The Best Dams + Rivers for Swimming near Cape Town

Cape Town is dotted with a refreshing array of amazing dams, reservoirs and rivers where you can enjoy scenic swims and exhilarating dips – sans the sand and the crowds. And considering the high temperatures in summer, there’s hardly a better way to beat the heat than plunging into a crystal-clear rock pool (made all the more rewarding if you have to hike to reach it). These are our favourite wild swims in nature.

Silvermine Reservoir

Where Between Tokai and Noordhoek
Distance from CT 40 minutes
The large, glistening reservoir is open to everybody, including your pooches (on the south side only), but there are no lifeguards on duty so swimming is at your own risk. The water is a little warmer than the ocean, and it’s a favourite with open-water swimmers for training. There’s a 1km boardwalk trail around the dam (wheelchair and pram friendly) and picture-perfect picnic spots dotted amid the trees and fynbos.
Good to know Entry is cash only; ID or passport required.
Dog friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R403 for a year), obtainable from the SANParks website or from the Tokai Wild Card Sales Office.
Gate times Gate 1: Daily, 8am – 4pm (May – August); 7am – 5pm (September – April)
Gate 2: Daily, 8am – 6pm
Cost R44 (adult); R22 (child 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals: R90 (adult); R45 (child)
International visitors: R200 (adult); R100 (child)
Contact 021 780 9002 (gate)
TMNP Tokai office: 021 712 7471, [email protected]
Where to find it Silvermine Nature Reserve, Gate 1, Ou Kaapse Weg (M3), between Tokai/Steenberg and Noordhoek

Krom River

Where Worcester/Paarl
Distance from CT About 1 hour
Limietberg Nature Reserve is tucked away in the Du Toitskloof Mountains of the Winelands, offering fynbos-covered slopes and dramatic kloofs. Here, the fairly easy out-and-back 7km Krom River Trail leads through riverine forest and past deep, translucent rockpools. The ultimate destination is not one but two waterfalls – both with fabulous plunge pools clear enough to snorkel in. The water’s ice-cold, but that will probably be a relief after the hike. If you want maximum sunshine at the pools, make an early start in the morning.
Good to know Climbing between the first and second waterfalls is challenging as the path is steep and slippery.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Gate times Daily, 8am – 6pm
Cost CapeNature permit: R55 (adults); R35 (children)
Contact 087 087 8250; [email protected] (permit bookings)
021 871 1535 (Limietberg Office)
021 937 0300 (Mountain Rescue)
Where to find it Du Toitskloof (parking area first road to the left after the Worcester exit of the Huguenot Tunnel), via N1 from Paarl

Maalgat

Where Cederberg
Distance from CT 3.5 hours
The Cederberg is a land like few others – with vast, silent landscapes and rock formations that look like the remains of an ancient civilisation. Among the many natural wonders to be found here is Maalgat (aka “Hippo Pool”), a natural swimming pool that is large and deep (don’t try to touch the bottom, you won’t reach it!), with natural rock platforms from which you can leap into the cool water. It can be accessed via a 30-minute hike downstream from Sanddrif camping site.
Need to know Permits must be obtained from Sanddrif reception during office hours, or they can be arranged by phone. Permits are not issued to day visitors during school holidays and long weekends; guests need to be signed in at Sanddrif Private Holiday Resort.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves or at Sanddrif.
Opening times Office hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm; Saturday, 8am – 5pm; Sunday & public holidays, 9am – 12pm, 4pm – 6pm
Cost R60 (adults + children)
Contact 027 482 2825 / 044 004 0060, [email protected]
Where to find it Sanddrif Private Holiday Resort, Dwarsrivier Farm, Cederberg

Bainskloof

Where Worcester
Distance from CT 2 hours
A number of rivers meander through the magnificent Bainskloof (part of the Limietberg Nature Reserve), offering tempting waterside hikes. The 8km Rockhopper Trail, as its name suggests, makes its way along the boulder-strewn Witte River past several swimming spots. The 8km Bobbejaans River Trail leads past mountain pools to a waterfall. The Happy Valley Trail, despite being the longest at 9km, is the easiest, and heads to the fabulous Junction Pools (where two rivers meet).
Good to know Tweede Tol is a campsite on the Bainskloof Pass, super-popular for its instant access to swimming holes in the boulder-strewn Witte River. Bring a picnic or braai stuff to make a day of it (firewood is sold at the gate). To access the nearby Wolwekloof River’s swimming spots, you’ll need to stay overnight.
Need to know Hiking is limited to 24 people per day, and booking is essential. Numbers are also limited at Tweede Tol (120 per day), so get there early.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Gate times 8am – 6pm
Cost Permit: R55 (adult); R35 (child)
Contact 087 087 8250; [email protected] (permit bookings)
021 871 1535 (Limietberg Office)
021 937 0300 (Mountain Rescue)
Where to find it Various trailheads on Bainskloof Pass (R301), via R43 from Worcester

