Howick Falls
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Umgeni River Walk

4.4
·233 reviews·Howick, South Africa

Discover scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife at Umgeni River Walk. A perfect day trip for nature lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning hikes

Cooler temperatures & wildlife activity

CrowdLow
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Howick Falls

Umgeni River Walk

Best Time

Morning hikes

Cooler temperatures & wildlife activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife at Umgeni River Walk. A perfect day trip for nature lovers.

4.4
(233 reviews)

"Great scenery and viewpoints along the trail, way. We stopped at 3 waterfalls, lots of options to fill our water bottles."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails are well-maintained but good walking shoes are essential for enjoying the hikes.

💧 Bring Water Bottles

Several cascades offer opportunities to refill your water bottles along the way.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.4 · 233 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascading Waterfalls

Cascading Waterfalls

Various points along the trails

Discover multiple picturesque waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing stop or refilling water bottles.

Reddit
Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings

Throughout the reserve

Keep an eye out for zebras, wildebeest, and antelope roaming freely in this well-maintained reserve.

Reddit
Scenic Hiking Trails

Scenic Hiking Trails

Multiple marked routes

Enjoy well-marked trails offering beautiful scenery, suitable for various fitness levels.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Trail Fees & Access

A modest R35 entrance fee grants access to the Umgeni River Walk. Note that dogs are not permitted on the trails, so plan accordingly for your furry friends. Reddit

Wildlife & Scenery

Expect to encounter wildlife like zebras, wildebeest, and antelope, adding an exciting element to your hike. The trails boast beautiful views and several cascades. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning hikes
Why
Cooler temperatures & wildlife activity
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Pleasant for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Hidden gems in the Durban region for visitors?

Our family of 4 (kids are 19 & 17) is coming to SA later this month for a 4 week holiday. Staying in Hillcrest (about halfway between Durban and Pietrmaritzburg). We're coming from NZ; I grew up in SA. I’m interested to know what hidden gems are around the region that we…

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails are well-maintained but good walking shoes are essential for enjoying the hikes. Reddit

💧 Bring Water Bottles

Several cascades offer opportunities to refill your water bottles along the way. Reddit

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Remember that pets are not permitted within the reserve. Reddit

🦓 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for zebras and other animals; sightings are a common bonus! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails are well-maintained but good walking shoes are essential for enjoying the hikes. Reddit

💧 Bring Water Bottles

Several cascades offer opportunities to refill your water bottles along the way. Reddit

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Remember that pets are not permitted within the reserve. Reddit

🦓 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for zebras and other animals; sightings are a common bonus! Reddit

🧺 Picnic Spots Available

Enjoy a meal amidst nature at the designated picnic areas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(233 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Umgeni River Walk for its beautiful scenery, including numerous waterfalls, and the exciting opportunity to see wildlife like zebras and antelope. The well-maintained trails and friendly staff contribute to a positive experience, making it a worthwhile visit for its modest entrance fee. Some visitors noted the absence of dog-friendly access.

"First time visit for a day hike, the staff was friendly and we enjoyed the walk. It is R35 entrance fee, but sadly no dogs allowed. Will definitely return to try the other trails."

Casey Singh

"Incredible landscape with amazing birdlife. Some of the best rock and routes for rock climbing . Would of got a 5 star but unfortunately like allot of places in the country the maintance has fallen behind and the dirt road is almost impossible. High rise cars only"

Craig Macdonald

"Visited for a day hike, and it was a delight. Great scenery and viewpoints along the trail, way. We stopped at 3 waterfalls, lots of options to fill our water bottles. It also has a nice spot to camp. The zebra sightings were a bonus."

Ms Noxolo

What People Like

Beautiful scenery and waterfalls
Wildlife sightings (zebras, antelope)
Well-maintained trails

What People Dislike

No dogs allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Umgeni River Walk is located a drive from Durban. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most convenient way to reach the reserve. Consider using a GPS or navigation app for directions. Reddit

Yes, the reserve is accessible by car, and there are usually parking facilities available for visitors. Reddit

The best route will depend on your starting point, but generally, using a reliable GPS or mapping service will guide you efficiently. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is R35 per person, which is considered very reasonable for the experience. Reddit

Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the R35 fee is generally seen as good value. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance upon arrival. It's advisable to check their official channels for any updates on booking procedures. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours for hiking. It's best to confirm current operating times before your visit. Reddit

No, unfortunately, dogs are not permitted within the Umgeni River Walk reserve. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Umgeni River Walk offers several well-marked trails of varying lengths and difficulties, including routes like the 'shelter hike'. Reddit

Yes, visitors often report seeing animals such as zebras, wildebeest, and antelope, which adds to the experience. Reddit

Absolutely! The reserve features several beautiful cascades and waterfalls along its trails. Reddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families, with trails suitable for different ages and the chance to see wildlife. Reddit

Yes, there are designated picnic spots within the reserve, making it a perfect place for a day out. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfalls and scenic viewpoints along the trails offer excellent opportunities for photography. Wildlife sightings also provide great photo moments. Reddit

While wildlife is present, sightings can be unpredictable. Patience and a good zoom lens can help capture great shots. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Reddit

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