Last Updated on September 26, 2023 by Lauren Melnick
When it comes to visiting Mpumalanga in South Africa, let’s be honest.
We’re all jumping into our cars to chase waterfalls and go full stalker mode along the Panorama Route.
Am I right, or am I right?
Mpumalanga is a province for adventurers who want to marvel at Mother Nature doing what she does best – being a certifiable, ridiculously good-looking bada**.
To help, I’ve rounded up the best Mpumalanga waterfalls that deserve a spot on your Panorama Route itinerary (including entrances to keep your travel budget in check.)
Enjoy!
Psst…Want more South Africa travel inspiration? Check out these other posts:
- The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
- 10+ Spectacular Road Trips in South Africa You Can’t Miss!
- Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know
- The Best Game Reserves in KZN for an Unforgettable Safari Experience
- Stay In A Secluded & Charming Forest Cabin In Dullstroom
Table of Contents
The Best Mpumalanga Waterfalls
Lisbon Falls
Let’s start with the creme-de-la-creme of Mpumalanga waterfalls – Lisbon Falls.
Named after Portugal’s capital city, it’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls in South Africa, and you should under no circumstances leave it off your Mpumalanga itinerary.
Why?
- It’s mind-bogglingly beautiful.
- Lisbon Falls is the highest waterfall in Mpumalanga, plunging 92 meters (302 feet) into the valley below.
The only downside?
You can no longer hike down to the base of the falls.
Fortunately, there are plenty of panoramic viewpoints from the top.
- Google Maps Location: Graskop
- Lisbon Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R15.00 per person
Read More: 15+ Wonderous Waterfalls in South Africa That Will Make Your Jaw Drop
Lone Creek Falls
Ever wish upon the brightest star at night to wake up inside Fern Gully?
Well, visit Lone Creek Falls and make your wish a reality.
Tucked away in Mpumalanga’s dense valleys, the waterfall (and national monument) cascades down from a height of 68 meters into an enchanting emerald-green forest.
As it’s only a quick walk from the parking lot, Lone Creek Falls does fill up fast (especially during peak season). If you want this natural wonder all to yourself, come here first thing in the morning and pack some food.
Go up the side of the falls for an incredible view over the falls, grab one of the seating areas, and enjoy breakfast with a view.
P.S. There is a fence around the falls, and you can no longer get as close as I did in this photo.
- Google Maps Location: Sabie
- Lone Creek Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R30.00 per person
Read More: 6+ Waterfalls In Cape Town (And Nearby) That Are Worth The Hype
Berlin Falls
Visit Berlin Falls in Mpumalanga, and if you listen closely enough, you’ll hear the sound of a banging techno bassline in the distance.
This, my friends, is the birthsite of modern techno as we know it before the Germans took it back home and turned it into one of the world’s most beloved music genres.
Okay, that’s not true, but Berlin Falls did get its name from German miners who came to the area during the gold rush and named different sites after their hometowns.
Park your car, follow the path, and you’ll emerge at a viewing platform overlooking the 45-meter Berlin Falls, dropping into a crystal-clear sapphire pool.
- Google Maps Location: Graskop
- Berlin Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R15.00 per person
Read More: Hiking Tugela Falls: Africa’s Highest Waterfall
Mac Mac Falls
I’ll admit it.
Mac Mac Falls is an impressive Mpumalanga waterfall featuring not one but two cascades falling 65 meters into the gorge below.
It’s just not my favourite.
The main viewpoint is quite far from the falls, and often quite a few drunk people with empty liquor bottles lying around. It kind of ruins the ambience, and you’ll have to stick your phone through the fence to get a decent photo.
My opinion? Give it a skip and make room for one of the less popular waterfalls in your itinerary.
- Google Maps Location: Sabie
- Mac Mac Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R15.00 per person
Bridal Veil Falls
Okay, let’s jump into some of the more adventurous Mpumalanga waterfalls.
Bridal Veil Falls does require you to pay penance to get there with a challenging 750-meter walk through an indigenous forest.
