense of awe and wonder. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!

Tugela Falls

The Tugela Falls, located in the Drakensberg Mountains, are the second highest waterfall in the world. It’s a magnificent sight, with water cascading down a series of five tiers. The hike to reach the top of the falls is quite challenging, but the reward is well worth it. From the summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the cascading water below.

Augrabies Falls

Augrabies Falls, situated in the Augrabies Falls National Park, is a true natural wonder. The Khoi people called it “Aukoerebis,” meaning “place of great noise,” and they weren’t wrong. The sheer power and force of the water as it thunders down into the rocky gorge below will leave you speechless.

Lisbon Falls

Nestled within the scenic Panorama Route, Lisbon Falls is a hidden gem in South Africa. It’s a double-tiered waterfall, cascading gracefully down into a picturesque pool below. The lush greenery surrounding the falls adds to its charm, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Howick Falls

Located in the town of Howick, Howick Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall that towers 95 meters high. The water plunges into a deep pool, creating a mesmerizing sight. Legend has it that the pool at the bottom of the falls is the residence of the Inkanyamba, a giant serpent-like creature.

Bourke’s Luck Potholes

Bourke’s Luck Potholes, found in the Blyde River Canyon, is a natural wonder created by centuries of swirling water. The water has sculpted cylindrical rock formations and potholes in the bedrock, creating a unique and breathtaking sight. It’s a photographer’s dream!

Mac Mac Falls

Mac Mac Falls, located in the Mpumalanga province, is a spectacular waterfall that cascades down a series of rocky cliffs. The name “Mac Mac” comes from the Scottish miners who came to South Africa during the gold rush. They named the falls after the mackintosh raincoats they wore while working in the rain. It’s a fascinating piece of history!

Well, those are the 7 most impressive waterfalls in South Africa! Each one has its own unique charm and beauty. If you ever have the chance to visit South Africa, be sure to add these breathtaking waterfalls to your itinerary. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Do you ever wonder what makes waterfalls so captivating? Is it their powerful and enchanting nature? Or maybe it’s the invisible negative ions they emit?

These negative ions, found within the mist of swiftly flowing water, are oxygen atoms that have gained an extra electron, resulting in a negative charge. When we are in close proximity to these ions, we absorb them as positive energy. According to Pierce J. Howard, the author of The Owner’s Manual for the Brain, these ions enter our bloodstream and enhance our serotonin production, ultimately making us happier. It’s science, really!

So, being near waterfalls is like being surrounded by nature’s own fireworks, igniting happiness within us. But where can you find the best waterfalls in South Africa? Well, you’re in luck because we have gathered them all for you!

Tugela Falls

Wow, check out that rainbow! It’s amazing how the light reflects in just the right way to create this beautiful phenomenon. Credit to the photographer on Flickr for capturing such a stunning image.

Now, let’s talk about something big – Tugela Falls. These falls are made up of five separate free-leaping falls, and when you add them all up, they have a total drop of 948 meters. That’s pretty impressive! The tallest of these falls is an uninterrupted leap of 411 meters, which makes it the second-tallest waterfall in the world. The title of the tallest uninterrupted waterfall goes to Angel Falls in Venezuela, which stands at a height of 979 meters and has a plunge of 807 meters.

Have you ever heard of Tugela? It’s a Zulu word meaning ‘startling’ and it perfectly captures the essence of this river. Every now and then, the Tugela River surprises us with its sudden and powerful floods. The source of this impressive river is located in the Mont-Aux-Sources plateau, just a few kilometers away from The Amphitheatre escarpment, the very spot where the Tugela Falls plunge down. If you want to witness the breathtaking view of the falls, I suggest embarking on a five to eight-hour round-trip hike that starts and ends at The Sentinel car park. Another option would be to take the trail that leads to the foot of the falls, which you can access from the Royal Natal National Park.

The hike through the Tugela Gorge is a relatively easy 7 km journey that takes you through beautiful indigenous forests. Towards the end of the trek, you’ll encounter a fascinating sight – the boulder hop. Yes, you read that right! You’ll have to hop along the boulders as you make your way to Tugela Falls. And if that’s not enough of an adventure for you, there’s a little chain ladder waiting for you at the final stretch. Take a hold of it and climb up for a magnificent view of the falls cascading down the amphitheater in a stunning series of five cascades.

