Activities,  South Africa

Tugela Falls: guide to the most beautiful hike in South Africa

Climb up Tugela Falls, the 2nd tallest waterfall in the world, located in Royal Natal National Park. This hike, which for us is the most epic in South Africa, is a must if you visit the Drakensbergs. It is part of the plateau of the Amphitheater which in itself is grand.

What you need to know for the hike from Tugela Falls to the Drakensberg in South Africa

At the top of Tugela Falls, the 2nd tallest waterfall in the world located in the Royal Natal National Park of the Drakensberg range in South Africa.

Enter the Royal Natal National Park to reach the top of the fall of Tugela Falls. The hike starts at the Sentinel Peak car park, 2h / 2h30 drive from Mont aux sources and lasts between 4 and 5h for moderate difficulty. It is THE most beautiful hike in South Africa and we have never been so impressed by a cliff in our life. The lodge tried to convince us to take a guide because apparently the hike is dangerous when we do not know. Don't be fooled as we can confirm that the trail is well marked and safe. You just need to plan a K-way and water because the weather can change very quickly in the Drakensberg. If you are not convinced, take a guide! It would be silly to miss the 2nd highest waterfall in the world (947m high).

The river leading to Tugela Falls, the 2nd tallest waterfall in the world located in the Royal Natal National Park of the Drakensberg range in South Africa.

Once at the top, the gigantic plateau of the Amphitheater stretches endlessly and the view is incredible. Under your feet, the water flows into almost 1km of vacuum and you are perched at an altitude of 3121m. The effort is worth it just to see it with your own eyes ... To come back down, make a loop and take the ladders. If you are afraid of heights, do not worry: there is an almost parallel path that avoids them.

Information on other hikes in Royal Natal Park in South Africa

Explore the many hikes in Royal Natal Park in the Drakensberg in South Africa

If 4 hours of walking seems too long (think twice because it's really worth the detour), you can always do one of the many other routes offered at the entrance of the Royal Natal National Park. There is something for all levels, one of which, almost flat, brings you to the foot of the Tugela Falls waterfall. This national park is known to have the best hikes in South Africa. Do not deprive yourself of it!

Stay in a beautiful B&B at Mont aux Sources near Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg

Stay in a lovely B&B farmhouse at Mont aux Sources near Tugela Falls in the Royal Natal National Park in the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa

The closest accommodations to the Royal Natal National Park are in the Mont aux Sources Valley in South Africa. We advise you to sleep at Dalmore Farm Guest House, a very nice, inexpensive B&B with a pool to relax your legs after a day of hiking in the Drakensbergs. This is the best tip in the region but also our favorite near Tugela Falls so don't hesitate to book!

Check availability

For more options, read our article on the other accommodation in Mont aux sources that we recommend.

Our tips for a successful trip:

  • Book your flight in advance to take advantage of the best prices

Airline ticket prices are cheaper when booked 6 to 3 months in advance. To be sure of getting the best price, we recommend using a flight comparator such as Skyscanner.

  • Book your accommodation before departure to have access to the best offers

You will always find a room at the last minute, but the best located accommodations are necessarily those that are always full. That's why it's best to book your accommodations as soon as possible. We recommend going through Agoda which offers the best prices. In addition, this site allows you to be easily reimbursed in the event of cancellation.

  • Skip the line to visit the most popular attractions

By booking your excursions in advance on Civitatis, you do not queue on site to get your tickets. Less time waiting = more time enjoying your vacation! Plus, their guided tours ensure you have a knowledgeable guide who speaks your language.

  • Use a comparator to find a rental car at the lowest price

Save yourself hours of research with rentalcar.com ou discovercars.com. These comparators are the best for finding rental cars at the lowest prices.

  • Don't leave without travel insurance

For us, it is unimaginable to leave without travel insurance. We recommend the one proposed by AXIS. This is the best guaranteed way to leave with peace of mind. However, consider taking out additional specialized insurance for activities not covered (such as skiing or scuba diving).

  • Want more information about your destination?

Do not hesitate to complete the information present on this blog with a travel Guide. You can take it in your luggage and refer to it throughout your vacation.

To find out more about South Africa:

Itinéterre is a travel blog written by a team of expatriates and locals. They share their experiences so that you can enjoy the best tours in their countries. Their advice will help you plan your vacation easily as if a local is accompanying you!