For those seeking a quieter and more serene way to cool off, Cape Town’s surrounding dams and rivers provide great places for a refreshing swim. These swimming spots in and around Cape Town cover everything from peaceful lakes to challenging hikes to beautiful waterfalls. Enjoy some of the region’s most stunning natural settings.
1. Silvermine Reservoir
- Where: Between Tokai and Noordhoek
- Distance from CT: 50 minutes
- Best For: Open-water training, dog-friendly swims
- What to Expect: The large Silvermine Reservoir, nestled between Tokai and Noordhoek, is an open space perfect for swimming. The water is warmer than the ocean, and it’s a favorite spot for open-water swimmers. While there are no lifeguards, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by fynbos and trees. Dogs are allowed on the south side of the reservoir (with a permit), making it ideal for a family outing. A 1km boardwalk trail is accessible for prams and wheelchairs, with plenty of picnic spots.
- Important Notes:
- Dogs need a My Activity permit.
- No braais allowed in summer.
- Conservation fee applies: R42 for adults.
- Contact: 021 780 9002 (gate), TMNP Tokai office: 021 712 7471, [email protected]
2. Krom River
- Where: Worcester/Paarl
- Distance from CT: 1 hour
- Best For: Hikers, waterfall lovers
- What to Expect: The Krom River Trail, located in the stunning Limietberg Nature Reserve, is perfect for those who love adventure. The 7km hike through riverine forest leads to two breathtaking waterfalls with crystal-clear plunge pools. The water is cold, providing relief after your hike. Be sure to start early to soak in the sunshine at the pools.
- Important Notes:
- A chain ladder climb between waterfalls adds to the challenge.
- Only 24 permits are issued per day.
- Permits: R50 for adults.
- Contact: 021 871 1535 (reserve office), CapeNature: 087 087 8250
3. Maalgat (Cederberg)
- Where: Cederberg
- Distance from CT: 3.5 hours
- Best For: Adventure seekers, natural rock pools
- What to Expect: Maalgat, or “Hippo Pool,” is a deep natural swimming pool in the Cederberg, surrounded by rock platforms perfect for diving in. The water is crystal clear and cool, making it an inviting spot for a refreshing swim. It’s accessible via a 30-minute hike downstream from the Sanddrif campsite.
- Important Notes:
- Permits are required, and overnight stays are mandatory during school holidays and long weekends.
- Camping options available at Sanddrif.
- Conservation fee: R85 for adults.
- Contact: 027 482 2825 / 044 004 0060
4. Bainskloof (Worcester)
- Where: Worcester
- Distance from CT: 2 hours
- Best For: River hikes and multiple swimming spots
- What to Expect: The Bainskloof Pass offers several river trails, each with its own swimming hole. Hike along the Witte River or the Bobbejaans River and enjoy serene mountain pools or the refreshing waterfall along the Happy Valley Trail. The Tweede Tol campsite is a great base to explore these areas.
- Important Notes:
- Hiking permits and advance bookings are required.
- Popular campsite, so early arrival is advisable.
- Hiking permit: R50 for adults.
- Contact: 021 871 1535 (reserve office), 087 087 4145 (Tweede Tol)
5. Crystal Pools Waterfall
- Where: Gordon’s Bay
- Distance from CT: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Best For: Waterfall and rock pool lovers
- What to Expect: A short hike through the stunning Steenbras Nature Reserve leads you to the Crystal Pools Waterfall, where several icy rock pools await. The hike is moderately challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort. Book early, as only 50 people are allowed access daily.
- Important Notes:
- No entry after 2 pm, so start early.
- Booking required 3 working days in advance.
- Entry fee: R80.
- Contact: 021 480 7700 (emergency number)
6. Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area
- Where: Porterville
- Distance from CT: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Best For: Nature lovers, clear mountain pools
- What to Expect: The Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area offers breathtaking scenery and tranquil swimming opportunities in crystal-clear pools along the Kliphuis River. Take the easy walk to Protea or Disa Pools or challenge yourself with the longer De Tronk trail to the larger De Hel pool.
- Important Notes:
- Trails are restricted to 12 hikers per day, so booking is essential.
- Hiking permit: R80 for adults.
- Contact: 087 087 4047 (reserve office), CapeNature: 087 087 8250
7. Beaverlac
- Where: Porterville
- Distance from CT: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Best For: Secluded getaways, waterfall exploration
- What to Expect: Beaverlac is a hidden gem in the Groot Winterhoek Mountains, offering crystal-clear rock pools and refreshing waterfalls. The campsite, surrounded by nature, is perfect for a weekend getaway. A variety of hiking trails and caves await exploration.
- Important Notes:
- No day visitors allowed; overnight booking required.
- Dog-friendly in the campsite (but not at swimming spots).
- Campsite access times: Monday – Thursday & Sunday, 8am – 4:30pm.
- Contact: 022 931 2945
8. 22 Waterfalls
- Where: Porterville
- Distance from CT: 2 hours
- Best For: Waterfall lovers and adventurous hikers
- What to Expect: The 22 Waterfalls trail takes you through a forested ravine with numerous waterfalls, offering deep pools for swimming. It’s a bit of an adventure, with ladders and boulders to navigate, but the rewards are multiple swimming spots beneath cascading waterfalls.