Let’s Talk About Howick Falls

When I stand at the edge of Howick Falls, towering 95 meters above me, I can’t help but feel a sense of wonder. The Zulu people have given this natural wonder the name KwaNogqaza, which means ‘Place of the Tall One’. It’s understandable why they would call it that – the falls truly are a magnificent sight.

Legend has it that at the bottom of Howick Falls lies a pool that is not just a pool, but the home of a mythical creature, the Inkanyamba. This creature is said to be a giant serpent-like being. The local people believe that only sangomas, traditional healers, can safely approach the falls. And even they can only do so to offer prayers and worship to the Inkanyamba, as well as the ancestral spirits and the ‘Great God’.

If you want the best view of Howick Falls, head to the viewing platform in the heart of Howick’s town. From there, you can take in the full splendor of the 95-meter waterfall. But if you’re up for an adventure, I recommend following the trail through Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve. This trail will lead you to the bottom of the falls, where you can witness their power up close and personal. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Have you ever heard of Howick falls? It’s a pretty well-known waterfall with a bit of a dark history. I was amazed to learn that there have been 40 deaths at these falls, dating all the way back to 1851. Isn’t that crazy?

Speaking of crazy, let me tell you about what happened to Jeb Corliss in 1999. He had a seriously close call when he decided to do a BASE jump into the waterfall. His parachute didn’t open properly and he was sucked right into the rushing water. Can you believe it? Talk about a wild adventure!

But that’s not all…

Mac Mac Falls, you’ve gotta say it twice because it’s just that nice. Credit: Travelground

Mac Mac got its name from the Scottish gold miners who came to this area during the late 1800s gold rushes. These miners were often called by surnames starting with ‘Mac’ because of their Scottish heritage. Interestingly, it was these same miners who used dynamite to blast the river, which used to be a single stream, in their search for gold along the rich reef that the falls now cascade over.

Hey there! Let’s talk about Mac Mac Falls, a stunning waterfall located right next to Graskop Road, about 14 km north of Sabie. Standing at an impressive height of 70m, Mac Mac Falls is a sight to behold. If you’re up for some exploration, you have a couple of options.

If you prefer an easier route, there’s a paved path and steps that lead down to a viewing platform. This platform extends a little way over a cliff, giving you a fantastic view of the falls. It’s a great spot to take in the beauty and power of nature.

But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can take the tarred road for about 100 meters and then follow the stream to the top of the falls. This hike will reward you with a different perspective and a closer encounter with the falls. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature and experience the breathtaking sights and sounds up close.

For the ultimate experience, I recommend going all the way down to the base of the falls. It’s a bit more challenging, but definitely worth it. You’ll find that fewer people venture down there, so you’ll have a greater sense of solitude and tranquility. Standing at the base, you’ll truly appreciate the magnitude and magnificence of Mac Mac Falls.

So, whether you choose to admire the falls from the viewing platform, hike to the top, or venture down to the base, Mac Mac Falls promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature in a way that only a waterfall can offer.

Augrabies Falls

Whoa, hold onto your hats! Get ready for a mind-blowing adventure to the one and only Augrabies Falls, baby! Check it out:

We’re talking about the biggest waterfall on the Orange River, all tucked away in the awesome Augrabies Falls National Park. This place has been protected since way back in 1966! Can you believe it? Anyway, let me tell you what makes this place so dang special.

First things first, the Augrabies Falls gorge is a whopping 240 meters deep, and it stretches out a mind-boggling 18 kilometers. Pretty insane, right? But hey, it’s not just the size that’s impressive – it’s the noise too! The Khoikhoi people who were here first called it ‘Ankoerebis,’ which means ‘place of great noise.’ And oh boy, they weren’t kidding!

Now let’s talk about the falls themselves. They’re about 56 meters high, which is no joke. But it’s the thunderous sound they make that really grabs your attention. Just imagine standing there, tiny and in awe, as the water roars and pounds its way down. It’s like nature turned up the volume to eleven!

