The Orange River is roaring through Augrabies Falls National Park after a dramatic surge in water levels transformed the famous gorge into a powerful natural spectacle.
A flow of 2 334 cubic metres per second was recorded on 11 May 2026, sending massive volumes of water crashing through the falls and creating hazardous conditions in parts of the park.
In response, South African National Parks (SANParks) has temporarily closed several popular hiking trails as a precautionary safety measure.
Popular hiking trails in Augrabies Falls National Park temporarily closed
According to SANParks, the closures are intended to protect visitors from flood-related dangers caused by the powerful river conditions.
The affected trails include:
- The Gorge Trail – a well-known hiking route offering close-up views of the falls and river gorge, now inaccessible due to flood risks.
- The Klipspringer Hiking Trail – the park’s three-day wilderness trail, which has also been affected by high water conditions.
- The Dassie Interpretative Trail – a shorter educational trail that has been closed for safety reasons.
The park noted that strong currents, slippery pathways and heavy spray from the falls have created dangerous conditions for hikers near the gorge.
Park remains open to visitors
Despite the trail closures, the rest of the park remains open and accessible to tourists.
Main viewing points overlooking the falls are still operational, allowing visitors to safely experience the dramatic surge of the Orange River.
The falls, whose name comes from the Khoi word meaning “place of great noise”, are currently living up to that reputation as the river pounds through the granite gorge below.
The surge follows persistent rainfall upstream, which significantly increased water volumes flowing through the Orange River system.
While flood conditions have disrupted some activities within the park, the dramatic scenes have also attracted visitors eager to witness one of South Africa’s most iconic natural landmarks at near full force.
Officials are continuing to monitor conditions and have urged visitors to follow all safety instructions while exploring the park.
