Kloof, South Africa: History, Lifestyle, and Attractions

Nov 13, 2025 0

Kloof is a leafy upper-class suburb and small town, including Everton, in the greater Durban area, South Africa. This little village has a reputation for a tranquil lifestyle that offers a retreat from the sometimes enervating humidity of the city of Durban.

Kloof extends from the top of Field's Hill and borders Winston Park, Gillitts, Forest Hills and Hillcrest. These suburbs are collectively known as the Upper Highway Area or the Outer West region of Durban. It is a predominantly English-speaking area.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The word Kloof (cf. cleft) means 'gorge' in Afrikaans and the area is named after the deep ravine formed by the Molweni stream (stream of high cliffs). Kloof was originally called 'Krantzkloof' by J C Field, after the nearby Kloof Gorge, but this name was later changed to 'Kloof' at the special request of the General Manager of the Railways, since due to a name similarity with Kranskop there had been significant confusion and misdeliveries of railway goods.

Historical Roots

The land Kloof occupies formed the 2,836 hectares (7,010 acres) Richmond Farm No. 999. In 1851, this was given to William Swan Field by the British Government in 1851 as a reward for his services as First Collector of Customs for Natal Colony, and as First Magistrate of Durban. In 1852 he settled brother John Coote FIELD and his family on the farm, having had them brought up from the Cape Colony. The original farmhouse, called Richmond House, was built by J C Field in 1854 to replace an earlier house.

Upon the death of John, the farm was divided amongst the surviving heirs: 560 acres for each son and 395 acres for each daughter, and the homestead plus 500 acres to his youngest son, Benjamin Cromwell Colenso Field.

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The further subdivisions and sale of portions of Richmond Farm No. 999 by the Field heirs after 1901 resulted in the birth of Kloof as a residential area. Numerous plots were sold to wealthy Durban residents and businessmen, who built country house retreats close to the city, but (due to its 550 m above sea level elevation) removed from the Durban humidity and heat.

As roads improved, an increasing number of people began permanently living in Kloof and during the 1960s and 1970s, the development of the traditional Kloof houses occurred. These consisted of large houses that were built on stands of at least 1 acre (0.4 ha).

Property Market

Properties in this area are highly sought after and range from approximately R1.5 million to R5 million +. The majority of property buyers in this area are aged between 36 and 49, making this the perfect place to raise a family.

Attractions and Activities

Kloof offers a variety of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike.

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve: The Krantzkloof Nature Reserve conserves 668 ha of the Molweni and Nkutu River gorges that incise the sandstone Kloof plateau. The reserve is just four kilometres from the centre of Kloof and offers some breathtaking views of the forested gorge. A wonderful picnic area next to the dam at the head of Kloof Falls is an attractive option for a weekend. From here there are various walks that descend into the gorge, following the course of the Molweni River.
Kloof Country Club: The Kloof Country Club is steeped in history and is regarded as one of the best country clubs in KwaZulu Natal. The club is an established golfing landmark, as well as the networking and social hub of the Upper Highway Area. The club also boasts an indigenous tree planting program that has made the club grounds a haven for bird-watchers.
Memorial Park: Memorial Park, known as the dog park to the locals, is a hugely popular park in Kloof and is well known as a gathering place and one of the very few open spaces where you can safely walk your dog. With jungle gyms, tables, and benches, this is the perfect spot for a day out with your family and four-legged friends.
Makaranga Garden Lodge: At the heart of Kloof you’ll find the enchanting Makaranga Garden Lodge, with thirty acres of indigenous and exotic botanical gardens, 18 ponds, meandering streams and a waterfall. Here, you can experience the largest private collection of Zimbabwean stone art in Southern Africa as well as hand selected Italian sculptures.
Stoker’s Arms: Stoker’s Arms is situated in the old Kloof Railway Station and is, as a result, steeped in history and oozing a special heritage. Today, you’ll find a bustling restaurant where locals enjoy a good pub meal and beer on tap.
Umgeni Steam Railway: On the last Sunday of every month, you can take a ride on one of South Africa's oldest steam trains. The Umgeni Steam Railway offers steam train rides which depart from the railway outside Stoker’s Arms and travels from Kloof to Inchanga where there is a craft market.
Kloof & Upper Highway SPCA: Kloof & Upper Highway SPCA provides a wonderful day out. Not only are they an animal shelter, but offer a quaint tea garden and nursery. Every Saturday, you’ll find visitors perusing the second-hand shops for hidden gems.

Hiking Vlog Krantzkloof Nature Reserve

Education

Kloof is home to a range of highly acclaimed schools, including:

Kloof High School
Kloof Senior Primary School
Kloof Junior Primary School
Kloof Pre-Primary School
Thomas More College
St Mary's Diocesan School for Girls

Thomas More College is the largest independent school in KwaZulu Natal and it functions in three phases, allowing the nurturing of the child from Grade 000 to Grade 12. St Mary's Diocesan School for Girls is a Christian private day and boarding school for girls. Their well-balanced curriculum is designed to motivate, challenge and engage their students.

Amenities and Shopping

Kloof boasts many smaller shopping centres such as Delcairn Centre, Field's Shopping Centre, Maytime Shopping Centre, and The Village Mall.

Climate

Kloof is known as a mist-belt and has winding roads and tree-surrounded mansions. Kloof enjoys a lovely cool climate, in which the temperature on a typical summer's day rises into the mid or high 20s. Summer evenings remain cool, with temperatures typically in the high teens. Average yearly rainfall is 1,075 millimetres (42.3 in), based on records which date back to 1935.

In conclusion, Kloof is a tranquil place to call home, situated within easy reach of Durban, yet away from the rushed pace of city life and the oppressive heat and humidity. The winding, tree-lined streets create an idyllic place to live a family-orientated lifestyle.

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