Paradise Valley Nature Reserve
A serene natural escape in Pinetown, featuring a stunning waterfall, lush trails, and abundant bird-life, perfect for picnics and photography.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rainbows at the waterfall
Paradise Valley Nature Reserve
Best Time
Rainbows at the waterfall
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural escape in Pinetown, featuring a stunning waterfall, lush trails, and abundant bird-life, perfect for picnics and photography.
"This reserve is a photographer's dream, especially for waterfalls and nature shots."
Check Water Advisories
Be aware of potential advisories regarding water quality before planning to swim or get close to the waterfall.
Pack a Picnic Basket
Enjoy the beautiful picnic spots with your own food and drinks. Braai stands are also available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Waterfall
Waterfall Trail
A stunning cascade surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for photos and a refreshing natural spectacle.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Various trails
Explore diverse landscapes, from tropical forests to grasslands, on well-maintained paths suitable for all fitness levels.
Picnic & Braai Areas
Entrance area
Enjoy a relaxing day out with family and friends in shaded picnic spots, some equipped with braai stands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Paradise Valley
Best Times for Photography & Peace
Weekdays offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds, making it ideal for enjoying the nature trails and picnic spots.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Water Advisories
Be aware of potential advisories regarding water quality before planning to swim or get close to the waterfall.
Pack a Picnic Basket
Enjoy the beautiful picnic spots with your own food and drinks. Braai stands are also available.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easier trails can be uneven; comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring.
Limited Parking
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends or busy days. Arrive early for the best spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Water Advisories
Be aware of potential advisories regarding water quality before planning to swim or get close to the waterfall.
Pack a Picnic Basket
Enjoy the beautiful picnic spots with your own food and drinks. Braai stands are also available.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easier trails can be uneven; comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring.
Limited Parking
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends or busy days. Arrive early for the best spots.
Photography Opportunities
This spot is a photographer's dream, especially for waterfalls and nature shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning waterfall and the beautiful, well-maintained nature trails, making it a great spot for photography and family picnics. Some note potential construction noise and advisories about water quality, but the overall serene atmosphere and abundant bird-life are highly praised.
"R21 entrance fee, Rhino card not accepted.
Incredible bird-life
Due to repairs on the N3 bridges, there is a lot of construction noise and activity.
The reserve is also not accessible on the other side of the river due to it being a construction site.
Also, apparently high levels of sewerage in the water feom upstream.
Apparently they are working on it, but just be warned - don't think about swimming or getting a selfie under the waterfall.
But besides that, the forest is beautiful.
The bird life is healthy and a huge variety of species.
The trails are well maintained and easily hiked (I was in slops)"
jason bartlett
"I beautiful, well secured picnic site for any occasion. Pay a small entry fee for peace of mind. Well set with a nature trail and natural river with a waterfall. Shaded areas with braai stands and well manicure gardens."
Priscilla Anirudh
"The hike to the Waterfall is long with a few challenging parts, but it's definitely worth the trip. There's a lovely park & braai area. Great outing for friends & family, and you can take your own picnic basket"
Rhoda Umar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paradise Valley Nature Reserve is located in Pinetown, a short drive from Durban. You can reach it by car via the N3 highway. Be mindful of potential construction detours and noise affecting the N3 bridges.
Information on direct public transport routes is limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the reserve.
The reserve is generally open daily, but it's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours or temporary closures before your visit.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited, especially during peak times. Arriving early is recommended.
Currently, access from the other side of the river may be restricted due to ongoing construction work.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is quite affordable, typically around R19 for adults, with lower rates for children and pensioners. Rhino cards are not accepted.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
Yes, there are specific rates for educational groups, making it a good option for school trips.
No, Rhino cards are not accepted for entry into Paradise Valley Nature Reserve.
While some trails are well-maintained, the natural terrain might present challenges. The picnic areas are generally accessible. Further information on specific accessibility should be confirmed directly with the reserve.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Waterfall Trail is a popular choice, leading to the reserve's main attraction. Other trails offer varying lengths and scenery through forests and grasslands.
Due to potential advisories regarding water quality from upstream sewerage, swimming is not recommended.
Absolutely! The reserve is known for its incredible bird-life with a huge variety of species.
Yes, there are lovely picnic areas, some with braai stands, making it a great spot for a family outing or small gathering.
The reserve is generally considered safe, especially in the designated picnic areas. The trails are well-maintained, but always exercise caution when hiking.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The waterfall is a prime subject, especially in the summer afternoons when rainbows can appear. The lush forests and diverse birdlife also offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape photography. For the waterfall rainbow, aim for around 3 PM in summer.
Photography groups sometimes organize shoots here, making it a great place to connect with other photographers.
It's excellent for nature, landscape, wildlife, and even portrait photography due to its varied scenery.
For casual personal photography, no special permit is usually needed. Professional or commercial shoots might require prior arrangement or permits; it's best to inquire with the reserve management.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider the entrance fees, which are very reasonable for adults and children.
While swimming in the waterfall is not advised due to water quality concerns, the overall experience of exploring nature, spotting birds, and enjoying a picnic makes it a memorable outing for the whole family. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
It's ideal for landscape, nature, and even portrait photography.Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. While casual photography is welcome, professional shoots might require prior arrangements. The reserve's beauty provides endless inspiration for creating stunning visual content.
+1🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. While some trails have challenging sections, they are generally accessible for a refreshing nature walk. It's a perfect escape for a peaceful stroll and to reconnect with the outdoors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Paradise Valley
Many visitors find the trails well-maintained and manageable, even in casual footwear.
When planning your hike, consider the weather. The lush environment can be humid, especially during summer. Always carry water and be aware of your surroundings. The reserve is a fantastic place for a nature walk, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life.
+1Photography Paradise: Capturing the Falls and Flora
This phenomenon makes the waterfall a highly sought-after subject for photographers.Beyond the waterfall, the reserve's diverse ecosystems provide ample photographic opportunities. The tropical forest sections offer lush greenery and dappled light, perfect for capturing the atmosphere of the trails.
The abundance of bird-life also presents excellent chances for wildlife photography.When visiting for photography, consider the time of day for optimal lighting. Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer, more flattering light. Remember to bring your camera gear, and perhaps a tripod for those longer exposures at the waterfall. The reserve's natural beauty ensures you'll come away with memorable shots.
+1Picnics and Relaxation in Nature
For those who enjoy grilling, braai stands are available in some of the picnic areas, allowing you to enjoy a traditional South African braai amidst nature.
The combination of beautiful natural surroundings, accessible picnic spots, and the option for braaiing makes Paradise Valley Nature Reserve a popular choice for leisure and relaxation. It's a place where you can unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit