A hiker's guide to walking the Krom River

How to get there, best time to go, parking tips & permit prices

Last updated: Wednesday, 8 October 2025

Ask any hiker about their favourite trail outside of the city and Krom River almost always makes the list. Inside the pristine 102 000-hectare Limietberg Nature Reserve, the trail winds through river valleys and indigenous forest, leading to two spectacular waterfalls and a string of crystal-clear pools.

This guide covers everything you need to know, like when to go, permits, how to get there and why this is one of the most rewarding day hikes near Cape Town.

It’s a 1 hour and 15 minute drive from Cape Town. Image: @cococunha

WHY IT'S WORTH THE DRIVE

The reserve is a biodiversity wonderland home to a dazzling array of fauna and flora. Frogs gracefully dive into water, redfin fish swim in the smaller pools, and barn swallows swoop overhead.  You might even see a baboon, although they rarely make an appearance despite inhabiting the area. 

Once you reach the waterfall, it’s easy to spot the Cape’s famous red Disas and white Calla lilies brightening the riverbanks. You might hear Cape sugarbirds and sweet Protea canaries, which bring flickers of movement and sound to the otherwise still valley.

The icy water is especially refreshing to swim in on a hot summer’s day. Image: @kuldahar_

TWO WATERFALLS & PRISTINE ROCK POOLS

The trail is a 7km out-and-back trail that takes five hours, depending on how long you linger at the swimming spots. It hugs the river from the start, crossing it several times as it winds deeper into the valley before veering into the kloof with views of the dramatic Du Toitskloof mountain. 

The first waterfall is a showstopper. It’s a wide, high cascade that spills into a deep plunge pool surrounded by smooth boulders. On hot days, hikers gather here to swim, sunbathe and snack. The natural ledges make it a popular spot to jump off the rocks or simply float in the pool. 

If you’re up to a challenge, a short but tricky 10-metre climb (helped by a sturdy chain ladder) leads you to the second, more secluded waterfall. It drops into another pristine pool tucked deep into a natural amphitheatre.

No dogs are allowed. Image: @travelling_gypsy

WHEN TO HIKE KROM RIVER

This is a summer hike, best done between November and April when the weather is warm and the pools are inviting. While the trail is open during winter, the river swells and crossings become dangerous. 

The trail is mostly flat and manageable for families with young kids, although it does have some rockier sections. Many parents bring as young as three years old, stopping at the first waterfall for swims and snacks before heading back. 

The section beyond that (up to the second waterfall) involves a climb which can be tricky for small children. You can start your hike as early as 6am to avoid crowds and have more time at the pools.

Other hiking trails on the nature reserve include the Bobbejaans River Trail, Happy Valley River Trail, Eland River Trail and the Rockhopper River Trail. Image: @travelling_gypsy

KROM RIVER PERMIT & WHAT TO BRING

You’ll need a CapeNature permit to hike the trail. Permits are limited to 50 guests per day and can be bought at the reserve office or booked ahead of time through Cape Nature’s website. 

You’ll also need to pay an additional R50 toll fee when you pass through the Huguenot Tunnel. 

Pack a swimming costume, towel, sunscreen, plenty of water and snacks. Goggles and a snorkel can be fun to use in the deeper pools but be sure to wear sturdy shoes since some of the rocks and river crossings can be slippery.

The Cape's red Disas. Image: @jody.alexander_

DIRECTIONS FROM CAPE TOWN NATIONAL ROAD

From Cape Town, take the N1 towards Worcester all the way through the Huguenot Tunnel. About 700 metres after exiting the tunnel, take the first road on your left to the parking area. Here’s where the trail begins. 

While there are many lovely hiking trails, Krom River remains one of the most beautiful, if you’re looking to make a day out of it.

Please don’t leave any valuables in your car as parking is at your own risk. Image: @mrmlonyeni_toyou

HIKE KROM RIVER

Limietberg Nature Reserve is open: 8am to 6pm
Find it: 27 Mill Street, Lemoenkloof, Paarl
Cost: R50 per adult and R30 per child
Book: Via CapeNature
Contact on: 087 087 8250 or email reservation.alert@capenature.co.za

By Khadeeja Adams

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You’ll find hiking trails and an accommodation special at Wolfkop Nature Reserve.

Make plans for this weekend. 

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