About Mangeni Falls
This rather beautiful and remote waterfall deserves greater regard. Surrounded by open grassland and rural settlements it is seldom visited, unless as part of an organised tour of the Battlefields, or the Southern KwaZulu-Natal birding route.
It was here that Lord Chelmsford set up camp after the Battle of Isandlwana, during which he lost half his men.
Did you know? Reaching the waterfall is not easy. Don't try it in an ordinary sedan as the gravel road can take serious strain after the rains, which is also the time you will want to head there as the falls are at their best.
Whilst the setting may be rather pastoral and the roads leading to the fall unsophisticated, the falls themselves are incredibly beautiful. During the rainy season the water falls from both sides of the gorge, tumbling over the eroded sandstone lip of the impressive drop into an implausibly small pool below.
The waterfall's backdrop is one of mountains, and more often than not blue skies, against which this tributary of the White Umfolozi River heads west of Babanango through the Mangeni River Valley. Down in the gorge below are various wooded areas. This is one of the tallest waterfalls you will see in the area; the Tugela Falls excluded.
The bald ibis roosts near the falls, whilst Verreaux's eagle breeds on the cliffs just below the falls, along with the common kestrel, and lanner falcon. During summer the black swifts move in to breed and their calls fill the gorge. Scan the surrounding grasslands and you may well see a secretary bird, white storks or the long-tailed widow bird.
The Southern KwaZulu-Natal birding route suggest that from Babanango you take the R68 between Melmoth and Dundee (passing Isandlwana Lodge) and turn left at the sign marked 'Qudeni'. After 15 km on this gravel road, turn right at a sign for 'Mangeni'. After 6.5 km take a left and head towards a few buildings in the distance. Cross a concrete bridge, and turn right onto a track (it's immediately after the bridge). Park and pop into the local police station to let them know you're visiting the falls. They will point you in the right direction.
But it is probably a better idea to join a tour of the area and see it as part of a group. Dundee tour guides sometimes offer 'free outings' that include the falls.
Need to Know
WhereMangeni Falls, West of Babanago, Zululand, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours
OvernightStay in Rorkes Drift Accommodation, KwaZulu Natal
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inIn the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Rorkes Drift
Kingdom Eco Reserve
Offering a comfortable and affordable safari experience on a full-board basis, the Kingdom Eco Reserve is a Halaal game reserve located in a pres...
Umzinyathi House
Situated in the Battlefields of KwaZulu Natal, Umzinyathi House offers self catering accommodation for six guests. This area is well known for to...
Rorke's Drift Lodge
Rorke's Drift Lodge lies a mere five kilometres from the actual battlefield of Rorke's Drift and is an unspoilt treasure hidden in amongst a worl...
Rorke's Drift Hotel
We welcome you to a new experience in hospitality and comfort, in a stimulating environment. Our architecture and magnificent views will give you...
Fugitives' Drift Lodge
The spectacular Fugitives' Drift property, a Natural Heritage Site, overlooks both Isandlwana and Oskarsberg at Rorke's Drift. Fugitives' Drift L...
Fugitives' Drift Guest House
The spectacular Fugitives' Drift property, a Natural Heritage Site, overlooks both Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift, and includes the site where Lieu...
Isandlwana Lodge
Isandlwana Lodge offers splendid accommodation, tours of Anglo Zulu and Anglo Boer battle sites. Guests may also enjoy photographic safaris, walk...
Things to do in the area
Isandlwana Battlefields Tour
Hear in gripping detail the background to the Anglo-Zulu War as you are driven to Isandlwana in the early morning. Sit on the battlefield, mesmer...
Rorke's Drift Battlefields Tour
Listen at sunset to the famous story of Rorke's Drift, where 139 British soldiers were attacked by 4,000 Zulu warriors, winning more Victoria Cro...
Zulu Homestead Visit
When staying at Isibindi Zulu Lodge a separate day trip to a Zulu Homestead gives guests a rare chance to experience the life of a rural Zulu fam...
Rorke's Drift Orientation Centre
In the midst of the spectacular Drakensberg Mountain Range, the Rorke's Drift Orientation Centre reveals insights, even secrets, about the beauty...
Rorke's Drift Horseback Safaris
There is an undeniable sense of magic in the African bush. It is about more than just the crisp air on your face or the warm sunshine on your sho...
Accommodation convenient to Mangeni Falls
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / KwaZulu Natal Accommodation / Battlefields Accommodation / Rorkes Drift Accommodation