Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve

Phophonyane protects the gorge of a river that comes down through the northern highlands in a long run of cascades rather than one drop, with indigenous forest along the banks and aloes and proteas on the slopes above. Paths follow the water up and down through the reserve and swimming is possible in several of the pools. Lodges and tents are set in the trees. Birdlife in the forest is the main draw.

Background

The reserve covers 600 hectares near Piggs Peak. Footpaths lead through the Gobolondlo forest to winding streams and on to its main feature, the Phophonyane Falls, which are 80 metres high. The falls formed on a steep band of exposed gneiss. Across this stretch the Phophonyane River drops some 240 metres within 2 kilometres. Rocks exposed at the waterfall have been dated at 3.55 billion years, which places them among the oldest rocks in the world.

Source: Wikipedia, "Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve"

Highlights

• The cascades - the river coming down in a long series of falls rather than one.
• The riverine forest - indigenous woodland along the banks.
• The pools - places where the river slows enough to swim.
• The forest birds - the species drawn to the wooded gorge.

When to go

September to April is the wet season when the falls run strongest. Winter flow drops considerably. Paths are slippery after rain.

What to expect

The falls are cascades rather than a single spectacular drop. Flow in the dry winter is much reduced. The reserve is small and a day covers the paths.

Nearby

Piggs Peak is south, and Bulembu is west.

Key facts