Here’s a fun little fact for you: Augrabies Falls got its name from the Trek Boers, who were the settlers that came after the Khoikhoi. They heard that immense noise and decided to call it ‘Augrabies’ in honor of the Khoikhoi name, ‘Ankoerebis.’ I think that’s pretty cool, don’t you?

Hey there! Let me tell you an interesting story about this beautiful place and its remarkable falls. The last leader of the area’s khoikhoi residents was Klaas Pofadder. He used to live on an island just upstream of the falls. Nowadays, that island is known as Klaas Island. Pretty cool, huh?

Now, let’s jump to a different character in our story. Have you ever heard of Hendrik Jakob Wikar? He was a Swedish mercenary who went against the norm and decided to explore the wilderness. In October 1778, after years of wandering, he became the first westerner to lay eyes on these famous falls. Talk about being adventurous!

Okay, now I’ll give you a mind-blowing fact about these falls. Brace yourself! In 1988 and 2006, the Augrabies Falls experienced massive floods. Guess how much water was flowing every second during those floods? A staggering 7,800 cubic meters! That’s more than three times the amount of water that flows during the high season at Niagara Falls. It even surpassed Niagara’s all-time record. Can you believe it?

Lisbon Falls

Hey there! Let me tell you about the world’s best shower. It’s located at Lisbon Falls, the highest and most breathtaking waterfall on the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga. Standing tall at an impressive 92 meters, it’s part of the incredible ‘Waterfalls Tour’ in the area.

Now, besides Lisbon Falls, there are other fantastic waterfalls to explore along this route. Get ready to be amazed by Horseshoe Falls, Lone Creek Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Mac Mac Falls, Maria Shires Falls, and the stunning Berlin Falls. Each one is a sight to behold!

Did you know that Lisbon Falls got its name from the capital city of Portugal? Pretty cool, right? In fact, there’s also a large farm called Lisbon nearby.

But wait, there’s more! Let’s talk about Magwa Falls.

Looking down from the top of Magwa Falls is quite a journey. It’s a breathtaking sight. This stunning waterfall is nestled within the vast Magwa tea plantation, the last remaining tea estate in South Africa. You’ll find it just outside Lusikisiki. Standing at a height of 142 meters, it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. Surprisingly, it’s even 34 meters higher than the famous Victoria Falls, although not as wide. To reach Magwa Falls, you’ll need to take a half-hour drive from the town of Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. If you’re coming from Port St Johns, it will take you around 90 minutes.

One of the most impressive things about Magwa Falls is that you can hike along the edge of the waterfall. It offers a thrilling experience, especially if you don’t have a fear of heights. Just imagine the stunning photos you can capture! To make the most of your visit, it’s best to stay in Port St. Johns for a night and then drive up to the falls to witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset. Trust me, it’s worth it.

If you’re planning to visit a waterfall, I highly recommend hiring a local guide. It’s not necessary, and it won’t break the bank either. A guide can show you the way to the waterfall and ensure your safety. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Now, let me tell you about one particular waterfall called Waterfall Bluff. This place is absolutely stunning! It’s not just any ordinary waterfall; it’s a hidden gem. You won’t find it in many travel guides, so pay attention.

Waterfall Bluff: A Hidden Gem

Not many waterfalls tumble into the ocean, a phenomenon that is quite rare. As far as we know, there are fewer than 50 of these waterfalls worldwide, but it’s hard to pinpoint the exact number. In Pondoland, an area located between Port St Johns and Msikaba Nature Reserve, there are three such waterfalls situated close to each other. People commonly refer to them as Waterfall Bluff. One of these waterfalls is called Mlambomkhulu. It plunges an impressive 40 meters into the roaring ocean, offering visitors an incredible picnic spot that is among the best in all of South Africa.

To reach this magnificent waterfall, it’s best to embark on a multi-day hike, although it is possible to go on a very long day hike from Mbotyi.

Why are waterfalls so captivating? Is it their irresistible combination of strength and beauty? Whatever it is, there’s something undeniably mesmerizing about these natural wonders. If you’re interested in breathtaking waterfalls, South Africa is home to some truly impressive ones. Let me take you on a journey to discover the top seven waterfalls in this beautiful country.