Leopard's Kloof Waterfall

About Leopard's Kloof Waterfall

Leopard's Kloof Waterfall is an exhilarating, world-class hidden gem tucked within the mountain folds of the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden. Unlike the flat boardwalks of neighboring trails, this rewarding 3km route offers an authentic, moderately technical hiking adventure that winds upward through a dense, primeval indigenous forest. To preserve this fragile valley ecosystem where wild leopards still leave claw marks on tree trunks at night, access is strictly regulated via a gated key system managed at the garden reception desk. The trail treats hikers to dynamic river crossings, pristine rock pools, and a thrilling final scramble up built-in wooden ladders to reach the base of a spectacular three-tiered waterfall. Framed by towering mountain walls that burst with rare Red Disa orchids in midsummer, this strictly smoke-free, pet-free, and swimming-restricted sanctuary is an absolute bucket-list destination for active travelers equipped with sturdy hiking shoes.