The Kadishi tufa waterfall near Matibiti, the second tallest tufa waterfall in the world at 200 metres, has been dubbed ‘the weeping face of nature’ precisely because at the right angle, it resembles a giant stone face crying into the clear pools below.

A tufa waterfall is formed when water running over dolomite rock absorbs calcium. The calcium precipitates and is deposited as layers of tufa on the waterfall’s surface, faster than the water erodes the surrounding rock.

In this case, these calcium deposits have built up to give the waterfall face-like features.

The surrounding area of the world-famous Blyde River Canyon is a natural wonder, and provides a perfect backdrop for those wanting to visit the Kadishi waterfall.

It’s home to a large diversity of life, including primate species that are only seen in South Africa: somango monkeys, nocturnal greater and lesser bushbabies, chacma baboons and vervet monkeys.

The waterfall lies hidden at the end of Blydepoort Dam, making a guided boat trip the easiest way to access it.

From: Kruger Lowveld Tourism