Crystal Pools Waterfall

Where Gordon’s Bay
Distance from CT 1.5 to 2 hours
A 6km hiking trail through a gorge in the Steenbras Nature Reserve culminates in a wonderful waterfall, with a series of icy-cold rock pools about 10 – 15 minutes from each other along the way where you can cool down during your walk, making it well worth the slog. It’s doable for anyone who is reasonably fit, and a challenge for those who are not. The half-day hike takes you through rocky but generally flat terrain, with no shade. It is quite a trek, so make sure you have plenty of snacks, water and energy to get there – and be aware that there are baboons in the area, so keep your food well stashed. A maximum of 50 people per day are allowed, so try to book as early as possible.
Need to know There is no entry after 2pm, so come early.
The trail is only open from 1 November to 30 April. Bookings should be done via email, at least two working days before your visit.
Dog-friendly? No
Gate times 7.30am – 4pm
Cost R90 per person
Contact Permits: [email protected]
Emergency number: 021 480 7700
Where to find it Steenbras Nature Reserve, via N2 and R44

Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area

Where Porterville
Distance from CT 1.5 to 2 hours
This hikers’ paradise is a rugged, unspoilt landscape of interesting rock formations, exquisite fynbos – the disas are in bloom in summer – and ancient rock art. There are plenty of places for a refreshing dip in the clear pools of the Kliphuis River. Protea Pool and Disa Pool are short, easier walks from the parking area; De Hel (pictured), one of the largest natural pools in the Cape, is on the much longer De Tronk trail and harder to access via a very steep path.
Need to know Booking and permits are required (a maximum of 12 people per trail). Be properly prepared for hiking, with water, food, sunblock, maps and warm clothing (just in case). There is no cellphone reception in the reserve.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Gate times 7.30am – 6pm (last entry 2pm)
Cost Permits: R85 (adult); R55 (child)
Contact 087 087 8250, [email protected] (permit bookings)
087 087 4047 (reserve office)
082 820 6638 (emergency)
Where to find it Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area, via N1, R44, R365 and Dasklip Pass/Cardouw turn-off

Beaverlac

Where Porterville
Distance from CT 2.5 to 3 hours
At Beaverlac, in the Groot Winterhoek Mountains, you’ll find a beautiful wilderness area where rivers have channelled their way through rock to form deep, crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. There are various hiking trails to explore, taking you to different pools.
Need to know Beaverlac is not open to day visitors, so you will have to book an overnight stay in the campsite, or in one of the rustic cabins, in order to hike and swim.
Dog-friendly? Yes, in the campsite, but not in the rock pools where people are swimming.
Contact 022 931 2945; [email protected] (campsite); [email protected] (cabins)
Where to find it Beaverlac Campsite, Porterville, via N7

22 Waterfalls

Where Porterville
Distance from CT 2 hours
Hidden on a private farm and nature reserve at the foot of the Olifantsrivier Mountains is a hiking trail that leads up through a forested ravine alongside a stream. All along this path are waterfalls of various sizes and heights – once you get about halfway, the pools get deeper and better for swimming in. The waterfalls are spring-fed all year round, so do not require rain (although they are even more spectacular after it has rained). The hiking trail, which is marked with yellow stripes, is an adventure, with wooden ladder-bridges and lots of scrambling up boulders and through trees, so it requires a certain level of fitness and balance. But the reward of standing under a gushing waterfall or three, or six, is worth it.
Need to know Booking is required, with a maximum of 20 day visitors/hikers permitted. For unlimited access, you need to book a stay in the campsite or cottages.
Dog-friendly? No
Gate times Monday – Sunday, 8am – 4pm
Cost R75 per person
Contact 022 125 0583, [email protected]
Where to find it Waterval Private Nature Reserve, off the R44, Porterville

Breede River

Where Swellendam
Distance from CT 3 hours
The Breede River flows east from the Ceres mountains down to the Indian Ocean, watering the famous Winelands of the Breede River Valley along the way. The Bontebok National Park, nestled in the Langeberg near the historic town of Swellendam, provides the easiest access to the river. Head to Die Stroom: it’s a great spot for a picnic or braai on the grassy, shady banks and safe swimming in the calm waters (and canoeing or even fishing if you have a permit).
Need to know Bring your own food and beverages – there is no shop or restaurant – and your own braai grid. The park’s rest camp, Lang Elsie’s Kraal, is next to the river too, offering chalets and campsites and its own river swimming spot.
Dog-friendly? No
Opening times Daily, 6am – 6pm
Cost Conservation fee: R61 (adult); R30 (child)
SADC nationals with passport: R94 (adult); R48 (child)
International visitors: R206 (adult); R80 (child)
Contact 028 514 2735, [email protected]
Where to find it Production Street, off the N2, Swellendam

