Let’s go

THE year 2020 saw a spike in the number of people who became hikers. With gyms closed, travel prohibited and barely a night life existing, many took to it with gusto. Clubs were formed and joined and we saw an endless stream of content, where many shared their weekly sojourns in nature.

And then there were those who took it a step further, hiking near waterfalls and going for a dip after their long walk. Others simply stood underneath the gushing washing, getting a free back massage from Mother Nature, fully ensconced in her embrace.

So if you are one of those who crave hiking spots, waterfalls, and that forest vibe, then this is for you. Here are the majestic waterfall spots to explore in South Africa.

WESTERN CAPE Meiringspoort Waterfall, De Rust

Meiringspoort Waterfall is situated in a small town called De Rust. It is one of the town’s main attractions and is definitely a must-see. It is surrounded by magnificent mountains and scenic views. There are also hundreds of bird species to delight in if you’re a bird watcher. The best thing about it is that it’s free of charge and everyone is more than welcome to explore its beauty. Whether you’re there for the view or swim, the Great Waterfall is a gem waiting to be experienced.

Duiwelsbos Waterfall

Now I know the name sounds a bit crazy, but the waterfall is worth it and is situated near Swellendam. This is for those who enjoy a bit of mystery before getting to the waterfall. There is a trail to take before reaching the waterfall. The trail is particularly used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips.

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

This nature reserve is located in Stellenbosch on the Jonkershoek Valley road. It is surrounded by the majestic Jonkershoek Mountains and parts of the valley. The rugged Jonkershoek Mountains, which

LITTLE things can make a big difference when you’re travelling.

So let’s talk about clips, passport holders, laundry bags and other items that generally go unmentioned.

Who even contemplates something like a wallet before they go on vacation?

Karin Kemp does, because a pickpocket swiped her wallet during a trip to Italy. She was on an escalator to a platform at a train station in Milan, and the thief scored her IDs, credit cards and cash.

Kemp, a retired

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designer form part of the Boland Mountains, are ideal for hiking enthusiasts. If you’re in the mood for a dip after your hike, there are four rivers found in the Jonkershoek Mountains, including various rock pools, and most importantly, waterfalls.

Cecilia Waterfall via Kirstenbosch

The Cecilia Waterfall via Kirstenbosch is a 6.8km loop trail near Cape Town. It includes a waterfall and a trail that is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and bird watching. If you have a dog that is keen on joining the trip, they from Matthews, NC, learnt the hard way never to put all of her travel documents, credit cards and money in the same place.

Now she carries her credit cards, cash and change in a slim wallet, which she keeps in a secure pocket that she can zip.

As an extra precaution, she keeps her credit card in an envelope that blocks radio-frequency identification, or RFID, to prevent it from being scanned.

The rest of her valuables go into fabric pockets in her belt. She hasn’t had a problem with pickpockets since then. There are several wallets that

are also allowed to make use of the trail.

Crystal Pools – Steenbras River Gorge

This is an all-time favourite, especially for locals who stay close to the area. If hiking is your sweet spot, then this is perfect for you. The hiking trail is considered challenging. However, the views and the rock pools along the way make it worth it all. Entry fee for the Steenbras River Gorge is R75 per person and the entry fee for the Steenbras hiking trails is R25 per person. can help travellers avoid scenarios like Kemp’s.

The Snapback Slim Air is an ultrasleek leather wallet designed for Apple’s AirTags.

You can slide the tracker into a pouch without making the wallet look overstuffed, and quickly find your wallet if you misplace it. The wallet can

GAUTENG Cradle Moon: Green Trail

This exquisite trail is located near Zwartkop, Gauteng. It is a heavily trafficked loop trail that features a beautiful lake. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and birdwatching. According to reviews the trail is well marked and follows a circular route around cradle lake for visitors to enjoy.

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens

The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens is one of Gauteng’s sweet escapes. The hiking trail starts at the waterfall and there is lots to explore here, with great picnic set ups and perfect spots to snap that selfie. The waterfall is at the source of the Crocodile River which flows into Hartbeespoort Dam in the Magaliesberg.

West Pools Mountain Sanctuary Park, Magaliesburg

If you’re looking for something for all ages to enjoy, then this is the place to be. This hiking trail is considered easy and if you’re in the mood to cool down there are fantastic rock pools to enjoy. This beautiful location is situated near Magaliesburg, Gauteng. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and bird watching.

hold up to six cards and some cash.

I like the Slim Air because the pouch also fits some key fobs, so you never have to worry about losing those, either.

Another slimline wallet, the ZH Slim Card Case also offers a sleek alternative for carrying your money and cards. It is made with a reinforced leather binding, which improves structure and durability.

It only has room for four cards and a sleeve for cash, so you have to choose what you bring.

What if you need more space?

I’ve always liked solutions such as the Travelpro Essentials Leather Passport Cover, which holds up to four cards in addition to your passport.

No one should leave home without one of these useful accessories.

Today, there are clips especially for travellers, such as the Heroclip Mini. The Mini can hold up to 18kg and weighs just under 28g.

While researching this story, I heard about a new type of clip called theKlipTrip, which is expected to be available this year. It attaches to rolling luggage handles and holds handbags

KWAZULU-NATAL Paradise Valley Nature Reserve

Doesn’t it just already sound like a great place? Paradise Valley Nature Reserve, is one of the two national monuments located in Pinetown. It will take you 20 minutes to reach the waterfall. However, it is advised that visitors avoid swimming as the Umbilo River is not known for its water quality. There are four trails that start at the Interpretive Centre and you can make your way down to the picnic area.

Krantzkloof Waterfall

This beautiful reserve is located along the Nkutu River gorge. Visitors are able to enjoy and explore a variety of fun activities, such as; hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and wild flower viewing. There is a fee to enter the reserve.

Howick Falls Gorge Walk

The Howick Falls Gorge Walk is an easy trail to follow and enjoy. It will take you through the majestic riverine forest, grottos and meandering streams, surrounded by the greenery of the Natal Midlands.

The waterfall is a sight to behold and be sure to take a dip while you are there. It is manageable for all ages and you can arrange a trail guide if you would like one.

or outerwear.

Kiu Ghadjar, one of the company's founders, said theKlipTrip was supposed to launch last year, but it was delayed by the pandemic. “We plan to license the patent to existing suitcase manufacturers,” he told me.

Finally, there are items you would just never consider, such as laundry bags.

Most people pile their clothes back into their carry-on, but that’s a mistake, because doing so can lead to overstuffed luggage, and you might lose a sock or two in the mayhem. (I have.) I like Compression Cubes, because they allow you to jam a lot of clothes into a small space.

I’ve gone from bulging baggage to svelte carry-on, thanks to the cubes.

The wallet you’re carrying may attract unwanted attention.

If you have a new passport and are ready to break it in on an international trip, you’ll want a passport holder that fits your lifestyle.

Throw in a few clips and a compression cube, and you’ll travel like a pro. |