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Howick Falls, Pietermaritzburg is an attractive falls in the small town of Howick, 24 kilometers north of Pietermaritzburg. Howick lies in the Natal Midlands on the Midlands Meander. The Umgeni River plunges 300 feet over the cliffs of Howick to form the Howick Falls. Today Howick Falls, Pietermaritzburg is one of the most spectacular sights in the region.
The impressive 119 meters Howick Falls is the most striking feature in the Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve. The falls attracts thousands of visitors every year. The Howick Falls was in all probability discovered by European explorers in the early 1800s. After its discovery many people are said to have been swept over by the Howick Falls, especially in the founding days of the province, as some people thought the easiest place to cross the river was just above the water fall.
The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve, where the falls can be found contains more than 200 species of birds, as well as giraffes, zebras, wildebeests and many species of antelope. There are several hiking trails along the river. Accommodation for visitors is available near the Howick falls that are easily accessible for everyone. The falls fall some 90 meters and the view from the top is very outstanding. For the more energetic Howick offers some worthwhile short trails. The town also offers a good selection of antiques, arts and crafts.
Hikes and Trails in Howick
Gorge Walk: One can start this walk through the thick undergrowth on the stone steps from the Gorge Walk and wind ones way down to the pool, at the bottom of the Howick Falls. One can come across the trickling Karkloof Spruit and see it meet the Umgeni River on the way to the base of the fall. The walk there and back takes an hour or two.
The Umgeni River Trail starts at the Scout Hall and winds along the Umgeni River past the Mills Falls area, to just beyond the Umgeni Gardens Flats in Oakleigh Drive where the trail ends. This trail takes roughly an hour.
Beacon Hill Trail: This walk starts from the clearing at the end of Lakeview Road and goes up Beacon Hill to the top. The walk takes about an hour.
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