Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve - Image 1
1 / 3

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

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning hikes

Cooler temperatures & wildlife activity

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve - Image 1

Umgeni River Walk

Best Time

Morning hikes

Cooler temperatures & wildlife activity

CrowdLow

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

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
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

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?

🥾 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

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Umgeni River Walk is an excellent choice for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The well-marked trails, like the 'shelter hike', are suitable for children, offering a good balance of exploration and manageable distance. Reddit The chance to see animals such as zebras and antelope is a huge hit with kids, turning a simple hike into an exciting safari experience. Reddit

Remember that dogs are not allowed, so make arrangements for pets. Bringing plenty of water is always a good idea, especially on warmer days, and the picnic spots provide a perfect opportunity for a family meal amidst nature. Reddit The R35 entrance fee makes it an affordable outing for the whole family. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day Hikers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking a refreshing day hike, Umgeni River Walk delivers with its scenic trails and natural beauty. The variety of routes means you can tailor your hike to your desired length and difficulty. Reddit The presence of multiple waterfalls adds a unique charm, offering beautiful photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature. Reddit

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to spot local wildlife, including zebras and various antelope species, adding an extra layer of engagement to the experience. Reddit The well-maintained paths and picnic facilities make it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for a day spent outdoors. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

The Umgeni River Walk offers a network of well-maintained and clearly marked hiking trails, catering to various fitness levels. Visitors can choose from shorter, more leisurely walks to longer, more challenging routes. The 'shelter hike' is often mentioned as a perfect distance for families or those looking for a moderate trek. Reddit The trails wind through beautiful natural scenery, providing a refreshing escape into nature. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections might be uneven. Reddit

As you explore, you'll encounter several picturesque cascades and waterfalls. These are not only visually stunning but also offer opportunities to refill water bottles, a practical tip for longer hikes. Reddit The diverse landscape ensures that each trail offers a unique perspective and experience, making it a rewarding destination for repeat visits. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters

A significant draw for visitors to the Umgeni River Walk is the chance to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Common sightings include zebras, wildebeest, and various antelope species. Reddit These animals roam freely within the reserve, adding an element of surprise and excitement to your hike. While sightings are frequent, it's important to remember that these are wild animals, and maintaining a respectful distance is crucial for both your safety and theirs. Reddit

Observing these animals against the backdrop of the natural landscape provides fantastic photographic opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon can be particularly rewarding times for wildlife spotting, as animals are often more active during these cooler parts of the day. Reddit The presence of these animals contributes to the overall pristine and well-kept feel of the reserve, making it a truly special place to visit. Reddit

You may also like