Waterval Boven, now Emgwenya, combines a townscape shaped by vertical quartzite rocks and cliffs with sport climbing, tours and distinctive examples of architectural history. When planning your visit, it is worth distinguishing between activities in the town and options in the surrounding area: Emgwenya has climbing routes and cultural sites; hikes in the Elands Valley are nearby. Climbing and cultural heritage in the town are thus complemented by hiking options in the surrounding area.
Climbing and Landscape
Emgwenya has more than 600 sport climbing routes. Their grades range from easy to very difficult; this range provides a practical guide to choosing a route, in addition to the total number available. The vertical quartzite rocks and cliffs shape the town and give its landscape a distinctive character. Waterval Boven’s climbing options and landscape character can therefore be considered as two distinct aspects.
Tours and Hiking Options
Stone Circle Tours offers driving and hiking tours, including individually arranged tours. The two types of tour differ in how you get around; the option to arrange a tour individually offers another approach to planning. If you have a particular tour in mind, check its availability directly with the provider.
The nearby Elands Valley has hikes with routes for beginners as well as more challenging options. This adds another type of activity to the tours and climbing routes, this time in the area around the destination. The different difficulty levels help you choose; however, availability and trail conditions may change. So check the current route selection and conditions before setting out on a hike.
Monuments and Local Topics
Waterval Boven’s historic landmarks include the five-arch sandstone bridge and the NZASM Tunnel. Both are designated National Monuments. The bridge is readily distinguished from the tunnel by its material and arched form; together, the two structures represent the focus of Waterval Boven’s architectural heritage. The historic Waterval Boven Tunnel is 211 metres long. A 2016 article says that tourists can walk through it; check access before your visit.
The Emgwenya Heritage & Tourism Information Centre features exhibitions on local stone circles, geological formations, railway history, and local culture and history. The centre brings together several topics, while the bridge and tunnel are two specific landmarks. The Ancient Ruins and Stone Circle Museum is also located in Waterval Boven, now Emgwenya.
Views of Eland Falls
The 75-metre-high Eland Falls can be viewed from a lookout platform just outside Emgwenya. The platform is accessible from the NZASM Tunnel. Check current access to the platform before your visit.
For the main travel overview: Emgwenya.
