The Uvongo Waterfall on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast plunges 23 meters into a 27-meter-deep lagoon. Its name originates from the Zulu word vungu, describing the sound of wind or a waterfall echoing in a gorge.
Natural Features
- The drop: The water drops 23 meters directly into the river’s tidal lagoon right next to the Indian Ocean.
- Lagoon depth: The force of the falling water carved out a pool roughly 27 meters deep, making it one of South Africa’s deepest lagoons.
- Rarity: It is one of a very small number of worldwide waterfalls that drop directly at or near a marine coastline.
The Uvongo Waterfall hike features a short walk along the Uvongo River Nature Reserve path and Uvongo Beach, leading to a spectalur 23 metre waterfall that pluges into one of South Africe’s deepest lagoons. It is an easy, family-friendly outing rather than a long-distance hike
Trail Overview
- Distance: Short walks ranging from 1 to 3 kilometers depending on whether you explore the reserve trails or just walk from the main beach parking.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate; suitable for families and casual walkers.
- Location: Uvongo Beach, right along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, just north of Margate