Wagendrift Dam, Arch dam in Estcourt, South Africa

Wagendrift Dam is a multi-arch dam on the Bushman's River, upstream of Estcourt in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Completed in 1963, it impounds 55.9 million cubic metres of water and is visible from the N3 national road where that highway crosses the river.

The dam was completed in 1963, taking its name from a historic ford used by transport wagons traveling toward the Witwatersrand during the gold rush era. Its construction marked a major shift in how the river valley was developed and managed for human use.

The dam takes its name from a drift, or ford, where ox-wagons crossed the Bushman's River on the route to the Witwatersrand goldfields. The reservoir behind it now supplies drinking water to Estcourt, and the N3 national road crosses the river within sight of the dam wall.

Visitors should check on current water conditions before arriving and note that fishing may require a permit. The shoreline areas are fairly easy to access, though it is worth confirming local conditions beforehand.

Wagendrift Dam holds 55.9 million cubic metres of water and is clearly visible from the N3 national road where it crosses the Bushman's River. Its hazard potential is ranked high (3).