The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, South Africa is undoubtedly one of the country's most scenic self-drive routes. Stretching along the northeastern section of the Great Escarpment of the Drakensberg, this route offers breathtaking views where the highland plateau dramatically falls away into the Lowveld below.
As the name suggests, panoramic vistas await at every turn, with travelers often describing the experience as being able to "touch the clouds." The route, steeped in the history of South Africa, is centered around the Blyde River Canyon, the world's third largest canyon and the largest "green canyon" due to its lush subtropical foliage.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about planning a trip to the Panorama Route, from the must-see attractions to accommodation options, dining spots, adventure activities, and practical travel tips.
When to Visit the Panorama Route
The Panorama Route is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience:
Dry Season (May – September)
This is considered the best time to visit. The weather typically consists of mild, clear days and cool nights, offering the best visibility for those spectacular views. The winter months (June to August) are particularly good for clear panoramic vistas.
Rainy Season (October – April)
During summer, you can expect hot weather, especially in the Kruger area and on the lowveld, with some rainfall. While the rain brings lush greenery and dramatic cloud formations that enhance the scenery, it can also lead to mist that obscures the views. The waterfalls are at their most impressive during this period.
If you want to avoid crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons or summer months, though you should be prepared for possible mist and rain affecting visibility.
Getting to the Panorama Route
From Johannesburg
The most common starting point for the Panorama Route is Johannesburg. The journey from Johannesburg to Graskop (one of the main towns along the route) covers approximately 250 miles (400 km) and takes about 5 hours without stops.
Flying In
You can also fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) near Nelspruit or Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit, and rent a car from there. This option saves time and allows you to start your Panorama Route journey much closer to the main attractions.
Self-Drive vs. Guided Tours
Self-Drive
Self-driving gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stopping whenever and wherever you want. The roads are generally in good condition, though there may be potholes in some areas, particularly around Graskop.
When self-driving, it's advisable to:
- Rent a car with good clearance
- Remember that South Africans drive on the left
- Request an automatic car if you're not familiar with manual transmission
- Avoid driving after dark in rural areas
- Fill up your gas tank whenever possible
- Carry cash for entrance fees
- Download offline maps
Guided Tours
Guided tours offer convenience and local knowledge. Tour guides can provide in-depth information about the area's history, geology, and wildlife. This option is ideal if you prefer not to drive or want to learn more about the region from a local expert.
Costs for guided day tours range from R700-R1,500 per person, which may be more economical than car rental, fuel, and navigation stress for some travelers.
Top Attractions on the Panorama Route
1. Blyde River Canyon
The crown jewel of the Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world and the largest green canyon. Stretching for 26 kilometers with cliffs up to 800 meters high, it offers some of the most spectacular views in South Africa.
Three Rondavels Viewpoint: This iconic spot showcases three massive, round rock formations that resemble traditional African huts or "rondavels." These huge spiral-shaped formations rise about 700 meters from the river bed, creating one of the most photographed views in South Africa.
Entry Fee: R35 per person
2. God's Window
God's Window is a scenic viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views from a height of 900 meters. On clear days, you can see all the way to Mozambique. The site includes a rainforest walk and several viewing platforms that showcase the dramatic drop from the escarpment to the lowveld below.
Entry Fee: R20 per person
3. Bourke's Luck Potholes
Named after gold prospector Tom Bourke, these natural water features have been formed by centuries of water erosion at the confluence of the Treur and Blyde Rivers. The swirling whirlpools created when the two rivers meet have carved cylindrical potholes into the bedrock, creating a unique geological wonder. Visitors can explore the potholes via walkways and bridges.
Entry Fee: R65 per person
4. The Pinnacle
The Pinnacle is a free-standing quartzite column that rises dramatically from the dense indigenous forest below. This unique rock formation offers excellent photo opportunities, especially in the early morning light.
Entry Fee: R20 per person
5. Lisbon Falls
At 94 meters, Lisbon Falls is the highest waterfall in Mpumalanga. The waterfall cascades in four distinct streams, creating a spectacular display, especially during the rainy season. There's a viewing platform at the top and a hiking trail that leads to the base of the falls for a different perspective.
Entry Fee: R15 per person
6. Berlin Falls
Named after the German capital, Berlin Falls is 45 meters high and resembles a candle shape with a narrow "wick" at the top leading to a broader base. It's one of several impressive waterfalls in the area and has been declared a national monument.
Entry Fee: R5 per person
7. Mac Mac Falls
This 65-meter waterfall was originally a single stream but was split into two by miners during the gold rush era. Named after the Scottish miners who worked in the area, Mac Mac Falls has been declared a National Monument and features a viewing platform accessible by a short walk from the parking area.
Entry Fee: R15 per person
8. Pilgrim's Rest
This well-preserved gold rush town dates back to 1873 when alluvial gold was discovered in the area. Today, it's a living museum where you can step back in time and experience the heyday of the gold rush era. The entire town has been declared a national monument.