Suicide Gorge

Where Grabouw
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Recommended only for hardy and experienced hikers/kloofers, the Suicide Gorge Trail in the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve takes you high into the mountains… and then down through the titular, adrenaline-pumping gorge. Much of the 8-hour, 17km route involves slip-sliding your way along a natural waterslide, and at points you’ll need to leap off cliffs – some as high as 14 metres – into the pools below. You’ll need a permit (only 30 people per day; age 12 and older), a guide who has previous experience of the trail, and to bring fitness and courage!
Need to know Bookings are essential. You’ll need to provide the name and contact details of your guide when making your booking. You need to start this route early, no later than 9am.
Good to know The nearby Riviersonderend Trail (14.4km/7–8 hours) offers a similar challenge on the same river but with lower drops – the highest being seven metres.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Gate times Daily, from 7.30am; no later than 9am (1 November – 30 April)
Cost R450 (permit)
Contact 087 087 8250; [email protected]
Where to find it Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, Nuweberg entrance, Viljoen’s Pass, off R321, Elgin-Grabouw

Palmiet River

Where Near Kleinmond
Distance from CT 1 hour 45 minutes
The Palmiet River feeds the apple farms of Elgin-Grabouw before heading to the sea near Kleinmond. Your best point of access is the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. The easy, flat Palmiet River Trail (good for all ages) ambles for 10km from the parking area along the pristine river, with designated spots for swimming, to an area called The Beach – not the estuary outside Kleinmond, but a clearing of white sand alongside the river, good for a picnic and another dip.
Need to know It is recommended that you start the hike no later than 2pm.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Cost Permit: R65 (adult); R45 (child)
Gate times 7.30am – 7pm (6pm in winter)
Contact 087 087 8250, [email protected] (permit bookings)
087 288 0499 (reserve office)
082 783 8585 (emergency number)
Where to find it Kogelberg Nature Reserve, via N2 to Kleinmond, then the R44Elgin River Lodge

Elgin River Lodge

Where Elgin
Distance from CT 1.5 hour
For direct access to a flat and calm section of the Palmiet River, just step off the lawns into the water at Elgin River Lodge. This 100-hectare apple farm has 2.5 kilometres of river frontage, and offers a comfortable day of water-based fun for city slickers – with access to a restaurant, canoeing, tubing, waterskiing and even a river barge for a sundowner cruise. Perhaps best of all, there’s a zipline into the water. Day visitors are welcome (booking essential), except on Saturdays. It’s so idyllic, you may be tempted to book a log cabin for a couple of days.
Dog-friendly? No
Gate times Sunday – Friday, 10am – 4pm
Cost R100 (day visitors)
Where to find it Mofam Farm, Appletiser Road (off Viljoenshoof Road and N2), Elgin

Fernkloof Three Dams

Where Hermanus
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
The Drie Damme Trail is quite a steep climb but a short 2km walk through the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, in the Kleinriver Mountains behind Hermanus. Your reward will be a swim in an icy dam, wonderful coastal views and a dazzling array of fynbos flora. For a bit of variety, you walk along the dam wall and there’s a platform/tower from which to jump into the water (great fun for the young at heart). There are footpaths to the two other dams, but most people choose to chill out at the first and biggest dam.
Need to know It’s not accessed via the main entrance to Fernkloof but from a parking area and trailhead on First Avenue (look for the gate and sign “Three Dams”).
Dog-friendly? No
Gate times Daily, sunrise to sunset
Cost Free (but consider making a donation at Fernkloof Reserve’s visitors’ centre)
Where to find it First Avenue, off Reservoir Road, Hermanus

Klein River

Where Stanford
Distance from CT 2 hours
The peaceful river passes through the Akkedisberg Mountains and lush meadows of Stanford on its way to the estuary (Hermanus Lagoon), its calm waters beckoning weary travellers to lay down their loads and forget about the world for a while. The bottom of King Street is particularly convenient as an access point due to the nearby shaded lawns that make for an ideal picnic spot. The Stanford Wandelpad (walking trail) meanders along the river – a map is available at the local tourism bureau.
Dog-friendly? Yes
Gate times Always open
Cost Free for swimming
Contact 028 341 0340, [email protected]
Where to find it King Street, Stanford, via N2 and R43

