Waterfalls in South AfricaSouth Africa

South Africa's falls split between the Drakensberg escarpment and the desert reaches of the Orange River. Tugela Falls, in the Drakensberg, ranks among the tallest waterfalls in the world across its multiple tiers, though its flow is seasonal and easily reduced to a trickle. Howick Falls, also in KwaZulu-Natal, is a single, reliable drop close to Pietermaritzburg. Augrabies Falls, where the Orange River funnels through a granite gorge in the semi-arid Northern Cape, ranks among the highest-volume falls on Earth when the river runs high, a sharp contrast to the region's usual aridity. Mpumalanga's Panorama Route adds Lisbon and Berlin Falls, both roadside stops along the edge of the Blyde River Canyon.

When to go

Summer rains, roughly November-March, bring the Drakensberg falls, including Tugela, to their fullest, while the Orange River at Augrabies can also swell dramatically after heavy rain further upstream in the interior. Winter, June-August, is drier and clearer for viewing but leaves several falls, Tugela especially, much reduced.

Getting around

Self-driving covers the Panorama Route and Augrabies easily on sealed roads. Tugela Falls requires a hike from the Drakensberg's Amphitheatre area, either a long day route or an overnight trip, and Howick Falls is a short walk from its town car park.

Entry requirements

US, Canadian, UK, and EU citizens currently enter visa-free for 90 days; South Africa's new ETA system has not yet been extended to these nationalities.

Entry rules checked September 2026. They change without much notice — confirm with the official government source before you travel.