Africa is home to some of the world’s most powerful and dramatic waterfalls. From iconic giants to hidden cascades, here are 10 stunning African waterfalls every traveler should visit:
Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe)
With the largest curtain of falling water on earth, Victoria Falls earns its reputation as one of the planet’s greatest natural wonders.
Facts and Description
Plunging 354 feet down into the Batoka Gorge, this UNESCO World Heritage Site straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe along the mighty Zambezi River. Viewing platforms across the mile-wide falls let you take in the sheer enormity as water thunders down the cliffside. The misty spray rises over 300 feet in the air!
When to Visit
See Victoria Falls at its absolute peak flow from March to May. But visibility is best from August to December when water levels are lower.
Where to Stay
Treat yourself to a room with a view at The Victoria Falls Hotel or Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe. Affordable lodges like Victoria Falls Backpackers or hostels offer stays on the Zambia side.
Augrabies Falls (South Africa)
The Orange River crashes into tiered rock layers at Augrabies Falls inside Augrabies Falls National Park.
Facts and Description
Translating to “place of great noise”, Augrabies Falls consists of 18 distinct waterfalls spanning nearly 1,000 feet across. The Main Falls drop around 240 feet into a deep, narrow gorge framed by imposing granite cliffs.
When to Visit
Peak flow is February to April. But May to September sees fewer crowds and great wildlife watching with springboks, kudus, and more gathering near the water.
Where to Stay
Choose from chalets or guest cottages at the Falls’ Rest Camp inside the park. In nearby Upington, Protea Hotel offers upscale rooms.
Tugela Falls (South Africa)
Plunging over 3,000 feet in five separate drops, Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg Mountains holds the title for tallest waterfall in Africa.
Facts and Description
Fed by the Tugela River, this towering waterfall tumbles down Amphitheatre rock face within Royal Natal National Park. The multi-tiered waterfall spans the length of over a dozen football fields! The forceful flow carves pools and ravines into the cliffsides.
When to Visit
Tugela Falls flows year-round though rainfall impacts intensity. Peak flow is February to April. Hike during May-August to likely catch the falls at their fullest.
Where to Stay
Stay in the park at Thendele Hutted Camp or private lodges like Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse with gorgeous waterfall views.
Blue Nile Falls (Ethiopia)
On the upper Blue Nile River, Blue Nile Falls marks a dramatic geologic transition point as water plunges into the Ethiopian Highlands.
Facts and Description
Once dubbed “the Smoke that Thunders” by locals, this nearly 450 foot wide waterfall streams powerfully over a steep cliff near the town of Bahir Dar. While a hydroelectric dam has reduced its flow, it remains a mesmerizing sight, especially in flood season.
When to Visit
Peak flow is August to October during Ethiopia’s rainy season. November through April offers pleasant weather, fewer insects, and still impressive flow.
Where to Stay
The luxurious Kuriftu Resort & Spa overlooks the falls. Budget hotels like Zebib Pension have clean, basic rooms in Bahir Dar.
Seven Sisters Waterfall (South Africa)
A spectacular series of seven distinct yet connected falls, the Seven Sisters Waterfall tumbles down rocky outcrops just inland off the Indian Ocean.
Facts and Description
Part of the Tsitsikamma National Park, the Seven Sisters Waterfall consists of seven contiguous falls spanning over 200 feet across. Hike in from the visitor center to view the falls from below or above from scenic vantage points.
When to Visit
Scheduling depends on rainfall, but September to January are often ideal for flow. Peak visiting season is October/November. Avoid weekends if possible.
Where to Stay
Stay right inside the national park at the Woodcutters Journey’s End Cottages or nearby Storms River Mouth Rest Camp.
Rusumo Falls (Rwanda/Tanzania)
Straddling the border between Rwanda and Tanzania, Rusumo Falls holds special significance as the site of an important regional cooperation agreement.
Facts and Description
Beautiful Rusumo Falls has a tragic history as the site of deadly turmoil during the Rwandan genocide. Today, it is a symbol of hope as the location of a 2005 joint declaration of cooperation between Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi to share hydropower resources. Visitors can admire the lovely falls and learn about the region’s future.
When to Visit
The area has a tropical climate with rains March-May and November-December. Visit during drier months of June-October for best visibility though be prepared for crowds during peak times.
Where to Stay
Kigali offers many lodging options before heading to Rusumo Falls area. Camp inside Nyungwe Forest National Park or stay at hotels in Kigali like Serena Hotel.
Kariba Dam Spillway (Zimbabwe/Zambia)
As the world’s largest man-made reservoir, Lake Kariba’s spillway creates a thundering wall of falling water after heavy rains.
Facts and Description
This incredible natural phenomenon occurs when large floodgates must open at Kariba Dam to prevent overflow from massive Lake Kariba. The released water drops over 65 feet down a spillway, creating what looks like massive white curtains pouring through a concrete channel.
When to Visit
Due to reliance on seasonal rainfall, timing is unpredictable but roughly February through May. Check dam water levels and rainfall forecasts to plan for potential overflow.
Where to Stay
Kariba offers hotels, lodges and houseboat rentals overlooking the vast lake. Choose accommodation with views of the spillway like Caribbea Bay Resort.
Kalambo Falls (Zambia)
One of Africa’s widest waterfalls, Kalambo Falls plunges over 300 feet into the Kalambo River gorge along the Zambian/Tanzanian border.
Facts and Description
Kalambo Falls generates immense mist as around 315,000 gallons per second rush over its near half-mile width. Two separate falls make up Kalambo – one visible from Zambia, the other from Tanzania. Access it via the 59-mile Kalambo Trail starting near Mbala.
When to Visit
Peak flow follows Zambia’s rainy season around March to May. But November to mid-December offers pleasant weather, reduced insects, and gorgeous water flow.
Where to Stay
Campsites dot the Kalambo Trail. Mbala offers basic guesthouses and hotels like the simple but comfortable Honey Pot Guesthouse.
Kilimi Falls (Kenya)
Among Kenya’s most beautiful waterfalls, the crystalline Kilimi Falls tumble from Oloololo Escarpment down through Kiboko Forest.
Facts and Description
Fed by the Athi River, these falls consist of three gentle cascades totaling around 300 feet through lush forest. The pristine waterfall and natural pools are fantastic for swimming. Look for dazzling rainbows and abundant birdlife.
When to Visit
Peak flow follows the March-May rainy season. But the falls flow year-round. Visit during dry season of June-February to swim.
Where to Stay
Base yourself in the nearby capital city of Nairobi. Book a day tour to combine Kilimi Falls with other sights like Amboseli National Park.
Maletsunyane Falls (Lesotho)
The stunning 192-meter high Maletsunyane Falls is found within Semonkong in the mountainous country of Lesotho.
Facts and Description
Maletsunyane Falls plunges down the side of a massive amphitheater surrounded by sandstone cliffs dotted with caves. Visitors can abseil down the face for unrivaled views of the powerful cascades and jagged gorge below. Rainbows glimmer through the mist on sunny days.
When to Visit
Lesotho’s cooler dry season from May to August offers pleasant weather and thinner crowds. But visit year-round to catch the falls’ full flow.
Where to Stay
Stay right at Maletsunyane Lodge perched above the falls. Campgrounds and basic hotels can also be found in Semonkong village.
Conclusion
Africa’s incredible diversity extends to its waterfalls from mighty Victoria Falls to slender Rusumo Falls. Seeking out these cascading wonders offers the chance to experience Africa’s natural beauty and cultural richness. As you explore lush rainforests, winding trails, isolated lodges, and roaring falls, you’ll surely create cherished memories. Let Africa’s majestic waterfalls rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your future travels.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit waterfalls in Africa?
Peak waterfall viewing is often during the rainy season from February to May when water flow is greatest. But drier months may offer better accessibility, fewer insects, and improved visibility.
Is it safe to hike to waterfalls in Africa?
Exercise caution as with any hiking. Research areas in advance, hike with a guide when possible, wear proper footwear, avoid ledges, and beware of slippery rocks.
What should I pack for visiting waterfalls?
Bring waterproof shoes, lightweight layers, bathing suit, towel, rain gear, plastic bags to protect gear, headlamp, bug spray, sun protection, first aid kit, and plenty of water.
Can I swim in the pools below African waterfalls?
Some falls feature pools suitable for swimming if done carefully and where permitted. Avoid pools with strong currents. Beware of risks like parasites – follow local guidance and avoid drinking untreated water.
What is the difference between visiting waterfalls in dry vs rainy season?
The rainy season sees greater waterfall flow, but weather can hinder hiking and visibility. The dry season offers pleasant weather though lower water levels. Choose based on your preferences and itinerary flexibility.