Hikes to Waterfalls and Pools
With the onset of Autumn, hiking becomes a favourite pastime in the Central Drakensberg. Indeed travelers are drawn to the weather, crisp champagne air, and blue skies. Also add to that the autumn colours that contrast the landscape in hues of orange with grasses starting to turn brown.
We have compiled a list of popular hikes that lead you to stunning waterfalls and refreshing pools. Most are suitable for the whole family and the beginner hiker. However, for adventure enthusiasts who see the thrill and intriguing beauty of the mountains, there are longer and advanced hikes. For a full list of Drakensberg Hikes, please visit Drakensberg Hikes.
Our list of recommended hikes to waterfalls and pools:
Blue Grotto
This is a moderate walk that starts at the Drakensberg Sun. It takes you through an indigenous forest that leads to a magnificent grotto with a waterfall and pool.
Total hike (km’s) 6.6 | Total Duration 3.5 hours
Sterkspruit Falls
An easy walk starting from the Monks Cowl Ezemvelo Entrance leads you to the Sterkspruit Falls. The path arrives at a viewing platform as the top of the falls, offering an impressive view of the cascading waterfall.
Total hike (km’s) 2.8 | Total Duration 1.5 hours
Sterkspruit Falls and Nandi Falls
The two combined make for a scenic meandering hike that takes you on a circular trip back to the Monks Cowl entrance.
Total hike (km’s) 8 | Total Duration 4 hours
The Sphinx
Another popular hike starts from the Monks Cowl Ezemvelo Entrance. A moderate hike to the Sphinx leads you past Crystal Falls, a small waterfall offering a refreshing stop before the final stretch to the Sphinx. The views from the top are stunning and well worth the walk.
Total hike (km’s) 4.8 | Total Duration 2.5 hours
Cleo’s Pool
An easy walk that starts from the Drakensberg Sun, taking you through grasslands and ending at Cleo’s Pool, a natural swimming pool in the river.
Total hike (km’s) 7.2 | Total Duration 3 hours
Tugela Falls
Take a scenic drive to Royal Natal National Park in the Northern Drakensberg. Here you will find the world’s 2nd tallest waterfall, The Tugela Falls. This incredible day hike, also known as Tugela Gorge Hike is a firm favourite. It is the most popular in the area and with such impressive beauty, it is not hard to understand why.
Total hike (km’s) 15 | Total Duration 6 hours
There is no better reason to back your rucksack and head to the mountains. Choose from a variety of scenic hikes that lead through indigenous forests to waterfalls and pools. Explore the most beautiful scenery imaginable – a world or discovery awaits!
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