Gxalingenwa Waterfall Trail
Location : Gxalingenwa Waterfall Trail, Kwa Sani Local Municipality, KZN
Time : 3hr round trip
Distance : 5.5km
Elevation Gain: 133m (one direction)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
While the Sani Pass area is widely known for its winter snowfall and rugged 4x4 road, it also hides a quieter gem: the Gxalingenwa Trail. This route offers something for every level of hiker, ranging from a gentle 5 km round trip to the waterfall, to a more demanding 24 km return hike reaching the Gxalingenwa Cave. The trail is perfect for those seeking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools, framed by indigenous trees and fauna. For those unfamiliar with the area, baboons rule these parts; caution is advised to keep an eye out for flying rocks and solo female hikers (baboons are notoriously sexist/unperturbed by females).
The hike is moderately challenging, with 3–4 river crossings that are usually manageable via rock-hopping, but in the wet summer months, you might find yourself wading through ankle-deep water. Hazards include soggy shoes, slippery moss-covered rocks, and the ever-present risk of losing your footing, so caution, good grip, as well as momentum, are key. Be aware that the signal is virtually nonexistent along most of the route.
What To Pack
- Sturdy hiking shoes - there are some rocky bits and small boulders you’ll have to climb over
- Warm fleece - the waterfall and river fall into shade from noon/early afternoon, the water is chilly, and the walk out is in shade till you hit the sunny parts
- Water - Stay Hydrated!
- Hat and sunblock
- Hiking poles - (optional) for those who are a bit wobbly on their feet, especially when it comes to river crossings
- Swimming Costume - if you plan to swim (with others present who you may not be entirely close to)
Tips & Tricks
Next time I would pack a towel, despite being in Winter and swearing it's too cold to swim if you're anything like me and can't give up a beautiful opportunity, you will certainly be tempted to have a dip even if it does only last all about 5 seconds (after 2 minutes of counting down to 3 to jump in). A ziplock bag or dry bag would also be in my bag next time, it will save passing essential items back and forth between you and you’re walking partners.
We parked on the side of the road at the start of the trail and were fine; however, it is my opinion that in South Africa, you take valuables with you or hide them where they are out of sight.
- Water Bottle - The river water is delicious, and the first river-crossing is 10 minutes on flat ground, so I recommend filling your waterbottle at the first river crossing.
- Towel – Trust me, you’ll regret not having one, especially in winter. The waterfall’s icy plunge might only last five seconds, but it’s absolutely worth it—even if it takes two minutes of countdown courage to jump in.
Optional Extras :
- Towel – Trust me, you’ll regret not having one, especially in winter.
- Ziplock or dry bag – Handy for keeping phones and snacks safe during river crossings, without the fuss of passing them between walking partners.
For those who’d prefer not to navigate solo, Sani Lodge offers guided versions of the hike, which is ideal if you're unfamiliar with the area or prefer a more relaxed, informative experience. For those confident in their navigation skills, hiking passes are R60pp.
Below is a GPX track to the waterfall. Note that this route initially ascends to the top of the waterfall and then back down to the swimming area. Alternatively, there is an easier path that is slightly hidden in the overgrown grass that continues right (towards the swimming area) rather than going up.
My Gear
While I forgot to pack a hat ! I do wish I had taken my Reegs & Ronnie hat (I left it at the lodge). It's a super comfortable, lightweight, breathable hat, designed by local Cape Townian runners - especially since it would’ve matched my blue outfit for the day
These shoes have been such a game changer ! Especially for a bit of a cluts like me, I have a tendency to slide and trip, however these shoes make me feel like a mountain goat with precision on the toes and super grippy rubber. Good shoes with some grip are advised due to the little scrambles, sandy bits and rock hopping.
While the sun was warm and toasty while walking, the shady sections became quite chilly with icy winds blowing off the white Sani-Pass, and after a veeerry chilly swim in the waterfalls pool, I was extremely thankful for my downie and warmed up quite quickly while walking back.
I am a particularly bad hydrator - buuuut since this isn't a long hike about 1L of water would be enough. Hydration vests can come in very handy which can carry either a water resovoir/bladder as well as have space for items like you're phone or some snacks if you don't want to pack a big bag.
