The Ncandu State Forest Nature Reserve prides itself on being the province’s second biggest indigenous forest and teems with beautiful yellowwood gorges and stretches of natural grassland.

Durban - Ncandu Falls can be found in the 3 000ha Ncandu State Forest. A peaceful view from one of the many trails you can follow around Ncandu, Falls not far from Newcastle. Maintained by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the waterfall is about 30m high and considered part of Chelmsford Dam, which is 40km away.

The area is a magnet for daredevils – youngsters were diving off a cliff into the water, and we saw rafters out in force on the river. There are braai and picnic areas.

Many trails take you past sandstone cliffs and the waterfall. Birds that can be spotted include Olive Woodpecker, Heuglin’s Robin, Bush Blackcap, African Wood Owl and Bush Blackcap, as well as the elusive Cape Parrot.