The 10 best Waterfalls in Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga is a natural paradise, boasting more waterfalls than any other province in South Africa. Each enchanting waterfall is uniquely decorated with dramatic cliffs amidst lush green forests. While many tourists focus on attractions like Kruger Park and the River Canyon, they often overlook the enchanting Mpumalanga waterfalls. No place is more romantic than a weekend getaway in Mpumalanga with its beautiful mountain passes, Picturesque Waterfalls, rock pools, densely forested ravines, and rock pools where you can swim. The Mpumalanga Waterfall Route spans 50 km along the R532 and offers unforgettable experiences and adventures for all. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about each enchanting waterfall in Mpumalanga.
Mpumalanga Waterfalls
The small town of Sabie is renowned for being the closest to three of the most scenic waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the tranquil Lone Creek Falls, and the enchanting Bridal Veil Falls, all nestled along the picturesque Sabie Waterfall Route. To embark on this waterfall adventure from Sabie town, head north and follow the scenic Old Lydenburg Road, tracing the meandering path alongside the Sabie River.
Look for the well-placed signposts that will guide you to these natural wonders. If you’re pressed for time, I recommend visiting these three remarkable waterfalls. Afterwards, make your way to the charming forestry town of Graskop, where even more captivating waterfalls await your exploration. The waterfalls in Mpumalanga are located on forestry grounds. The Waterfall Route offer secure parking and toilet facilities. Entry fees range from R30 per person.
1. Horseshoe Falls
The attractive Horseshoe Falls, with water cascading down on either side of a vast cliff, falls like a horseshoe when reaching the water below. Located 10 km outside Sabie, the falls are near the car park.
- Horseshoe entrance fee: free
- How to get to the Horseshoe Falls? From Sabie town, head north on Main Road, turn left onto Old Lydenburg Road and follow the signposts.
2. Bridal Veil Falls
Only 6 km outside Sabie, the Bridal Veil Waterfall derives its name from the delicate sheer of water that reminds one of the translucent veils of a bride. The Mpumalanga waterfalls path accompanies an uphill climb but is worth the effort.
3. Lone Creek Falls
The long, narrow drop of water makes Lone Creek Falls one of the most beautiful. You don’t have to walk far this time as it’s about 200 m from the parking bay, where a stunning viewpoint awaits you.
4. Mac Mac Waterfalls
Further North, you will get to the twin Mac Mac Falls, which derives its name from Scottish miners who sought their fortune during the Gold rush in 1870. Regarded as the most enchanting Waterfall at the Mac Mac River, the twin Mac Mac waterfalls plunge 70 m into the ravine below.
Near the falls, look for the Secretary Bird Trail to observe bird species such as the Cuckoo and Secretary bird. After visiting the waterfalls, a great idea is to picnic at the nearby pool. the Mac Mac Pools hike is a 3 km circular route. I recommend you Pack a Picnic basket with refreshments
5. Berlin Falls
The mesmerizing Berlin Falls stands tall from where it cascades down 80m from a sheer cliff. As the highest Waterfall in Mpumalanga, it forms part of the Blyde River Canyon. Its shape is like that of a giant candle, with a narrow channel at the top, like the wick of a candle, and water fanning out as it drops into the pool below. The Berlin Waterfalls were named during the Gold Rush many years ago when miners named them after their home countries or towns.
Visitors to Berlin Falls can explore the area on foot, picnic around the Waterfall, and enjoy cooling off in the water pools at the Waterfall’s base. Furthermore, the bird’s haven is home to the endemic Blyde River Protea. The Berlin Waterfalls were named by European miners who named the falls after their hometown. Don’t forget to bring a picnic basket, as the Berlin Mpumalanga Waterfall is ideal for picnicking with ample shade.
6. Lisbon Falls
The dramatic Lisbon Waterfalls is one of the most spectacular in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Water cascades over the craggy canyon walls before plunging 94 meters (308 ft) in two distinct streams. Named by Portuguese miners in 1800, the Lisbon Waterfalls is one of the top attractions in Mpumalanga. It is the tallest Waterfall in Mpumalanga, falling 94 m into the gorge below. The Lisbon Waterfalls are only 3 km south of the Verlin Waterfalls on the Lisbon River near Graskop in Mpumalanga.
