Berlin Falls
The Berlin Falls is a waterfall in Mpumalanga, South Africa. They are located close to God's Window and the highest waterfall in South Africa's Mpumalanga province, Lisbon Falls.[1] Whilst less than a tenth of the heigh of South Africa's tallest waterfall, the Tugela Falls, they are nonetheless extremely beautiful. Berlin Falls, which forms part of the Blyde River Canyon on the Panorama route, is one of several waterfalls that can be found in the Sabie region – the others being Horseshoe Falls, Lone Creek Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Mac-Mac Falls, and the highest waterfall in Mpumalanga, Lisbon Falls, which is a staggering 90m high.
| Berlin Falls | |
|---|---|
 Berlin Falls | |
| Location | Mpumalanga, South Africa |
| Coordinates | 24°50′37.37″S 30°50′33.03″E |
| Total height | 80 metres (260 ft) |
| Number of drops | 1 |
| Watercourse | Sabine River |
The Berlin Falls cascade from the centre of a sheer cliff that stands roughly 80m tall. The shape of the falls is likened to a giant candle. A narrow, natural channel at the top of the falls creates the ‘wick’ of the candle, and as the water drops from this point, it fans out creating the rest of the candle before emptying out into the pool below.
Berlin Falls gets its name from miners who ventured to South Africa from Europe during the gold rush, and named each waterfall in the region after their home towns, or places from their home countries.
Visitors to the Berlin Falls can explore the area by foot, enjoy a picnic around the waterfall, and even take a dip in the pool at the base of the waterfall. Be sure to look out for the Blyde River Protea which is endemic to this area. Birding enthusiasts will also enjoy the numerous bird species which can be found in this region of the Mpumalanga escarpment. Binoculars and bird identification books are highly recommended.
The falls are on the Sabine River and fall 80 metres (260 ft), dumping into a circular basin flanked by red cliffs.[1][2]
The falls have the shape of a candle, with the first short drop the wick, and the remaining, broader drop being the candle body.[1]
Etymology
The falls were named by German miners during the gold rush, who named locations after towns and places in their home country. Berlin Falls was named for the capital of Germany.[1]
See also
References
- "Mpumalanga Attraction - Berlin Falls". Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency. Archived from the original on 27 September 2011. Retrieved 27 August 2011.
- "Berlin Falls". South African Tourism. Archived from the original on 27 September 2011. Retrieved 27 August 2011.
https://web.archive.org/web/20160307160436/http://www.kwendatravel.com/attractions/BerlinFalls