It is a steep and wet trail. Make sure you’re wearing decent hiking shoes.
Once you’ve arrived, cool off underneath the falls (it boasts a 70-meter drop) and stop for a picnic before returning to your car.
- Google Maps Location: Sabie
- Bridal Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R15.00 per person
Horseshoe Falls
Calling all landscape photographers!
Horseshoe Falls is a stunning spot for capturing long-exposure photos. With the water cascading down over multiple rocks, you can walk away with some creative compositions.
Then there is the forest.
It’s dense, gorgeous, and perfect for birdwatching.
P.S. If you’re visiting the Panorama Route in the summer months, it is possible to get underneath the falls to cool off.
- Google Maps Location: Sabie
- Horseshoe Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R15.00
Forest Falls
Forest Falls is Mpumalanga’s hidden gem.
Seriously.
Some travellers have tried to find it and turned around.
So, if you’re in the mood for some adventure and you’re confident in your internal GPS, add Forest Falls to your Mpumalanga waterfalls itinerary.
Located between Graskop and Sabie, you’ll meander through a beautiful 7km circular forest trail before finding yourself at the base of the falls.
Fun Fact: Forest Falls is the only Mpumalanga waterfall that’s wider than it’s high.
- Google Maps Location: Graskop
- Forest Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R20.00 per person
Maria Shires Falls
Maria Shires Falls is a small waterfall along the Panorama Route and packs a historical punch.
Its name comes from Joseph Brooke Shired Jr. He played a massive role in the forestry industry of the Sabie region, and when his mother died, he placed her grave by the falls.
As it’s not on the typical Mpumalanga waterfall route, it’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds.
Just keep an eye out for the entrance signpost. It’s not always easy to spot. Once you arrive, the waterfall is opposite the Forest Falls Picnic Area and a short, easy walk through the forest.
- Maria Shires Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R20.00 per person.
- Google Maps Location: Graskop
Emgwenya Waterfall
Do you love boulders?
Then, you’ll fall head over heels for Emgwenya Waterfall (formerly Elands River Waterfall).
It’s one of the top rock-climbing destinations in South Africa and one of the highest waterfalls in Mpumalanga.
With a plummet of 70 meters, it gives Lisbon Falls a run for its money.
If you want to tackle one of the climbing routes here, time your visit between April and October. You’ll have the best conditions temperature-wise, but climbing is possible all year round.
- Elands River Falls Entrance Fee for 2023: R30.00 per person.
- Google Maps Location: Waterval Boven
Where to Stay in Sabie or Graskop
After countless trips to Mpumalanga to explore the Panorama Route, these are my top accommodation recommendations for every budget.
Wild Forest Inn: For something simple, affordable and secluded. Wild Inn is only 3 km from Graskop and the perfect launching point for exploring the area’s waterfalls.
Rustique: For unique decor and within walking distance of Graskop’s shops and restaurants. Each room has its own unique theme, curated in a rustic style.
Lush: For the location, vibes, and excellent price point. Lush is one of the top-budget-friendly hotels in Graskops, but it looks and feels like a boutique hotel.
A Forever Resort: For private hiking trails and easy access to Blyde River Canyon. Located 50 km from Graskop, you’ll have a longer drive, but it’s worth it if you want to stay close to the canyon.
FAQ
- What is the highest waterfall in Mpumalanga? The highest waterfall in Mpumalanga is Lisbon Falls, tumbling into the valley below with a 92-meter drop.
- When is the best time to visit the Panorama Route? The best time to visit the Panorama Route is during the winter months (June to August). The weather is dry, and you’ll have clear views at the lookout points, but if you want to swim in the waterfalls, plan your trip for summer (December to February).
- Can you swim at Lisbon Falls? No, it’s no longer possible to swim at Lisbon Falls. The area is fenced off, and travellers are not allowed down to the base of the falls.
- What does Mpumalanga mean? Mpumalanga means “Place of the Rising Sun” in the local Nguni languages.
Which of these Mpumalanga waterfalls are you visiting first? Got any questions for me? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below!
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