Howick Falls is one of South Africa’s most breathtaking natural landmarks. Plunging 95 meters (311 feet) over a sheer dolerite cliff face into a deep green pool below, this magnificent waterfall on the Umgeni River forms the central crown jewel of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Known locally in isiZulu as KwaNogqaza (“Place of the Tall One”), Howick Falls lies just 105 kilometers inland from the coastal city of Durban along the N3 highway corridor. Whether you are embarking on a scenic day trip along the famous Midlands Meander, seeking heart-pounding adventure on the nearby Karkloof Canopy Zipline, or exploring local Zulu mythology, this guide provides all the factual information needed to plan your visit.
Top Rated Tours & Canopy Adventures
On the main viewing deck and surrounding Midlands reserve, joining a structured tour ensures instant mobile tickets, round-trip transport, and certified local guides.
Top Rated AdventureKarkloof Canopy Tour Zipline Adventure in KZN Midlands
- ✔ Instant Mobile Ticket
- ✔ Free Cancellation up to 24h
- ✔ Professional Local Guide
Best SellerFull-Day Drakensberg Mountains & Midlands Meander Tour from Durban
- ✔ Instant Mobile Ticket
- ✔ Free Cancellation up to 24h
- ✔ Professional Local Guide
Key Facts & Destination Overview
Quick Visitor Summary
- **Location:** Howick, uMngeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa. - **Viewing Deck Hours:** Daylight hours daily (08:00 AM – 05:00 PM recommended for active security). - **Entrance Fee:** Free to view from the Falls Drive public platform. Guided gorge hikes range from R100 to R250. - **Best Time to Visit:** Summer (November to March) for maximum thunderous water flow; Winter (June to August) for clear, crisp gorge hiking weather.
Detailed Ticket Options & Activity Comparison
While standing at the edge of the public platform costs nothing, exploring the broader Umgeni River gorge and surrounding canopy reserve offers several distinct activities.
| Option / Package | Price Range | Duration | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Viewing Deck Access | Free / No Ticket Required | 30 - 60 Mins | Sightseers, photography, road trip stops | Free Access |
| Guided Gorge Descent Hike | R100 - R250 (~$5.50 - $13.50) | 2 - 3 Hours | Fit hikers, nature photographers | View Hiking Rules → |
| Karkloof Canopy Zipline Tour | R890 (~$48.00) | 3 - 4 Hours | Families (6+), adrenaline seekers | Read Zipline Review → |
| Full-Day Drakensberg & Midlands Tour | R2,100 (~$115.00) | 9 - 10 Hours | Day trippers from Durban hotels | Read Day Tour Review → |
For a detailed price breakdown and tour inclusion guide, visit our dedicated Howick Falls Tour Booking Guide.
Geography, Geology & History of Howick Falls
Howick Falls was formed millions of years ago as the Umgeni River cut its way through hard dark dolerite sills that intruded into the softer Karoo sequence shales and sandstones of the interior plateau. The river drops precipitously over a vertical cliff into a deep circular gorge basin before continuing its journey east toward the Indian Ocean at Durban.
European history in the area began in the early 1840s when Voortrekker settlers established a river crossing upstream from the precipice. In 1850, the British colonial administration established a formal village here, naming it Howick after Earl Grey (Viscount Howick), then Secretary of State for the Colonies in London.
Today, the town of Howick is governed by the uMngeni Local Municipality and serves as the primary gateway to the Midlands Meander—South Africa’s oldest and most successful regional arts, crafts, and eco-tourism route.
The Zulu Legend of Inkanyamba (The Monster Serpent)
Long before European settlers mapped the Umgeni River, indigenous Zulu populations held deep spiritual reverence for KwaNogqaza. According to traditional Zulu folklore, the dark plunge pool at the foot of Howick Falls is the legendary home of Inkanyamba, a massive, serpent-like creature with a horse-like head and wings.
Local folklore asserts that Inkanyamba grows furious during the hot summer months, taking to the skies to search for a mate. Its flight is said to trigger torrential downpours, severe hail, and destructive lightning storms across the Midlands plateau.
Traditional Zulu healers (sangomas) still travel to the banks of the Umgeni River near the crest of the falls to perform sacred rituals and leave offerings to honor the ancestral water spirits. Visitors viewing the falls are requested to remain respectful when encountering traditional ceremonies along the riverbank. Read more about cultural etiquette on our Howick Falls Rules & Safety Page.
