Howick Falls Gorge Trail
Experience the breathtaking Howick Falls, a majestic cascade with stunning gorge views. Currently undergoing redevelopment, access may be restricted.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safer exploration
Howick Falls Gorge Trail
Best Time
Safer exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking Howick Falls, a majestic cascade with stunning gorge views. Currently undergoing redevelopment, access may be restricted.
"Breath of fresh air! Hopefully this beautiful landmark will be back for the public and tourists attractions."
🛡️ Hire a Local Guide
For safety and a better experience on the overgrown trail, hiring a local guide is highly recommended.
⚠️ Be Prepared for Overgrowth
The gorge trail can be heavily overgrown. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for a challenging hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Howick Falls Views
Bottom of the gorge
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Howick Falls from the gorge floor. A truly awe-inspiring sight.
The Gorge Walk (with caution)
Trail leading to the falls
Embark on a challenging hike through the gorge, offering unique perspectives of the surrounding nature. Be prepared for overgrown paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Safety First
Development & Future Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛡️ Hire a Local Guide
For safety and a better experience on the overgrown trail, hiring a local guide is highly recommended.
⚠️ Be Prepared for Overgrowth
The gorge trail can be heavily overgrown. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for a challenging hike.
🅿️ Parking Challenges
The main parking area may be closed. Be prepared to park in a neighboring block and walk.
💧 Check Current Access
Direct access to the waterfall is currently restricted. Verify current status before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛡️ Hire a Local Guide
For safety and a better experience on the overgrown trail, hiring a local guide is highly recommended.
⚠️ Be Prepared for Overgrowth
The gorge trail can be heavily overgrown. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for a challenging hike.
🅿️ Parking Challenges
The main parking area may be closed. Be prepared to park in a neighboring block and walk.
💧 Check Current Access
Direct access to the waterfall is currently restricted. Verify current status before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the breathtaking views of Howick Falls from the gorge, describing them as a 'breath of fresh air.' However, significant concerns are raised about the lack of maintenance, overgrown trails, and safety issues, with direct access to the waterfall currently restricted. There's a strong hope for future redevelopment to restore its appeal.
"The waterfall is beautiful but one can't access the trail to view from the bottom"
Fazlin Mccallum
"There is no access at present to the waterfall. Hopefully this beautiful landmark will be back for the publics and tourists attractions. It’s been a while. Here’s hoping. Lots of new plans and some development. We wait to see…"
Paul Hildyard
"5 stars for the views at the bottom of falls. Zero for the actual hike. Overgrown bush , human feces at start due to vagrants. I would say unsafe if you are not in a larger group. No maintenance for years by municipality, parking closed off. Parking in neighboring block. We paid for guide to have safe hike. Was charged R200 per person."
Anthony Pillay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is located in Howick, South Africa. While the main parking might be closed, you can often find parking in adjacent blocks and then access the trail entrance.
Public transport options to Howick are available, but direct access to the trail from a public transport stop might require a walk or a short taxi ride. It's best to check local transport schedules.
Navigate to Howick town and follow signs for Howick Falls. Be aware that the immediate parking area might be inaccessible, so have a backup parking plan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on ticketing for the gorge trail can be inconsistent due to maintenance issues. It's advisable to check locally or be prepared for potential guide fees.
Official opening hours may vary due to maintenance and access restrictions. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety, especially if exploring the trail.
While the falls themselves are a natural landmark, access to the gorge trail might involve fees or require hiring a guide, especially given the current state of maintenance.
Currently, direct access to the waterfall itself is restricted. Viewing points might be limited, and the primary attraction for visitors has been the gorge walk.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail can be significantly overgrown and may have safety concerns due to a lack of maintenance. Human feces have been reported at the start of the trail.
Due to overgrowth and potential safety issues, it's recommended to hike in a group and consider hiring a local guide for a safer experience.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip, long pants to protect against overgrowth, and consider insect repellent.
Facilities are reportedly minimal or non-existent due to lack of maintenance. Come prepared with your own water and snacks.
The most breathtaking views are often reported from the bottom of the gorge. However, access to these points can be challenging via the trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the gorge offers dramatic perspectives of the falls. Be cautious with your equipment on the rugged trail.
Direct access to the waterfall is currently restricted. The gorge trail offers views, but getting very close might be difficult or unsafe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Given the current access restrictions to the waterfall itself and the challenging trail conditions, families might find it more enjoyable to seek out alternative, well-maintained parks or nature reserves in the vicinity that offer safer and more accessible natural beauty. Always check for the latest local advisories before planning a family outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While the natural beauty of the falls is free to admire from a distance, the full experience of the gorge walk may incur costs if you opt for a guide for safety. Researching local transport options to Howick can also help save on travel expenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Gorge Trail
Many travelers suggest that hiring a local guide is not just beneficial but essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Guides are familiar with the trail's nuances, can help avoid hazards, and often provide historical or ecological insights. The cost for a guide has been reported around R200 per person.
Despite the challenges, the reward for completing the gorge walk is often described as spectacular. The views of the falls from the bottom are considered breathtaking and well worth the effort for those who are prepared. However, it's important to manage expectations regarding the trail's condition and prioritize safety above all else.
The Future of Howick Falls
However, there are indications of future development and plans to revitalize the landmark. While direct access to the waterfall is currently restricted, there's hope that these new plans will bring about improvements, including better maintenance and renewed public access. Visitors are advised to stay informed about local announcements regarding any progress or reopening phases.
The community eagerly awaits these developments, hoping to see Howick Falls restored to its former glory as a premier tourist attraction. The potential for breathtaking views and a well-maintained gorge trail remains, contingent on effective municipal intervention and investment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit