Howick Falls cascading into a deep green gorge on the Umgeni River in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa.

    Howick Falls plunges more than 90 metres into a forested gorge along the Umgeni River, creating one of the most iconic natural landmarks of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

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    Howick Falls

    Water Feature

    Howick Falls is one of South Africa's best-known waterfalls, where the Umgeni River drops approximately 95 metres into a dramatic gorge below. Easily accessible and highly photogenic, the falls have become an iconic destination in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and a focal point of the Midlands Meander.

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    Gallery

    Howick Falls cascading into a deep green gorge on the Umgeni River in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa.

    Howick Falls plunges more than 90 metres into a forested gorge along the Umgeni …

    Aerial view of Howick Falls dropping into a forested gorge beside the town of Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa.

    Aerial view of Howick Falls and the surrounding town, showing the Umgeni River p…

    Aerial view of Howick Falls plunging into a deep forested gorge surrounded by green parkland and the town of Howick in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

    Aerial view of Howick Falls and its surrounding gorge, where the Umgeni River dr…

    Close-up of Howick Falls cascading over vertical basalt cliffs with rainbow spray at the base, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa.

    Close-up view of Howick Falls plunging over basalt cliffs on the Umgeni River, w…

    Howick Falls plunging over a sheer cliff into a misty forested gorge on the Umgeni River in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa.

    Howick Falls thunders into a mist-filled gorge along the Umgeni River, surrounde…

    Quick Facts

    Access

    Roadside / Step-out

    0–5 min

    Elevation Gain

    10 m

    Best Light

    Afternoon
    Morning
    Overcast

    Soft light reduces harsh shadows within the gorge, preserves waterfall detail and improves visibility across the surrounding cliff faces.

    Why This Light

    Softens Contrast

    Season

    Year-Round Stable

    Water volume varies throughout the year, with stronger flows following summer rainfall and clearer conditions often occurring during the drier winter months.

    Crowds

    Often Busy

    Restrictions

    Primary viewpoints are easily accessible from public viewing areas near the falls. Additional viewpoints and trails may require short walks. Exercise caution near cliff edges and unfenced sections of the gorge.

    Photography Notes

    The classic Howick Falls composition is photographed from the main viewpoint overlooking the entire waterfall and gorge. Wide-angle compositions emphasise the height of the falls and surrounding cliffs, while longer focal lengths isolate the cascading water against the dark rock face. Overcast conditions often provide the most balanced lighting by reducing contrast between the bright water and shaded gorge.
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