Half Collared Kingfisher Trail Gate (permit required) — Attraction in George

Half collard King Fisher Trail is from the parking area and return around 9,2KM, however, I would estimate you should be able to do a 15km hike as it is an uphill hike on the way there and downhill on the way back. As it falls in the national park there is an entrance fee of around R82 (2023) per person. At the entrance, you are on the left-hand side of the river, and you will continue up around 3km where you must cross the river to reach the waterfall. There are 2 options, first presented will be the pontoon boat, if you cross here the walk will be slightly flatter overall and easier going. If you feel like a challenge around 1km of harder terrain you will get stepping stones where you can step across the river. Note if there has been hard rain a few days before, you may find the river overflows these stepping stones and you will need to remove your shoes and socks to cross. On the other hand, the positive side of rain a few days before is that the waterfall at the top will be fast flowing and impressive. (Which I experienced). A friend of mine did the hike a week before and it was dry there was no waterfall at all, only the pools below. The walk is a mixture of forest paths, wooden decks, and wooden steps. When you reach the top, a wonderful waterfall fell into the natural pool below. Well recommended to pack in a costume to enjoy a swim in the pools before hiking back. There hike overall had wonderful views of forests, rivers, and waterfalls....

I would rate the walk of about 7 km as a 2 on a scale of 5. It is generally walk friendly for most levels of fitness. Keep in mind that there are steep wooden steps occasionally which might hamper some walkers. Always wear comfortable shoes and protection against the sun. Very little shade at the waterfall. Take something to eat and drink along. No shops close by.

This is not a circle route. The waterfall is the halfway mark and u will walk back the same way you went. It is fun to cross the river with the pontoon. You dont need to be skilled to achieve the crossing.

South Africans pay a different entrance fee. We paid R46.00 per adults. No student rates, however kids under 12 pay less. The payment kiosk is at the entrance where you will also receive the permit. There are enough parking in the area. There are also mobile toilets at the entrance, the only once (except mother nature) along the way.

It is a beautiful shady walk and the occasional boardwalk over the forest bed is well maintained.

Not recommended for persons with disabilities. (Sorry, if I miss- judge your ability). Why not rather get one of the cano's and...

We spent a lovely morning hiking the Half Collared Kingfisher Trail in the Garden Route National Park. Upon arrival at the gate, you have to fill in the relevant paperwork before heading to the trail itself. Once you’ve paid your permit fees for day visitors, you head into the trail. It’s a little uneventful for the first 15 minutes but soon picks up pace when you have to pull yourself over the river on a raft (there is another alternative route available too). This was great fun but was quite difficult if there were more than a few of you on the barge.

Once you’re across the river, the walk truly becomes magical, as you wind your way through the forest along the elevated boardwalks. You catch a glimpse of various colourful birds as you go, and considering the walk is fairly isolated, it is very well looked after and maintained. After around 90 minutes of walking, you arrive at the stunning waterfall, which is a lovely spot for a break or lunch. I would highly recommend making the effort to explore and hike the Half Collared Kingfisher Trail – it’s...