Berlin Falls South Africa
Marvel at Berlin Falls, Mpumalanga's tallest waterfall, a unique candle-shaped cascade with a refreshing pool for swimming.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Berlin Falls South Africa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at Berlin Falls, Mpumalanga's tallest waterfall, a unique candle-shaped cascade with a refreshing pool for swimming.
"Beautiful, waterfall. View is distanced but it makes it mesmerising."
💰 Bring Cash for Entry & Souvenirs
Entrance fee is R25 p.p. for SA citizens. Vendors also prefer cash for their unique crafts. :moneybag:
⏰ Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the rush for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities. Weekends can get busy!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Candle-Shaped Cascade
Main viewing area
Witness the impressive height and unique, candle-like shape of Berlin Falls, the region's tallest waterfall.
Refreshing Pool at the Base
Base of the waterfall
Take a dip in the cool, inviting pool formed at the bottom of the magnificent waterfall.
Local Souvenir Stalls
Near the entrance
Browse unique crafts and souvenirs from local vendors, offering a taste of Mpumalanga's artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Manage Expectations for the View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bring Cash for Entry & Souvenirs
Entrance fee is R25 p.p. for SA citizens. Vendors also prefer cash for their unique crafts. :moneybag:
⏰ Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the rush for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities. Weekends can get busy!
⚠️ Check Bathroom Facilities
Some visitors noted issues with bathroom doors not locking and lack of amenities. Be prepared, especially if traveling solo.
📸 Distant but Mesmerizing View
The main view is a bit distant, but the waterfall's height and shape are still stunning. Manage expectations!
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash for Entry & Souvenirs
Entrance fee is R25 p.p. for SA citizens. Vendors also prefer cash for their unique crafts. :moneybag:
⏰ Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the rush for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities. Weekends can get busy!
⚠️ Check Bathroom Facilities
Some visitors noted issues with bathroom doors not locking and lack of amenities. Be prepared, especially if traveling solo.
📸 Distant but Mesmerizing View
The main view is a bit distant, but the waterfall's height and shape are still stunning. Manage expectations!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Berlin Falls to be a beautiful and impressive waterfall, particularly appreciating its unique candle-like shape and the refreshing pool at its base. While the view is somewhat distant, many agree it's a worthwhile stop on the Panorama Route. Some travelers noted that the souvenir sales can be a bit overwhelming and advised caution regarding the condition of the bathroom facilities.
"Beautiful spot! Can get crowded, so come early and be patient. Bring cash if you’d like to buy a souvenir from the vendors. But be wary of the bathrooms, especially if traveling alone… doors didn’t lock, and there were no toilet seats or soap."
Payal Amin
"Pretty fall but the view is a bit distant. Easy access, no hike required. Still worth a visit if you’re doing the full Panorama Route, just manage expectations."
Kim K
"Beautiful, waterfall. Worth paying to see, but sales of the same mass produced curios is a bit too much"
Harry Alfred Stannard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Berlin Falls is located on the R532 road, a scenic drive from Graskop as part of the Panorama Route. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage directing you to the entrance. The drive itself offers beautiful Mpumalanga scenery.
Yes, Berlin Falls is a popular stop along the famous Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, South Africa. It's often visited in conjunction with other attractions like God's Window and Lisbon Falls.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Berlin Falls, allowing you to explore the entire Panorama Route at your own pace. Car rental is readily available in major towns like Nelspruit or Hazyview.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to arrange private transport or join a guided tour that includes Berlin Falls as part of the Panorama Route itinerary.
Berlin Falls is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the southern gates of Kruger National Park, making it a feasible day trip for those staying nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Berlin Falls is R25 per person for South African citizens. Foreign visitor fees may differ. It's advisable to confirm current pricing upon arrival.
No, tickets for Berlin Falls are typically purchased at the entrance gate on the day of your visit. Advance booking is generally not required.
Berlin Falls is usually open daily from morning until late afternoon. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's a good idea to check locally or upon arrival.
While some vendors might accept cards, it's highly recommended to bring cash for the entrance fee and any purchases from souvenir stalls, as card facilities may not always be available or reliable.
There is no separate fee to swim in the pool at the base of Berlin Falls; it is included with your general entrance ticket.
📸 📸 Photography
Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides good lighting for photographs, as the sun can illuminate the waterfall. However, early morning can offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The primary viewing point for Berlin Falls is at a distance, offering a panoramic view. You cannot walk directly to the base of the falls from the main viewpoint.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full scale of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. A tripod can help with stability, especially if you want to achieve a silky water effect in your photos.
The main viewing platform offers the iconic shot. Explore the area around the entrance for different perspectives, including shots of the souvenir stalls with the falls in the background.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Berlin Falls or any protected natural area.
🎫 💧 Onsite Experience
Basic facilities are available, including a viewing platform and souvenir stalls. However, some visitors have noted that bathroom facilities can be basic and may have issues with locking doors or missing amenities.
Yes, there is a pool at the base of Berlin Falls where visitors can swim. It's a refreshing spot to cool off, especially on a warm day.
No, the main viewing point for Berlin Falls is easily accessible with minimal walking required from the parking area. It's a very convenient stop.
There are no formal restaurants or cafes directly at Berlin Falls. It's advisable to pack snacks and drinks or plan to dine in nearby towns like Graskop or Pilgrim's Rest.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, even though there isn't much walking. Lightweight clothing is suitable for the Mpumalanga climate. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main viewing point is a bit distant, the sheer height and unique shape of the falls are still captivating for children. The souvenir stalls can also be a point of interest, offering small trinkets. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited on-site. Be aware of the bathroom situation, as mentioned in reviews, and be prepared for basic facilities.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
It's a great place to break up a longer drive, offering a beautiful natural spectacle without demanding significant time or energy. Combine it with nearby attractions like Lisbon Falls or God's Window for a comprehensive Panorama Route experience. Remember to bring cash for the entrance fee and any impulse souvenir purchases.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Panorama Route
While Berlin Falls itself is a significant attraction, its charm is amplified by its location. The drive to and from the falls is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. Expect winding roads, stunning vistas, and opportunities to stop at various viewpoints. The accessibility of Berlin Falls, requiring little to no strenuous hiking, makes it a popular choice for all types of travelers looking to experience the beauty of the region without extensive physical exertion.
Many travelers find that the Panorama Route offers a diverse range of experiences, from the sheer drop views at God's Window to the geological marvels of Bourke's Luck Potholes. Berlin Falls, with its unique cascade and swimming pool, adds a different kind of natural beauty to this already impressive collection of sights. It’s a place where you can appreciate the raw power and artistry of nature in a relatively short visit.
Photography Tips for Berlin Falls
For those interested in capturing the movement of water, a tripod is highly recommended. Using a slower shutter speed will create that sought-after silky water effect, transforming the powerful cascade into a smooth, ethereal flow. This technique works best when the light is not too harsh, making overcast days or the softer light of early morning or late afternoon ideal. Experiment with different shutter speeds to find the look you prefer.
Beyond the waterfall itself, don't overlook the souvenir stalls near the entrance. They offer opportunities for interesting foreground elements in your shots, adding a touch of local culture to your landscape photography. Remember to also capture the journey – the scenic drive along the Panorama Route is full of photographic potential, from winding roads to distant mountain views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit