Krantzkloof Nature Reserve
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Krantzkloof Nature Reserve

4.6
·2k reviews·Kloof, South Africa

Explore Krantzkloof Nature Reserve's stunning gorges, chase majestic waterfalls, and hike scenic trails near Durban.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Krantzkloof Nature Reserve

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Krantzkloof Nature Reserve's stunning gorges, chase majestic waterfalls, and hike scenic trails near Durban.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A truly beautiful trail that I would highly recommend any day."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot.

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Trails can be steep and rocky. Good hiking shoes are essential for safety and comfort.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kloof Falls

Kloof Falls

Various trails lead to different viewpoints

Witness the majestic cascade of water down granite slabs into a misty, mossy pool. Pure magic!

Instagram
Scenic Gorge Views

Scenic Gorge Views

Throughout the reserve

Breathtaking panoramic views of two deep gorges, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Instagram
Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings

Along the trails

Keep an eye out for zebras and other local wildlife, adding an exciting element to your hike.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up fast. Gates close for entry at 1 PM, but you can stay until 6 PM. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Reddit

Trail Preparedness

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve offers trails for various fitness levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes with steep inclines and rocky terrain. Wear sturdy shoes and be mindful of slippery conditions after rain. InstagramReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Enjoy the trails before they get busy
Crowd
Medium
When
After rain (with caution)
Why
Waterfalls are at their most dramatic
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Yet another kak day in Cape Town 🙄 Kloof Corner is basically 2km of stair-stepping with the best views in the house 🫶🏽 Pack a sundowner, head up the mountain and enjoy the views of the whole of Camps Bay, Clifton, Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. I mean… COMAAAAAAAN!? 🌅 P.S. The sun is setting around 6:15 these days so grab a mate and enjoy the view, the perfect post-work walk. I love this city 🏙️🌄...
@jocasta_durr
7.5K likes • 63.4K views

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot. Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Trails can be steep and rocky. Good hiking shoes are essential for safety and comfort. InstagramReddit

How's that uphill on the way back😂?? if your unfit your gonna cry on this one. Molweni Trail at Krantzkloof Nature Reserve📍 . #krantzkloofnaturereserve #chasingwaterfalls #outdooradventures #hikingadventures
outdooradventureandphotography
2.1K likes • 89.2K views
Wandering through hidden trails and chasing waterfalls at Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, tucked between Kloof and Waterfall, just outside Durban🥾🌳🌿 The current entrance fee is R70 per adult (12 years and older) and R35 per child (under 12 years). The waterfall - cascading down granite slabs into a misty, mossy pool - was pure magic. The sound of water hitting rock, the spray halo in the light, and...
durbansights
210 likes • 3.4K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. There are limited facilities on the trails. Reddit

🗺️ Use the Trail Map

Scan the QR code at the entrance for a map. Trails are color-coded for easy navigation. Reddit

I've had these @vivobarefootza Tracker Sandals for the last little while, but today was my first chance to test them out on some gnarly terrain. They performed exceedingly well at on a 10k at Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, which is about as tough as the trails get anywhere near to Durban. VERY steep rocky descent and lots of tight, narrow, and technical forest single track. The Tracker Sandal is a ...
tarahumarhain
69 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot. Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Trails can be steep and rocky. Good hiking shoes are essential for safety and comfort. InstagramReddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. There are limited facilities on the trails. Reddit

🗺️ Use the Trail Map

Scan the QR code at the entrance for a map. Trails are color-coded for easy navigation. Reddit

🥾 Choose Your Trail Wisely

Select a trail that matches your fitness level. The purple trail is easier, while blue and yellow are more challenging. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera! The scenery is stunning, especially from the gorge viewpoints. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Krantzkloof Nature Reserve for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic gorge views and impressive waterfalls. The challenging hiking trails offer a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure. However, some find the trails strenuous, and the condition of the bathrooms has been noted as a drawback. InstagramReddit+1

"We arrived at the reserve around 12:30, which left us with just enough time to explore the 6km trail, as it was too late to take on the more demanding 10km route. Despite its shorter distance, the 6km trail offered a truly rewarding workout, surrounded by breathtaking scenery at every turn. The ascent on the return leg proved to be quite a challenge even for seasoned hikers, making it all the more fulfilling. A truly beautiful trail that I would highly recommend any day."

Miyelani Mabasa

"A wonderful experience. I was solo, so the guide advised I do the 3km trail, Mphuti. Such a wonderful walk. The trail does get a bit challenging with quite a few inclines however gives the best views 👌🏾 Relatively safe though shortest route is advisable. Wonderful overpasses with shades just in the right places. A lot of rock formations, so do tread carefully. A wonderful waterfall, you get different magical views. My favourite was getting to the bottom. Every trail has a waterfall and I can imagine each get better. It was quiet for a weekday, it does get busier over the weekend. Just also take precaution coming out of the parking the road is exceptionally busy. Paid hike @ R60, card only!"

Babitseng Makoloi

"It's a lovely view. But you need to know your own ability. The blue and yellow walk is hard and hectic if you not use to walking adifficult terrain. The purple is easier. We did blue. So photose from blue ."

Nadiya Carrim

What People Like

Breathtaking gorge views
Majestic waterfalls
Challenging hikes

What People Dislike

Bathroom cleanliness
Steep trail ascents

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve is located between Kloof and Waterfall, about a 20-minute drive from Durban. You can reach it by car via the N3 highway. Instagram+1

Public transport options are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easy access to the reserve. Instagram

Be cautious when exiting the parking area, as the road can be exceptionally busy, especially after visitors leave. Reddit

Yes, using GPS or a navigation app is recommended. Search for 'Krantzkloof Nature Reserve' for accurate directions. Instagram

Yes, there are B&Bs overlooking the reserve, offering stunning views. One such place is www.eaglesviewkloof.co.za. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The current entrance fee is R70 per adult (12 years and older) and R35 per child (under 12 years). Payment is by card only. InstagramReddit

The gates for entry close at 1:00 PM, but if you are already inside, you can stay until 6:00 PM. Reddit

Advance booking is not typically required, but it's advisable to check their website or contact them for any specific event or holiday information. Reddit

Discounts may be available for children and potentially for groups. It's best to inquire directly with the reserve. Instagram

No, payment for the entrance fee is by card only. Make sure to have a card ready. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Popular trails include the Red (Nkutu Falls, 1.25 hrs), Yellow (Molweni Trail), Blue, and Purple trails. The purple trail is easier, while blue and yellow are more challenging. InstagramReddit+1

Trails vary in length, from shorter 3km routes like Mphuti to longer 6km and 10km options. Allow ample time to explore. InstagramReddit

The reserve offers trails for all levels. The purple trail is recommended for beginners, while others are more strenuous. Reddit

You might spot zebras, various bird species, and other local fauna. Keep your eyes peeled! Reddit

Yes, braai facilities are available. It's recommended to bring your own chairs as benches can be uncomfortable after a while. Reddit

Reviews suggest that while water and toilet paper are provided, the bathrooms may not always be well-maintained or clean. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints overlooking the gorges offer incredible panoramic shots. The waterfalls, especially Kloof Falls, are also highly photogenic. InstagramReddit+1

Be mindful of your surroundings and the terrain, especially on rocky or slippery sections. Stick to designated paths for safety. InstagramReddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful dramatic effects for landscape and wildlife photography. TikTok

Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the reserve management beforehand to ensure compliance with regulations. Instagram

The gorge viewpoints offer stunning sunset vistas. Consider bringing a sundowner to enjoy the view. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve offers a great outdoor adventure for families. The purple trail is a good option for younger children or those new to hiking, as it's less strenuous and leads to a beautiful waterfall. Reddit+1 Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and stay close to adults, especially on more challenging sections. Reddit

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The braai areas can be a fun spot for a family picnic. Reddit Arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds and secure parking, making the day more relaxed for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

Solo hikers can enjoy the beauty of Krantzkloof Nature Reserve. A guide recommended the 3km Mphuti trail for solo visitors, noting its challenging inclines and best views. Reddit While generally considered relatively safe, sticking to shorter, well-marked trails and being aware of your surroundings is advisable. Reddit

It's a fantastic place for personal reflection and enjoying nature's tranquility. The stunning waterfalls and gorge views provide a rewarding backdrop for a solo journey. Instagram+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve is a photographer's dream, offering dramatic landscapes and natural beauty. The gorge viewpoints provide sweeping panoramas perfect for landscape shots, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram The waterfalls, particularly Kloof Falls, are captivating subjects, especially after rainfall when they are at their most powerful. InstagramReddit

Be prepared for varied terrain, which can add dynamic elements to your photos. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely find plenty of inspiration. Instagram While drone photography might be possible, it's essential to check the reserve's regulations beforehand. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve boasts over 20 km of hiking trails, catering to a range of fitness levels. The color-coded routes make navigation relatively straightforward. For a more relaxed experience, the purple trail is a good choice, leading to a beautiful waterfall. InstagramReddit If you're seeking a challenge, the blue and yellow trails offer steeper inclines, rocky terrain, and rewarding views. Reddit Some hikers have described the ascent on the return leg as a significant workout, even for seasoned individuals. Reddit

It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be slippery, especially after rain. InstagramReddit Visitors are advised to be cautious of rock formations and to tread carefully. Reddit For those who enjoy a more adventurous hike, the trails involve climbing rocks and crossing streams, making for a memorable experience. Reddit

Remember to bring plenty of water and any personal necessities, as facilities on the trails are limited. The reserve's map can be accessed by scanning a QR code at the entrance hut, providing essential information for your hike. Reddit

Chasing Waterfalls and Views

The reserve is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, with Kloof Falls being a major highlight. InstagramReddit+1 The sight of water cascading down granite slabs into a misty, mossy pool is described as 'pure magic.' Instagram Different trails lead to various viewpoints of these natural wonders, each offering unique perspectives. Reddit

Beyond the waterfalls, Krantzkloof Nature Reserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of two deep gorges. Instagram These vistas are a significant draw for visitors, providing incredible photo opportunities and a sense of awe. TikTokInstagram The reserve was established in 1950 and has since become a cherished spot for nature lovers and hikers seeking scenic beauty. Instagram

For those looking for an elevated experience, some local B&Bs offer accommodation with direct views overlooking the reserve, promising spectacular scenery right from your doorstep. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters

While Krantzkloof Nature Reserve is primarily known for its landscapes, it also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors have reported sightings of zebras along the trails, adding an exciting element to the hiking experience. Reddit The reserve is also home to various bird species, making it a pleasant destination for birdwatchers. Instagram

It's important to remember that these are wild animals, and maintaining a safe distance is crucial. Observing them respectfully in their natural habitat enhances the experience for everyone. Reddit

While not a primary focus, the presence of wildlife contributes to the overall natural charm and appeal of Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, making each visit potentially unique.

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