Waterval Boven

Waterval Boven, officially known as Emgwenya, is a picturesque town nestled in the Drakensberg Mountains on the edge of the escarpment in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Its Dutch name, meaning "above the waterfall," refers to its location above the 75-meter Elands River Falls, a prominent natural feature best viewed from a platform near the historic Netherlands-South African Railway Company's (NZASM) tunnel. The town is conveniently situated along the N4 highway, approximately two and a half hours from Johannesburg and halfway to Nelspruit, serving as a gateway to the Kruger National Park. It is the sister town to Waterval Onder, which lies at the base of the escarpment.Emgwenya is renowned as one of Africa's premier rock climbing destinations, boasting over 700 routes that cater to both novice and experienced climbers. Beyond climbing, the area offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking through the scenic Elands Valley, horse riding, mountain biking, and trout fishing in its pristine waters. The surrounding landscape is characterized by its rocky escarpment, rich plant life, and diverse bird species, with numerous mountain swimming holes providing opportunities for relaxation.The town holds significant historical and cultural importance, having been established in 1895 as a vital supply town along the NZASM railway line that connected Pretoria to Delagoa Bay (now Maputo). It flourished as a key stop for locomotive refueling and repair. Today, Waterval Boven is home to several National Monuments, including the beautiful sandstone 5-Arch Bridge and the NZASM tunnel, which are remnants of its railway heritage. Visitors can also explore President Paul Kruger's official residence from 1900. For those interested in ancient history, the area features ancient stone-walled structures, and the Stone Circle Museum and Bistro delves into the story of Adam's Calendar, believed by some to be the oldest man-made monument. The Emgwenya Heritage Centre is a community-led initiative dedicated to preserving and showcasing the area's rich history and culture.