Key attractions in Pilgrim's Rest include:
- Historical church buildings (Sacred Heart Church, St Mary's Church, etc.)
- Dredzen Shop and House Museum
- Historic Cemetery
- Digging Museum & Gold Panning
- Printing Museum
- Arts and crafts shops
9. Graskop Gorge
Graskop Gorge features a unique glass elevator that descends 51 meters down the face of the gorge into an indigenous forest below. Once at the bottom, visitors can explore the forest via wooden walkways and learn about the local ecosystem.
Entry Fee: R240 for the elevator and forest trail
10. Lone Creek Falls
Located near Sabie, Lone Creek Falls is a beautiful 68-meter waterfall surrounded by indigenous forest. The site offers picnic facilities, a sandy beach for swimming, and a network of walking paths that allow visitors to view the falls from different angles.
Entry Fee: R30 per person
11. Sudwala Caves
Located slightly off the main Panorama Route, Sudwala Caves are among the oldest known caves in the world, estimated to be around 240 million years old. The cave system extends for about 30 kilometers, though only a small portion is open to the public. Regular tours take visitors through chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Entry Fee: R110 for the regular tour
Adventure Activities
The Panorama Route isn't just about scenic viewpoints and waterfalls; it also offers a range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers.
1. Graskop Gorge Zipline and Big Swing
At Graskop Gorge, adventurous visitors can experience the adrenaline rush of the Forest Zipline or the Big Swing, which sends you swinging across the gorge at high speed.
Fees: R250 for the zipline and R650 for the big swing
2. Hiking Trails
The area boasts numerous hiking trails catering to all fitness levels:
- Leopard Trail and Guinea Fowl Trail: A 9.5 km combined trail with an elevation gain of around 150 meters near Blyde Canyon
- Loerie Trail: A 10 km trail through pine and bluegum plantations, indigenous forests, and grasslands starting at the Ceylon Forest Station
- Fanie Botha Hiking Trail: An extended trail system connecting various points of interest in the region
3. Mountain Biking
The varied terrain of the Mpumalanga highlands provides excellent mountain biking opportunities, with routes suitable for different skill levels.
4. Boat Cruises on Blyde Dam
Take a boat cruise on Blyde Dam for a different perspective of the canyon. These cruises typically last around 1.5 hours and offer the chance to see wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Fee: Around R290 per person
5. Hot Air Ballooning
Experience the Panorama Route from above with a hot air balloon ride over the spectacular landscape.
6. White-Water Rafting
The rivers in the region offer opportunities for white-water rafting adventures, particularly during the rainy season when water levels are higher.
7. Abseiling
In Sabie, visitors can try abseiling experiences down rocky cliffs under professional guidance.
8. Gold Panning
Try your hand at gold panning in Pilgrim's Rest, where you can learn the techniques used by early prospectors and perhaps find a small gold nugget of your own.
Recommended Itineraries
1-Day Itinerary
If you only have one day to explore the Panorama Route, focus on the highlights:
- Morning: Start early at God's Window for the morning light, then visit Lisbon Falls and Berlin Falls
- Midday: Explore Bourke's Luck Potholes
- Afternoon: Visit the Three Rondavels viewpoint at Blyde River Canyon
- Evening: Return to your accommodation in Graskop or Hazyview
2-Day Itinerary
With two days, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace and see more attractions:
Day 1:
- Morning: Start at Pinnacle Rock
- Midday: Visit Mac Mac Pools, enjoy a short hike
- Afternoon: Explore the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon
- Evening: Dinner in Graskop
Day 2:
- Morning: Breakfast at Harrie's Pancakes in Graskop
- Midday: Visit Lone Creek Falls and Lisbon Falls
- Afternoon: Explore God's Window
- Evening: Return to your accommodation
3-Day Itinerary
A three-day itinerary allows you to add some adventure activities and explore at a leisurely pace:
Day 1: Follow the 1-day itinerary above
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Pilgrim's Rest and try gold panning
- Afternoon: Explore more waterfalls like Berlin Falls and Bridal Veil Falls
- Evening: Dinner in Sabie
Day 3:
- Morning: Experience adventure activities like the Graskop Gorge Zipline
- Midday: Take a boat cruise on Blyde Dam
- Afternoon: Visit Sudwala Caves
- Evening: Return to your accommodation or continue to Kruger National Park
Accommodation Options
The Panorama Route offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences:
Budget Options
- Backpacker hostels: From R250 per night for dorm beds
- Camping: Available in national parks and some private facilities
- Self-catering cottages: Budget-friendly options in towns like Graskop and Sabie
Mid-Range Options
- Wild Forest Inn: Located about 3km from Graskop, this chalet-style accommodation is ideal for couples and families
- Rustique: A guesthouse within walking distance of Graskop's shops and restaurants, offering themed rooms and a communal kitchen
- Lush: A modern yet rustic hotel in Graskop with comfortable rooms
- Sabie Self Catering Apartments: Comfortable apartments in the tranquil town of Sabie
Luxury Options
- Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort: Located about 50km from Graskop in Ohrigstad, offering chalet accommodations with proximity to hiking trails in the canyon area
- Misty Mountain: Offers luxurious lodging with stunning views near Sabie
- Floreat Riverside Lodge and Spa: A luxury option in Sabie with spa facilities
