Crystal Pools & Magical Waterfalls Adventure, Cape Town

Stellenbosch , South Africa

Crystal Pools & Magical Waterfalls Adventure, Cape Town

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Dive into Adventure at Crystal Pools in Gordon’s Bay!

Embark on an exhilarating hike to Crystal Pools, a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking Steenbras River Gorge within the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. This picturesque trail follows the serene Palmiet River, leading you through a lush valley to a series of stunning natural rock pools perfect for swimming and unwinding.

While the hike offers a moderate challenge with some inclines and declines, it’s accessible and rewarding for adventurers of all levels. Along the way, we’ll pause to explore up to four sparkling pools, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim. Our journey includes a well-deserved break at the most scenic pool, allowing you to soak in the tranquility before retracing our steps back, taking rest breaks as needed.

This adventure promises a perfect blend of light exercise, relaxation, and the unparalleled beauty of nature—making it an unforgettable outdoor experience!

Available options

Standard

What's included

Photo Opportunities at the best spots along the route

Qualified Hiking Adventure Guide

Local Knowledge of History, Culture, Fauna & Flora and Local City Attractions

What's not included

Lunch

Snacks

Transportation (Can be arranged)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

If you’ve chosen private pick-up, your location will be Nobel Square at the V&A Waterfront. For those meeting at the hike’s starting point, please allow for a 1-hour drive from Cape Town city center. Exact meeting time will be confirmed at least 6 hours before the activity begins.

About Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch, nestled in the Cape Winelands, is a picturesque university town known for its Cape Dutch architecture, world-class wines, and stunning mountain landscapes. It's a vibrant blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination in South Africa.

Top Attractions

Stellenbosch University

One of Africa's leading universities, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant student life. The campus is a must-visit for its beauty and historical significance.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Drostdy Wine Estate

A historic wine estate with beautiful Cape Dutch architecture, offering wine tastings and a glimpse into Stellenbosch's winemaking heritage.

Wine/Historical 1-2 hours R50 to R100 (USD $3 to $7) for tastings

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

A stunning natural reserve with hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day R50 (USD $3) entry fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Braai (BBQ)

A traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats, sausages, and vegetables. Often accompanied by pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish).

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.

Bunny Chow

A Durban-inspired dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. It's a popular and affordable street food option.

Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based curry fillings.

Malva Pudding

A sweet, sticky, and spongy pudding made with apricots and covered in a creamy sauce. Often served with ice cream or custard.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar. Vegan and gluten-free alternatives may be available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve Mountain biking in Stellenbosch Mountain Bike Park Paragliding over the winelands Wine tasting at local estates Spa treatments at luxury resorts Picnicking in the Botanical Garden Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

February to April, September to November

These periods offer pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities, wine tasting, and exploring the town. The landscapes are lush and green, and the weather is ideal for hiking and cycling.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English
Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stellenbosch is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates compared to other South African cities. However, petty crime and opportunistic theft can occur, so it's important to take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber

Getting there

By air

Cape Town International Airport • 50 km (31 miles)

By train

Stellenbosch Station

By bus

Stellenbosch Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The MyCiTi bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and clear routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Stellenbosch Dornhof Devon Valley

Day trips

Franschhoek

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

A charming town known for its French Huguenot heritage, stunning wine estates, and gourmet dining. Franschhoek offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Paarl

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque town with a rich history and some of the Cape Winelands' most renowned wine estates. Paarl is known for its beautiful architecture, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Cape Town

50 km (31 miles) • Full day or overnight

South Africa's vibrant and cosmopolitan capital, offering a mix of stunning beaches, historic sites, and world-class attractions. Cape Town is a must-visit for its natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Festivals

Stellenbosch Wine Festival • February to March (annual, dates vary) Woordfees (Word Festival) • March (annual, dates vary) Stellenbosch on Tap • October (annual, dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Stellenbosch Farmers' Market for a taste of local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts (Saturdays, seasonally, April to November)
Explore the town's historic sites and architecture on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other
Take a wine tour to discover the best of Stellenbosch's wine estates and learn about the region's winemaking heritage
Hike in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve for stunning views and outdoor adventure, with trails suitable for all skill levels
Attend a local festival or event for a taste of South African culture and entertainment, such as the Stellenbosch Wine Festival or Woordfees (Word Festival)