Discover the hidden magic of Waterval Boven
On the N4 between the railway line from Komatipoort to Pretoria and a historical tunnel lies Waterval Boven.
Also known as Emgwenya, the area boasts beautiful views making the journey a pleasurable one. As you drive through the tunnel, you feel as if you’re starring in an international movie. The reality is, the atmosphere is breathtaking!
A few years ago, I attended an event at the community hall and I remember complaining to my colleague how small the place is. We went to look for a place to eat, expecting to find a Shisa Nyama, but to our disappointment we ended up buying packets of crisps. Nonetheless, Waterval Boven has a rich history:
The Train Disaster :
This year marks 67 years since 63 Mozambican labourers died in a train accident in the early hours of the morning of Wednesday November November 16,1952. This is a tragedy never to be forgotten in history.
Elands Waterfall :
It is one of the highest waterfalls in the province and one cannot miss this scenic view. It is compared to South Africa’s highest waterfall, the 90-metres Lisbon Falls.
Krugerhof:
His house is now a museum, President Stephanus Johannes Paulus Kruger was part of the Great Trek in the 1800s. He served four terms and later died in Sitzwerland in 1904.
Five Arch Bridge:
It was declared a monument in 1963 and is constructed of stone cut in Itay. The bridge carried the famous “Eastern Line” railway track across the preciptous gorge of the Dwaalheuwelspruit. It opened to rail traffic on June 20, 1984 and the line ran along the bridge untill it was no longer needed. The bridge was then converted to a road bridge and served as such for many years untill the new tunnel was constructed next to the NZASM Tunnel, and the present road was completed.
Steam Train :
It is one of the last remaining steam locomotives that has stopped running, but it is still considered one of the most popular heritage icons in the province.
