Waterfall Hikes Near Johannesburg

When you're looking for waterfall hikes in and around Johannesburg, you'll find several excellent options that can serve as idyllic destinations. These hikes typically include pools or waterfalls, either seasonal or permanent, and only some permit swimming. There are a few key waterfall spots near Johannesburg and Pretoria, both close to the city and in the Magaliesberg mountains, that suit a family or group of friends.

Walter Sisulu and the No-Swim Option

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is well known for Witpoortjie Falls, a waterfall on the Crocodile River that is the poster child for Johannesburg waterfall hikes. Witpoortjie Falls is located in Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, on the border of Johannesburg (Roodepoort) and Mogale City.

However, a few things are crucial to know before visiting. The first is that swimming is not permitted at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, including the waterfall itself.

The garden is open every day, but check the current hours and entry fee before you go.

Magaliesberg Hikes with Confirmed Water Access

North-west of Johannesburg, the Magaliesberg has several kloofs within about two hours' drive. These are hikes to waterfalls, pools, and kloofs — and in a handful of cases, even those beloved swimming holes — that you’re looking for. For families and friends heading into the nature reserves here, it's crucial to know that many of these kloofs are on Mountain Club of South Africa (MCSA) properties, where non-members need a permit.

Check the MCSA Magaliesberg Section's permit rules well before your visit.

A Longer Reserve Option with Natural Pools

There are a few additional options not far from Johannesburg that include natural pools in the nature reserve itself. Kgaswane Mountain Reserve’s Summit Route is about 25 km long over two days, and it passes natural pools where swimming is permitted.