7. Kadishi Tufa Waterfall
My favourite of all Waterfalls in Mpumalanga is the Kadisi Waterfall. Besides being one of the few living Tufa Waterfalls in the World, the Kadishi Tufa waterfall in Mpumalanga is also the second-highest.
With the Majestic Blyde River Canyon being one of the biggest attractions in Graskop, very few people know about the rare Tufa waterfall. You can experience the unique Tufa South Africa waterfall by visiting the Forever Blyderiver Canyon Resort. The Kadishi Tufa Waterfall is on the Kadisi Trail.
Moreover, walking the beautiful Kadishi trail will allow you to encounter wildlife and several smaller waterfalls in the forest. Here, surrounded by nature, one can wander around peacefully.
What is a Tufa Waterfall?
After millions of years, a Tufa waterfall forms when water runs over dolomite rock. The stone absorbs calcium and deposits rock formations more rapidly. Finally, it erodes the surrounding rock. With its striking resemblance, the rock face of the waterfall bears, weeping, resembles drops of water in tears.
8. Maria Shires Falls
The small, lesser-known Maria Shires Falls is between Graskop and Sabie and is one of the Mpumalanga Waterfalls. One can enjoy a picnic and go for a short hike. It is a more private spot and ideal for a romantic picnic. Maria Shires Waterfall was named by Sir Joseph Brooke Shires, whose mother was Maria. Joseph Shires pioneered forestry in the Sabie region in the 1800s.
His extended family was also instrumental in local mining and timber, which remain a central part of this area’s heritage. When his mother died, he placed her grave near the Waterfall. While on your way, visit the grave on the scenic Mpumalanga Panorama Route.
9. Waterfall at Pinnacle Rock
Although the main attraction at the Pinnacle is the 30m quartzite pinnacle or needle, do not leave until you’ve visited the most spectacular waterfall at Pinnacle Rock, close by. This is where water from the Ngwaritsane River grumbles over the rocks before tumbling down the indigenous forest with its tree ferns and indigenous plants.
10. Forest Falls
As its name derives, the Adventurous Forest waterfall is nestled profoundly in the forest and is the only Mpumalanga waterfall that is wider than high. Expect an adventurous hike through fragrant pine forests along a stream down to the Graskop waterfall. The Forest Falls hike is pet-friendly and not difficult. Some parts can be slippery when wet, so wear sturdy shoes.
- A 4.3 km circular route (out-and-back).
- 18 km from Sabie en route to Graskop.
- Sturdy shoes, hat, costume, and sunscreen.
- Water and refreshments.
- Poo bags for your furry friend.
Kadishi Tufa Waterfall
Mpumalanga Hiking Trails
Besides Hiking the Mpumalanga waterfalls, the Mpumalanga region offers some of the best hiking trails in the Country. For those of you who like hiking and are up for a challenge, this is your chance. Mpumalanga Waterfalls offers challenging hiking and is home to the Fanie Botha Hiking Trail.
the Mpumalanga Waterfalls hikes
- Short Kadishi-Tufa Trail: approx. 1 hour
- Guinea Fowl Trail: approx. 3 hours
- The Lourie Trail: approx. 3 hours
- Leopard Trail: approx. 3 hours
- Maria Shires Short 3 km hike
- The Mac Mac Pools 3 km hike
- Forest Falls Nature Walk 4 km
- Fanie Botha Hiking Trail
Frequently Asked Questions
- How to get to the Sabie Waterfall Route? Drive north on the R532 from Sabie.
- What to Pack for a Day-hike: Pack a daypack with sufficient water, snacks, and trail food.
- Other necessities: Hat, Sunscreen, Costume, lip balm, hiking towel-optional, Sturdy shoes.
- Where to Stay: B&Bs, Guesthouses, hotels, self-catering accommodations, Campsites, and Caravan Parks.
- Sabie tourism: email: [email protected]
With trillions of other things to do in Mpumalanga, check out the Top Attractions in Mpumalanga. While exploring the waterfalls, here are the Best Eateries in Mpumalanga.
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With trillions of other things to do in Mpumalanga, don’t miss the following:
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Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for commenting.
Stunning area of our country, unique and so different to other scenic area in SA