Middelberg Waterfall Walk

About Middelberg Waterfall Walk

Start: Algeria forest station campsite
Finish: Algeria forest station campsite
Duration: 6 km, roughly 3 hours return (but allow for time at the waterfall)
Fitness: easy but there is a moderate climb; perfect for children
Our tip: the Cederberg can get incredibly hot in summer; try to leave early

One of the shorter and more manageable walks of the Cederberg, the walk to Middelberg waterfall nonetheless is fairly steep and gets the blood pumping. The trail is well-maintained and not difficult to follow.

Follow clear signs from the Algeria campsite, crossing the Rondegat River before heading alongside it into the deep kloof behind Algeria.

As the trail approaches a cedar tree forest it will fork. Ignore the unmarked left fork continuing 'straight'(the left fork takes you across the river and returns to Algeria). The route is interspersed with enough photo moments for your walk to take longer than you thought it would.

Up ahead, and almost at the height of the waterfall, follow the signpost 'waterval' (wooden sign) left ( the right fork takes you to Middleburg Hut, used by overnight hikers in the Cederberg). Children will enjoy boulder hopping on the approach to the waterfall.

It is worth spending time here, particularly if you are lucky enough not to have to share it – there are views of the surrounding mountains and across the valley. The pool is not very deep, which means it is great for paddling, but you won't get much of a swim out of the visit. However, it is great for weary, hot feet whilst sharing a picnic on the rocks.

The return walk does not take as long, as it is downhill. For a slightly different return along the other side of the river, take the fork you ignored on the way up closest to the camp.