Tugela Falls, Waterfall in Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa.
The Tugela Falls cascade down five distinct tiers across the Drakensberg escarpment, reaching a total height of 948 meters with multiple water streams.
The name derives from the Zulu word 'Thukela,' meaning sudden, which early inhabitants gave to the river due to its abrupt descent from the plateau.
The waterfall forms part of the Royal Natal National Park, where local Zulu communities maintain traditional practices and share their heritage with visitors.
Two hiking trails lead to the falls: a challenging route from The Sentinel car park and an easier path through Tugela Gorge from Royal Natal National Park.
During winter months, the water flowing over Tugela Falls frequently freezes, creating massive ice formations along the rock face of the escarpment.
Location: KwaZulu-Natal
Elevation above the sea: 2,925 m
Height: 411 m
Width: 15 m
Part of: Tugela River
GPS coordinates: -28.75227,28.89462
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:07
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