There’s no better way to celebrate warmer days in the Mother City, or even the colder ones, than by visiting a cascading waterfall. Cape Town is home to an array of thriving nature parks and forests where unique natural waterfalls are prized features.
If you’re planning on an adventure, here’s 5 waterfalls to add to your must-see list.
1. Steenbras River Gorge
The popular and beginner level hiking trail of Crystal Pools, will take you on a journey along a series of serene mountain pools in the picturesque valley of the Steenbras River Gorge.
This hiking trail is closed in winter months but opens every year from November to April. The gorgeous destination officially forms part of the Steenbras Nature Reserve and a permit must be acquired from the reserve before taking to the path.
To get there drive out to Gordon’s Bay on the N2. At Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, take the turn-off to Gordon’s Bay. You will reach a T-junction when you arrive at Gordon’s Bay — turn left onto the R44 (the coastal road that leads to Pringle Bay, Betty’s Bay and finally Hermanus). After 6.6km, you will reach the Sunbird Lodge on the right-hand side of the road. This is where you will get your permit. Once you reach the reserve follow the sighs and hike safely.
Contact: 076 018 2577
Address: Kogelberg Nature Reserve Trail, Helderberg Rural, Cape Town, 7135
2. Skeleton Gorge
Hidden in the beautiful folds of Table Mountain Nature Reserve and starting at the Botanical Gardens is the breath taking Skeleton Gorge trail.
Leading up the Eastern side of Table Mountain and known for being a particularly challenging hike, but also a rewarding one featuring various free flowing water systems and interesting obstacles. The best time to visit is during the winter months.
Address: Table Mountain (Nature Reserve), Cape Town
Website: hiketablemountain.co.za
3. Cecilia Forest
On the lower slopes of Table Mountain just South of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is Cecilia Forest.
Diep River has it origins in the slopes above Cecilia Forest leaving a sizable waterfall in the large gorge there, that is a sight to see.
This is a moderate hike that is dog friendly and mostly shaded. Start your hike in the Cecilia Forest parking lot on Rhodes Drive in Constantia, the Cecilia Waterfall trail is well worn and makes for a great spot to have a weekend picnic. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the paths on the map near the parking lot at the start of the jeep track. The correct path begins to the right of this map board.
Address: Cecilia Forest Hiking Trail, Wynberg NU (2), Cape Town, 7824
4. Krom River
Just an hour out of the Mother City in Limietberg Nature Reserve, lies the lush trail along Krom River to an unforgettable waterfall.
Parking is available in the parking area near the Worcester exit of the Huguenot tunnel before walking under the flyover of the N1. The early stage of the walk follows the right bank of the Molenaars River before crossing it and meeting up with the Krom River.
This lovely spot, has a number of pools to swim in although the water is quite cold. A permit is needed to visit and can be bought at the nearby Trout Farm. The permit costs R40 for adults and R20 for children.
Address: 267 Main St, Esterville, Paarl, 7646
5. Meiringspoort Waterfall
Probably one of the most famous waterfalls in Cape Town, Meiringspoort Waterfall is a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located close to the small town of De Rus, Meiringspoort Waterfall is 60 meters high, while the pool below the waterfall is 9 meters deep.
Visitors can swim in the waters or simply picnic nearby.
Address: Swartberg Mountain Complex, Western Cape
Pictures: hiketablemountain