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

Where Stellenbosch
Distance from CT 1 hour
A 15-minute drive from the centre of town, this lush reserve holds some of the most stunning scenery in the Winelands. It offers four fairly challenging hiking trails, with many rockpools to dip into along the way. The two-hour Tweede Waterval Trail heads (as the packaging suggests) to a waterfall – actually, to two cascades. The invigorating six-hour Swartboskloof Trail ascends to the top of Kurktrekkernek, and then back down past a waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip. Make sure you start before 2pm, so you can be back before the reserve closes.
Need to know Jonkershoek permits can be booked via the MTO website or at the MTO gate on the day.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Gate times 7am – 4pm (from 8am in winter); gates close 6pm
Cost Permit: R70 (adult); R50 (child)
Contact 087 087 4118 (reserve office)
082 467 0405 (emergency)
Where to find it Jonkershoek Road, Stellenbosch

Paradyskloof Waterfall

Where Stellenbosch
Distance from CT 45 minutes
If you fancy sitting under a waterfall, letting the water splash over you as you gaze out over a fantastic view of the Winelands all the way to False Bay and Table Mountain, this entry-level hike through the pine-scented Eden Forest will reward you. There’s no deep pool for submerged swimming – more like splash pools and the cascade shower – but it will still be fantastic on a hot day. The 5km hike on the slopes of the Helderberg follows the Eerste River and crosses it twice at shallow points; it also leads through fields of fynbos and beautiful proteas.
Need to know The waterfall is best after it has rained.
Dog-friendly? Yes, on a leash
Gate times Daily, 7.30am – 8pm
Cost Free
Contact 021 808 8160/8119
Where to find it Eden Forest, Paradyskloof Way, Stellenbosch

The Berg River

Where Paarl
Distance from CT 50 minutes
The Berg River Resort is a clean, family-friendly venue that’s ideal for swimming and leisurely canoeing in the Winelands. Boats, canoes and tubes can be rented on site. If river-dipping is not your thing, there are two swimming pools at the resort: an Olympic-sized pool and a smaller one that’s shallow enough for toddlers to splash around in, as well as a waterslide.
Dog-friendly? No
Gate times Daily, 8am – 6pm
Cost R150 per person; R150 per car (school holiday periods only)
Contact 021 007 1852, [email protected]
Where to find it Berg River Resort, Southern Paarl, on R45 via N1

Matroosberg

Where Near Ceres
Distance from CT 2 hours
Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve is famous for snow in winter, but come here in summertime and you can spend a day discovering a series of rock pools and waterfalls on the upper slopes of the mountain. The smooth, flat rocks around the largest pool are perfect for sliding down on your bum into the water, and just as good for sunbathing. It’s a 1.5-hour hike to the Crystal Pools (active hikers reach the pools in 45 minutes), or with a 4×4 bakkie you can drive to the foot of the mountain in 20 minutes and take a 10-minute hike to the first pool.
Good to know If you want to stay over, there are campsites and several cabins. To be closest to the pools, book the off-grid Solitaire mountain cabin.
Dog-friendly? Yes, R50 per dog
Gate times Daily, 8am – 4pm
Cost R110 (adults); R90 (child, under 13 years old)
Contact 073 914 0885, [email protected]
Where to find it Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve, Erfdeel Farm, Bo-Swaarmoed Road (off R46), near Ceres

Duiwelsbos Waterfall

Where Swellendam
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Those wanting an incredible forest-and-waterfall experience will find it at Marloth Nature Reserve. Beneath the soaring Langeberg Mountains, it protects a few pockets of rare old-growth, indigenous forest reminiscent of the Knysna Forests. Within it is a moderate 1.8km hike through cool, shady forest alongside a river (with pools for dipping), which takes you to Duiwelsbos Waterfall and its magical pool. It’s mostly uphill, with the aid of log stairs. To make a day of it, you can combine the Duiwelsbos route with the longer Plaat Loop, which gives you access to additional mountain streams to swim in.
Need to know Watch out for baboons, and keep your picnic provisions hidden.
• You will need to get a permit for hiking – at the entrance gate or from CapeNature.
Dog-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Gate times Daily, sunrise to sunset
Cost Permits: R55 (adults); R35 (children)
Contact 087 087 8250; [email protected] (permit bookings)
087 087 3039/3883 (reserve)
Where to find it Marloth Nature Reserve, R60 (off the N2), near Swellendam

Important note Swimming in remote, wilderness areas is at your own risk – don’t go in the water unless you’re a confident swimmer. Take safety precautions, as crime and accidents do happen. Always go in a group, not alone. Contact the parks or places to ensure conditions are suitable before visiting. Always be aware of the weather – while you may set off on a sunny day for a hike and a swim, conditions can change quickly in the Cape! There are also adventure-tour companies that offer guided trips to some of the above-mentioned spots.

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