Suggested Half-Day Itinerary for Howick Falls
To maximize your visit to Howick, follow this recommended half-day itinerary combining sightseeing, craft shopping, and local dining:
Arrival at Falls Drive Viewing Deck
Park in the dedicated lot at the end of Falls Drive. Greet the local high-visibility car guards, walk past the craft market stalls, and take in your first panoramic view of the 95-meter precipice.
Howick Craft Market & Woodcarvers
Browse the vibrant open-air market surrounding the platform. Local Zulu artisans sell handmade wooden giraffe sculptures, woven baskets, beaded jewelry, and stone carvings.
Howick Gorge Walk or Zipline
Active visitors can embark on the guided 2-hour Gorge Hike down to the pool base, or drive 15 minutes north to join the thrilling Karkloof Canopy Tour Zipline.
Midlands Country Lunch
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the cozy cafes along Main Street or head 5 minutes down the R103 to Piggly Wiggly Country Village for fresh farm cheeses, wine, and wood-fired pizzas.
How to Get to Howick Falls (Transport & Routes)
Howick Falls is easily accessible by car, situated just 3 kilometers off South Africa’s primary N3 National Highway, which connects Durban to Johannesburg.
- From Durban (105 km / 1 hr 15 min): Take the N3 West past Pietermaritzburg. Take Exit 99 (Howick / Tweedie), turn left onto Main Street (R103), and follow signs to Falls Drive.
- From King Shaka Airport (DUR): Take the N2 South, merge onto N3 West, and proceed to Exit 99.
- From Johannesburg (460 km / 4 hr 30 min): Take the N3 South toward Durban. Take Exit 99, turn right into Howick, and follow Falls Drive to the parking area.
For detailed driving maps, toll booth costs, and guided day tour transfer options, consult our comprehensive Howick Falls Transport & Transit Guide.
Visitor Safety, Wildlife Rules & Car Parking
Howick is generally safe for international tourists, but practicing sensible travel precautions is recommended:
- Cliff Edge Safety: Stay strictly behind the stone walls and wooden guard railings. The sandstone precipice is 95 meters high and drops sheer into the canyon.
- Vervet Monkeys & Samango Monkeys: Wild monkey troops frequent the trees near the craft market. Do not feed them, and keep all food and drinks zipped inside bags or vehicles.
- Parking Security: Park in designated spaces on Falls Drive. Tipping informal car guards R10 to R20 ($0.50–$1.00 USD) when leaving is standard practice across South Africa.
- Gorge Hike Footwear: Rocks near the plunge pool are constantly wet from waterfall spray. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with deep rubber tread.
For full safety guidelines, health precautions, and emergency contact numbers, review our Howick Visitor Rules & Safety Guide.
Best Seasons to Visit & Local Events
The climate in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is temperate, with four distinct seasons:
- Summer (November to March): Warm and humid (24°C–29°C) with afternoon thunderstorms. The river reaches its highest water volume, producing a roaring waterfall display.
- Autumn (April to May): Warm, dry days (18°C–24°C) with pleasant breezes. Excellent for craft shopping along the Midlands Meander.
- Winter (June to August): Crisp, clear sunny days (16°C–20°C) with cold nights. Ideal for gorge hiking and fireside dining.
- Spring (September to October): Blooming wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. September hosts the annual Midlands Meander Arts & Craft Festival.
Read our full seasonal weather breakdown on our Midlands Festival & Seasonality Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA FAQ)
Plan Your Howick Falls Adventure Today
Whether you are stopping for an hour on an N3 road trip or spending a full weekend exploring the KZN Midlands, Howick Falls is an unforgettable South African experience. Explore our specialized guides to book your adventure:
- 🎟️ Book Karkloof Zipline & Tour Tickets
- 🚗 View Driving Routes & Transport Details
- 🛡️ Read Visitor Safety Rules & Zulu Lore
- 🗓️ Check Seasonality & Festival Dates
- 🧗 Read Full Review: Karkloof Canopy Tour Zipline
- 🚐 Read Full Review: Drakensberg & Midlands Day Tour
Official Resources: For municipal updates visit the uMngeni Local Municipality. For regional tourism visit KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority.