7 Best Waterfalls In Cape Town (And Nearby) That Are Worth The Hype
Don’t listen to TLC.
Chase those MF waterfalls, gurl.
Especially those waterfalls in Cape Town.
It’s one of the best things to do in the city, especially on those beautiful post-card-perfect days.
…But there is a toll.
You can’t waltz up to these natural wonders.
Nay, nay.
The best waterfalls in Cape Town are only accessible at the end of a hike.
So, choose your trail difficulty, strap on your hiking shoes, and get ready for an adventure.
Psst…Want more Cape Town travel tips and inspiration? Check out these other posts:
- The Ultimate Cape Town Travel Guide
- Crystal Pools Hike: Everything You Need to Know
- 20+ Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
- 50+ Things to Do in Cape Town: A Local’s Guide
- 15+ Irresistible Day Trips from Cape Town
- 12 Secluded Cabins Near Cape Town That Are Perfect for Escaping Reality
Table of Contents
Waterfalls in Cape Town Overview
| Waterfall | Distance from CPT | Trail Length | Cost | Swimming | Dog-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Krom River | 1 hour | 7km / 4hrs | R55 pp | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Cecilia Forest | 15 minutes | 4.3km / 2hrs | Free | ✗ No | ✓ Yes* |
| Crystal Pools | 1hr 10min | 4.5km | R90 pp | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Bainskloof | 1hr 20min | 5km | R55 pp | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Jonkershoek | 1 hour | 9–12km | From R70 pp | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Skeleton Gorge | 12 minutes | 6.5km | R100–R250 pp | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Rawsonville | 1 hour | 7km | Free* | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
Krom River Trail
The Krom River Trail is home to one of the tallest waterfalls near Cape Town. Tucked away in the Du Toitskloof mountains along a 7km trail, getting to the falls is part of the adventure.
There are mini river crossings, light bouldering, and chains you must conquer to reach your final destination.
But once you’re there, it’s 100% worth it.
I recommend spending at least an hour here picnicking on the shores and cliff-jumping into the water (only for the brave).
The best time to visit the Krom River waterfall is between the shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November). You’ll miss the summer crowds, and the trail is closed during the winter months (June to August).
While a permit is required for this hike (unfortunately), many people ignore it, leading to overcrowding and litter on the trail on hot days. But if December to February is your only option, arrive at Du Toitskloof just after sunrise.
You’ll have the trail (and waterfall) to yourself before everyone else arrives.
- Starting Point: Search for Kromrivier and Elandsrivier Hiking Trails Start on Google Maps
- Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour
- Trail length: 7km / 4 hours
- Cost: R55.00 per person
- Dog-friendly: No
- Swimming allowed: Yes
- Permits: Contact CapeNature on 087 087 8250 or email reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
- Good to Know: To reach the hike’s starting point, you’ll pass through the Huguenot Tunnel. Make sure you have cash or a credit card to pay the toll.
Read More: 12 Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town With Jaw-Dropping Views
Cecilia Forest Waterfall
Looking for waterfalls in Cape Town within an Uber’s distance?
Cecilia Forest Waterfall has your name on it.
The 4km trail is one of the lesser-known gems in Table Mountain National Park and one of my favourites. Located in Wynberg (only 15 minutes from the Cape Town CBD), it’s the perfect early-morning waterfall hike for all fitness levels.
Fill your thermal flask with hot water, coffee, and a packet of rusks, and stop for breakfast right at the base of the falls.
When you’re done, you can follow the circular route back to the car park or head into Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (without paying for entrance).
- Starting Point: Cecilia Forest Car Park, 119 Rhodes Dr, Wynberg
- Distance from Cape Town: 15 minutes
- Trail length: 4.3 km / 2 hours
- Cost: Free
- Dog-friendly: Yes (but you need a Level 1 My Activity Permit)
- Swimming allowed: No
Read More: 10+ Spectacular Multi-Day Hiking Trails in the Western Cape
Crystal Pools
Crystal Pools is one of the best waterfall hikes near Cape Town. Starting near the R44 in Kogelberg Nature Reserve, the trail is moderate and offers plenty of opportunities to cool off from the heat.
The first pool appears 45 minutes into the hike, but continues for another 15 minutes to reach the second pool with a waterfall.
You can stop here or continue to the third pool and second waterfall, which offers more swimming opportunities and beautiful views of the area.
Like Krom River, you will need a permit for this hike (there are only 50 people allowed on the trail daily). Bookings open from the 1st of October, and the trail is accessible from November to the end of April every year.
- Starting Point: Kogelberg Nature Reserve
- Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Trail length: 4.5km
- Cost: R90.00 pp
- Dog-friendly: No
- Swimming allowed: Yes
- Permits: Email steenbras.naturereserve@capetown.gov.za or phone 021 444 6927 to book two days before your visit.
- Good to Know: There are very aggressive baboons on this hike. If the flag is red (indicating they are in the area, it might be better to skip the hike). Also, it’s a good idea not to bring any food on the hike because of the baboon problem.
Read More: Crystal Pools Hike: Everything You Need to Know
Top Places to Stay in Cape Town
Bainskloof Waterfall Trail
Out of all the waterfalls near Cape Town, Bainskloof is my favourite.
Why?
You get a fun hike with light rock scrambling and MULITPLE waterfalls and rock pools to swim in.
The only downside?
It’s located at Tweede Tol campsite, which means it’s crowded in high season (December to February) and during the school holidays.
I came here in June (winter) and had the entire trail to myself. Unfortunately, I wasn’t brave enough to swim that day, but my friend Demi did hop in and loved it.
- Starting Point: Tweede Tol Campsite
- Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Trail length: 5km
- Cost: R55.00 per person or free if you’re camping
- Swimming allowed: Yes
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Good to Know: You need to pay your entrance fee in cash. There is no signal at the gate or ATMs around.
Read More: 15+ Wonderous Waterfalls in South Africa That Will Make Your Jaw Drop
Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
For a challenging waterfall hike near Cape Town, visit Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, a World Heritage Site.
Only a short 15-minute drive from Stellenbosch, the reserve is famous for its spectacular hiking trails.
The best part?
There is more than one waterfall trail!
Swartboskloof Trail: The Swartboskloof Trail is a moderately challenging 11.3 km loop that’ll take you to the top of Kurktrekkernek before winding down past a waterfall.
Panorama Trail via Second Waterfall Trail: A challenging 12.4-km loop with steep ascents for the first part of the hike. Start your hike early so you’re back when the gates close at 6 p.m.
Jonkershoek Waterfalls Day Hiking Trail: An exposed, moderately challenging 9.8km trail. Pack your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Kurktrekker Waterfall Viewpoint: A 9.0 km there-and-back trail with two waterfalls to explore.
- Starting Point: Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
- Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour
- Trail length: Depends on the hiking route.
- Cost: From R70.00 per day
- Dog-friendly: No
- Swimming allowed: Yes
- Permits: Hiking permits can be pre-purchased via the MTO Trails website, via the myMTO App, or at the MTO gate on the day.
- Good to Know: You’ll need to add an extra 5km to your hike from the MTO gate to the open hiking trails.
Read More: 10 Delicious Things to Do in Stellenbosch for Hungry Foodies
Skeleton Gorge
Skeleton Gorge is a popular day hike in Cape Town.
Located above Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, it’s an incredible trail that leads you through lush indigenous forests, past a spectacular waterfall, and ends at Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain.
It is a moderately challenging hike with a steep ascent, scrambling sections, and stone steps.
This hike can be quite slippery. If it’s been raining a lot in Cape Town, it’s best to leave this trail for another day.
If you want to make the hike easier or switch up the route, descend via Nursery Ravine.
- Starting Point: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Distance from Cape Town: 12 minutes
- Trail length: 6.5km
- Cost: R100.00 for South Africans and R220.00 for internationals
- Dog-friendly: No
- Swimming allowed: No
- Good to Know: You’ll need to pay the entrance fee for Kirstenbosch to access the start of the trail.
Read More: Lion’s Head Hike in Cape Town: Full Hiking Guide
Rawsonville
Psst…Looking for secret waterfalls in Cape Town?
It doesn’t get better than this gem in Rawsonville.
Only 1 hour from the Mother City, it’s hidden on a farm and accessible only via Solace Cabins.
Spend a night at the cabin, and go on an adventure in search of the falls. There isn’t a marked hiking path, but if you continue following the river, you’ll eventually come to the base and have it all to yourself.
- Starting Point: Solace Cabins, Rawsonville
- Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour
- Trail length: 7km
- Cost: Free
- Dog-friendly: No
- Swimming allowed: Yes
- Good to Know: You need to book a night at Solace to gain access to the farm and the waterfall.
Read More: 12 Secluded Cabins Near Cape Town That Are Perfect for Escaping Reality
Cape Town Waterfalls: FAQ
A good pair of hiking shoes with grip, sunglasses, a hat, and pack a swimsuit (if swimming is allowed.
If you want to see the waterfalls gushing, visit in the winter season (June to August) after the heavy rains. Otherwise, spring and autumn are great options for avoiding the summer crowds.
It depends on which waterfall in Cape Town you’re visiting. Always check if it’s allowed, and only cliff jump if it’s safe to do so.
You can bring your dog for some of the waterfall hikes in Cape Town. Check with the reserve beforehand and make sure you have your permit.
What are your favourite waterfalls in Cape Town? Any I need to add to my bucket list? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below.
If ya like it, then you better put a pin on it!
Hi Lauren,
How fortunate to stumbled across your site today!
Flashbacks to many places I visited while living and working in SA and Zambia 1972-1978. Lived in Cape Town, JHB and Kitwe. Visited Lesotho, Okavango, Swaziland, Vic Falls, Zim, and LM.
All our many old country friends and families have scattered across the world.
Now live near Portland, Oregon, USA.
Dave