South Africa Waterfalls & Safaris

South Africa waterfall safaris start with the water. Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg Amphitheatre is often ranked the second-highest waterfall in the world. Howick Falls is in the Midlands on the way, and Augrabies Falls roars through the Northern Cape desert. Pair them with Kruger, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi or the Kgalagadi.

When to visit South Africa

Best time: Year-round; November–March for the falls. Waterfalls and wildlife peak at different times, so plan around both; see the seasonal calendar.

National parks to pair with the falls

• Kruger National Park
• Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
• uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park
• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Planning a trip to South Africa

For waterfalls, the northern Drakensberg (Tugela Falls), the Midlands (Howick Falls) and Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape are the highlights. Combine the Drakensberg with Zululand's game reserves and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park over eight to ten days, or add Kruger and the Panorama Route's waterfalls in Mpumalanga.

Practical tips

The currency is the South African rand, and cards are accepted almost everywhere. Self-drive is easy on good roads; drive on the left. Most of the Drakensberg and the Cape are malaria-free, while Kruger and northern Zululand are low-risk malaria areas. Visa, health and entry rules change, so check official advice for your nationality before you book.

Getting to South Africa

Fly into Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT) or Durban (DUR). Many nationalities receive a free visitor visa on arrival. Most trips start from Durban for the Drakensberg; Upington for Augrabies. Visa rules change, so check them for your passport before travel. Read Plan your trip for visas, health and packing, and the waterfall safari FAQs for quick answers.