- The Royal Hotel in Pilgrim's Rest: A historic hotel offering a glimpse into the past while providing modern comforts
Where to Eat
The Panorama Route has several notable dining options:
Graskop
- Harrie's Pancakes: An institution famous for its sweet and savory pancakes
- Canimambo Restaurant: Offering Portuguese cuisine
- Divine Foods at The View: Enjoy meals with panoramic views
- Abe' at The Glass House: Highly rated restaurant with scenic vistas
- Graskop Market Café: Showcasing the best of South African cooking
Sabie
- The Wild Fig Tree Restaurant: Charming setting with good food
- Woodsman Restaurant and Pub: Authentic South African cuisine with warm hospitality
- Smokey Train Diner: Unique dining experience
Pilgrim's Rest
- Pilgrim's Pantry: Traditional South African fare
- Royal Hotel Dining Room: Historic setting with classic dishes
General Dining Tips
- Expect to pay R50-150 per meal at restaurants along the route
- Self-catering is an economical option, with groceries costing about R150 per day
- Try local specialties like biltong (dried cured meat) available at shops along the Panorama Route
- Many waterfalls and viewpoints have picnic facilities, so consider packing a lunch
Practical Travel Tips
Budgeting
- Daily Budget: R2,000-R4,000 per day for self-driving, depending on lodging and food choices
- Accommodation: From R250 for backpacker dorms to R800+ for high-end lodges
- Attraction Fees: Most sights charge R10-R40 per person
- Food: R50-150 per meal at restaurants; groceries about R150 per day
- Car Rental: From R300 per day plus fuel
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit during shoulder seasons for better accommodation rates
- Self-cater meals where possible
- Consider skipping Bourke's Luck Potholes (the most expensive attraction) if on a tight budget
- Arrive early at some attractions to potentially avoid entrance fees
- Bring a water bottle and snacks to avoid buying at premium prices
Driving Tips
- South Africans drive on the left side of the road
- Request an automatic car if you're unfamiliar with manual transmission
- Be cautious of potholes, especially after rain
- Avoid driving at night in rural areas
- Fill up your gas tank whenever possible as fuel stations can be sparse
- Drive carefully along winding mountain passes
- Be aware of wildlife and pedestrians on rural roads
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes for hiking and exploring viewpoints
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary throughout the day)
- Rain jacket or umbrella, especially in summer
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera with wide-angle lens for panoramic shots
- Insect repellent, particularly for mosquitoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Cash in small denominations for entrance fees
- Offline maps downloaded to your phone
Safety Tips
- Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle
- Stick to marked trails at viewpoints
- Be cautious near cliff edges, as some areas have extreme drops
- Respect safety barriers at all viewpoints
- Watch out for baboons and monkeys, which can be aggressive if they associate humans with food
- Carry emergency contact numbers
- Inform your accommodation of your planned route when heading out for the day
Combining with Kruger National Park
Many travelers combine their Panorama Route trip with a visit to Kruger National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations:
Access Points from the Panorama Route to Kruger:
- Phabeni Gate: Near Hazyview, approximately 45 minutes from Graskop
- Numbi Gate: Also accessible from Hazyview
- Paul Kruger Gate: A bit further south, near Skukuza Rest Camp
- Orpen Gate: Accessible from the northern section of the Panorama Route
Allow at least 2-3 days for the Panorama Route and 2-3 days for Kruger National Park. If you're planning to visit Kruger, leave early (around 5:30 am) to avoid congestion at the park gates.
Photography Tips
The Panorama Route is a photographer's dream, offering spectacular landscape opportunities:
- Golden Hours: Visit key viewpoints like God's Window and Three Rondavels during early morning or late afternoon for the best light
- Wide Angle: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas
- Panorama Mode: Use your smartphone's panorama feature for sweeping landscapes
- Polarizing Filter: Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the blue skies and lush greenery
- Best Spots: For iconic shots, focus on the Three Rondavels viewpoint, God's Window, and the various waterfalls
- Weather Watch: Be aware that mist and cloud can enhance or obscure your shots, depending on timing
- Patience: Wait for crowds to clear at popular viewpoints, especially if visiting during peak season
Conclusion
The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga deserves its reputation as one of South Africa's most scenic drives. With its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and range of activities, it offers something for every type of traveler.
Whether you're spending a single day driving through on your way to Kruger National Park or dedicating several days to fully explore its wonders, the Panorama Route promises an unforgettable South African experience. From the majesty of Blyde River Canyon to the historical charm of Pilgrim's Rest, from adrenaline-pumping adventure activities to peaceful nature walks, this region showcases the incredible diversity that makes South Africa such a compelling destination.
Plan your trip, pack your camera, and prepare to be amazed by the natural splendor of the Panorama Route – truly one of South Africa's greatest treasures.
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