Tugela Falls is the second highest waterfall in the world. The total drop in five free-leaping falls is 3,110 feet (947 meters). They are located in the in the Royal Natal National Park in the Northern Drakensberg. The Tugela Falls are easily viewed after a heavy rain from the main travel road into the park, glistening from the reflection of the late afternoon sun.
The source of the Tugela River (Zulu for ‘sudden’) is at Mont-Aux-Sources several kilometers from the escarpment from which the falls drop. The water is pure and safe to drink above the falls.
Hiking Trails to the Tugela Falls
- The Gorge Walk to the base of the Tugela Falls: From Tendele Camp, proceed down to the Tugela river, where the main Gorge path will be reached. From here the route is obvious. There is no more popular nor picturesque walk than the Gorge walk; it should not be missed, and to enable you to make the most of the trip, take a full day over it. (Return trip 22,5 km : 6 hours 30 minutes).
- Sentinel Peak car park to the top of the amphitheatre via the chain ladder. 5 hour return hike. This is the only day hiking trail that will get you to the top of the Drakensberg escarpment in a reasonable day. The path ends at the top of the Tugela Falls.
Accommodation near Tugela Falls
- Montusi Mountain Lodge – luxury resort accommodation with panoramic views of the magnificent Amphitheatre
- Tendele Camp – Self Catering Bungalow accommodation in Royal Natal national park
- `Drakensberg Mountain Retreat – Northern Drakensberg accommodation overlooking Royal Natal National Park and the Amphitheatre