The Leopard’s Kloof Waterfall hike is located inside the Harold Porter Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay. It is a relatively easy hike through a beautiful mountain valley with three stunning waterfalls along the way. Over the years the Krom Rivier Hike in the Du Toitskloof Mountains has become increasing popular. It is an absolutely stunning spot and is still very much worth the visit: Krom Rivier Hike. However, if you are looking for a an equally breathtaking waterfall hike which is still a little bit of a hidden gem, then definitely check out Leopard’s Kloof Waterfall Hike.
Details:
Start Location: Harold Porter Botanical Garden
Distance: 3km
Duration: 1hr15 walking, add in about 30 mins for chilling at the waterfall
Difficulty: Easy
Conservation fee: Permits cost R55 per adult, R50 key deposit
*keys to the gate will not be issued after 1:00 pm and must be returned by 16:00. Keys are the property of the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden. The deposit of R50.00 on the key is forfeited if keys are handed in late and this money is used to maintain the trail. Please remember to lock the gate behind you on both entering and leaving the kloof. Please note that the number of keys available is limited so try get here early to secure a key for your hiking group. There is one key per group.
The Route:
The Leopard’s Kloof Trail starts in Harold Porter Botanical Garden which is a must-visit in and of itself. The gardens are stunning with beautiful fynbos beds.
To start the trail you’ll walk straight up through the garden following the Leopard’s Kloof signs, then veering to the right towards the end. You will then reach a gate at the top of the the Garden labeled Leopard’s Kloof.
Here you’ll need the key you got from the office to unlock and access the trail. Please ensure you lock the gate behind you.
The rest of the route is very easy to follow with a clear path as well as yellow arrows painted on rocks indicating the way. There is a gradual incline on the way up as well as a few rocky river crossings, but nothing too challenging. After the first waterfall there are a few wooden ladders you need to climb to get to the second and third waterfalls. Proceed with caution in winter when these might be slippery.
There are three beautiful waterfalls along the Leopard’s Kloof Waterfall Trail. The final waterfall had a lot of space to sit so bring along your snacks or picnic for a beautiful lunch stop on the hike.
The route is an out and back trail so you can just go back down the way you came. Enjoy the beautiful views as you walk back down through the beautiful kloof.
If you’re looking for more hikes to do in the Cape Town surrounding area then check out my guides to: Krom Rivier Hike, Groot Winterhoek Hike, Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve Hike, Crystals Pools Hike , Bainskloof Waterfall Hike or Panorama Hike in Jonkershoek.
If you’re looking for some where to stay in the surrounding area check out Hidden Stream Cottage or Nivenia Beach House in Betty’s Bay if you’re a couple. For larger groups check out Jock’s Place (on the sea) or Sunrise Betty’s Bay.