- Important Notes:
- Booking required for trail access.
- Day visitor limit: 20 people.
- Trail cost: R50 per person.
- Contact: 022 125 0583
9. Duiwelsbos Waterfall
Location: Marloth Nature Reserve, Swellendam
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours
For those seeking a blend of forest adventure and serene waterfalls, the Duiwelsbos Waterfall in Marloth Nature Reserve offers a truly magical experience. The 1.8 km hike through indigenous forest takes you along cool, shaded riverbanks and culminates in a delightful plunge pool beneath the dramatic Duiwelsbos Waterfall. The hike is relatively moderate, but you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing dip in the river after your trek. To really make a day of it, combine the Duiwelsbos route with the Plaat Loop for additional river swimming spots and mountain streams to explore.
Please note:
- Be cautious of baboons, as they can be common in the area, and always keep your food secured.
- You will need a permit to access the trail.
Dog-friendly? No
Opening times: Daily, 7:30 am – 5 pm
Cost: Entry fee required for permits
Contact: 028 514 2735, [email protected]
Where to find it: Marloth Nature Reserve, Swellendam via the R60
10. Matroosberg
Location: Near Ceres
Distance from CT: 2 hours
Famous for snow in the winter, Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve is also a summer gem for those in search of cool mountain waters. Nestled high on the mountain slopes, you’ll find a series of rock pools and waterfalls, perfect for a swim on a hot day. The largest pool is surrounded by smooth, flat rocks, ideal for sliding down into the refreshing water. For those looking to stay closer to the action, there are campsites and off-grid cabins, with Solitaire Mountain Cabin being the closest to the rock pools.
Please note:
- If staying overnight, book the Solitaire Mountain Cabin for proximity to the pools.
- Hiking to the Crystal Pools takes about 2 hours, or you can drive to the foot of the mountain and hike for 40 minutes.
Dog-friendly? Yes, R30 per dog
Opening times: Daily, 8 am – 4 pm
Cost: R90 (adults); R70 (children under 13)
Contact: 023 312 2282, [email protected]
Where to find it: Matroosberg Reserve/Erfdeel Farm, Bo-Swaarmoed Road (off R46), near Ceres
11. The Berg River
Location: Paarl
Distance from CT: 50 minutes
The Berg River Resort, situated in the heart of the Winelands, is an excellent spot for those seeking a family-friendly day out. With calm waters for swimming and canoeing, it’s an ideal location for a relaxing afternoon by the river. The resort offers a range of recreational activities, from canoe and boat rentals to leisurely swims in the Olympic-sized pool. There are also plenty of picnic spots along the water for a laid-back day outdoors. The Berg River Resort is a peaceful retreat just a short drive from Cape Town.
Please note:
- The resort is closed during school holidays.
- Bring your own picnic and braai gear.
Dog-friendly? No
Opening times: Daily, 8 am – 6 pm
Cost: R150 per person; R150 per car (during school holiday periods)
Contact: 021 007 1852, [email protected]
Where to find it: Berg River Resort, Southern Paarl, on R45 via N1
12. Klein River
Location: Stanford
Distance from CT: 2 hours
For those seeking a quiet and picturesque river experience, Klein River in Stanford offers a serene retreat. The river is calm, perfect for swimming, and runs through lush meadows and mountainous terrain, making it an idyllic escape for anyone looking to unwind. A particularly popular access point is at the bottom of King Street, where shaded lawns offer a perfect spot for a picnic. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the Stanford Wandelpad walking trail, which follows the river through the village.
Dog-friendly? Yes
Opening times: Always open
Cost: Free
Contact: 028 341 0340, [email protected]
Where to find it: King Street, Stanford, via N2 and R43
13. Paradyskloof Waterfall
Location: Stellenbosch
Distance from CT: 45 minutes
A scenic yet easy-to-reach option for a refreshing swim on a hot day is Paradyskloof Waterfall near Stellenbosch. This short, 5km hike through the Eden Forest offers fantastic views of the surrounding winelands and takes you to a cascade where you can cool off in the shallow pools. While there is no deep pool for full submersion, the waterfall’s gentle spray is perfect for a quick splash or a relaxing dip beneath the water. The hike itself is beginner-friendly and offers a peaceful forest walk through pine trees and fynbos.
Please note:
- The waterfall is best visited after a good rainfall.
- While dogs are allowed, they should remain on a leash.
Dog-friendly? Yes, on a leash
Opening times: Daily, 7:30 am – 8 pm
Cost: Free
Contact: 021 808 8160/8119
Where to find it: Eden Forest, Paradyskloof Way, Stellenbosch
Final Thoughts
The dams and rivers of Cape Town offer a variety of swimming options to suit every swimmer’s preference, whether you prefer a secluded pool or a thrilling dip beneath a waterfall. Make sure you plan ahead, obtain any necessary permits, and respect the environment.
