Panorama Route, Mpumalanga

The Panorama Route starts at, Nelspruit where you can go visit the Lowveld Botanical Garden. It moves on to White River where you can go play Golf and visit a Motor Museum. Sabie, brings tons of adventure with activities like 4x4 trips and abseiling. Pilgrims Rest has a few spectacular pubs and restaurants, which is a must if you want to experience the culture of the Town. Graskop is the highlight of the Panorama Route, with attractions like:

*God's Window

*Lisbon Falls

*Berlin Falls

*Mac-mac Falls

*the Pinnacle

*Bourkes Luck Potholes, and

*Blyde River Canyon

( Kate O'Malley's Article has been used, in the production of this writing. That article was last updated: October 23, 2022)

"The magnificent Panorama Route in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province is one of the Continents great Natural Wonders and one of the World’s most beautiful driving routes." The Mountainous Escarpment of the Mpumalanga Highlands is famed for the stunning views of the Lowveld and some of the Province’s most spectacular scenery. Centred around the Blyde River Canyon, the World’s third largest Canyon, the Panorama Route offers a dramatic terrain of lush Mountain Peaks scarred with ochre Cliff faces. Dozens of magnificent Waterfalls, raging Rivers and one of the largest Areas of converted (land) into Forest, especially for Commercial exploitation in South Africa.

While many may take the Panorama Route as an afterthought to the undeniable lure of the regions game parks, its proximity to Kruger National Park and other famous private reserves make it a perfect addition to any safari holiday. Another option is to take a few days and drive the Panorama Route from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park. More than just awe inspiring Landscape! This spectacular example of South Africa’s beautiful 'Natural Wonders' is found whilst visiting the Panorama Route! (This Route also offers plenty of other activities too.)

Planning A Panorama Route Drive-

How Long to Spend on the Panorama Route:

a) * 2-3 Day Panorama Route Itinerary- Wondering how long to spend on the Panorama Route? With so much to see along the Route, the Area deserves at least two to three days to spend enough time at each place and enjoy the Region. "To rush the Panorama Route would be to miss so much of the beauty!"

b) * 1 Day Panorama Route Itinerary- If you only want to see the big ticket attractions, the main sights are clustered in three Areas. Within these clusters, many of the attractions are just a short drive to the next. So, if you were short on time, it is feasible to tick off the highlights on a good, all though long day, trip itinerary.

(A one day Panorama Route tour is better than missing the Panorama Route altogether and an excellent addition to a Kruger National Park itinerary. Especially those who are only allowing one night and day for Kruger!) "However, if you do have the time, there is much to be seen and experienced on the Panorama Route beyond the main Natural Attractions!"

c) or you could join a Panorama Route Set Tour- which there are many to choose from. The Tours are a either a full or half day, leaving mostly from, Hazyview. Hazyview, Sabie and Graskop are often the most popular Towns to base yourself, if you do plan a self-drive Panorama Route itinerary over a couple of days. However, for our Panorama Route accommodation, we found a semi self-contained B&B in Ohrigstad ideally positioned for exploring the most famous stretches of the Panorama Route and Blyde River Nature Reserve.

"It was a much less tourist-dense experience than say; Graskop and located in some stunning Countryside! The perfect place to chill around the braai-(South African BBQ), after a day of exploring.  allowed ourselves three nights based on driving from Johannesburg. This gave us plenty of time to explore more than just the main attractions without rushing."

The most popular stretch of the Route is the R532 which runs from the Town of Sabie, past some of the Area’s most spectacular, Waterfalls to God’s Window, the Blyde River Canyon, the Three Rondavels and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. The famous Lowveld View is less than 5 km North of Bourke’s Luck Potholes. A spectacular view which is 1 219 metres above sea level, over the canyon! This is where the Blyde River cuts its way through the Valleys with the Blydepoort Dam in the distance! Aside from the main Natural Sights,  ( "There are also many other attractions worth visiting, far more attractions than you can be seen in one day.") Some of these are: The Hoedspruit 'Endangered Species Centre'-(LINK PROVIDED IN FURTHER READING) was one of our favourite experiences; The 'Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre'-(LINK  PROVIDED IN FURTHER READING); or the beautiful: '24 Degrees South Country Estate'-(LINK PROVIDED IN FURTHER READING). 

The Panorama Routes popularity is not just its proximity to Kruger National Park. It is the gateway to one of the Province’s major scenic draw cards, the Blyde River Canyon Reserve. One of the largest Canyons in the World and the second-largest on the continent. This is one of South Africa’s most impressive Natural Landmarks, up there with Table Mountain.

"Whether marvelling at the canyon itself or the Three Rondavels, without a doubt, this is the most awe-inspiring stop along the Panorama Route. A magnificent vista of rocky Peaks and deep Valleys of dense Forest where Cliff edges can drop a staggering 800 metres. The Blyde River snakes through the canyon until it reaches the pristine Blydepoort Dam, a bright contrast of blue in the lush forest that surrounds it. The best Time to Visit Blyde River Canyon Early morning or late in the afternoon are the best times for this lookout. As the area is such a major tourist drawcard, it can get hectic. It is much nicer to enjoy the view without crowds of tour groups. The afternoon offers better light for photographers."

The Three Rondavels is also called the Three Sisters. They are three massive rock edifices of dolomite rock rising from the Blyde River Canyon. One of the three iconic landmarks in Blyde River Canyon Reserve. These Three Rondavels take their name from the traditional African huts they resemble. A Rondavel is a style of African hut known in literature as cone on cylinder or cone on drum. The word comes from the Afrikaans' rondawel'. Description The rondavel is usually round or oval in shape and is traditionally made with materials that can be locally found in raw form. Its walls are often constructed from stones. An overwhelmingly beautiful view formed by the slow erosion of the underlying soft stone, leaving exposed quartzite and shale that form the 700 meter high rondavels. (Entrance Fee to the Three Rondavels: R10 – R30 per vehicle depending on the size. R50 for buses, this was the price in 2022.)

Bourke Luck Potholes and the Mac-Mac Falls are some of South Africa’s most fascinating Geological formations, Bourke’s Luck Potholes in the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is a striking natural phenomenon formed over millennia. Churning whirlpools at the confluence of the Treur and Blyde rivers have gradually etched away at the rock faces leaving cylindrical potholes in the bedrock. The Potholes are named after the gold digger Tom Bourke, who staked a claim nearby. A series of bridges allow visitors to walk above these beautiful pools as the river continues to carve away at the rock twenty metres below. This spot is a must for photographers. Bourke’s Luck Potholes Visitor’s Centre and Picnic Spot The Bourke’s Luck Potholes area has a large picnic site, and Visitors Centre, so is an excellent spot to stop for lunch or refreshments. As with many of the stops along the Panorama Route, monkeys can be a problem! Be sure to lock your car and watch your belongings. (Entrance Fee to Bourke’s Luck Potholes: R30 per person plus R20 per car – R50 per van – R70 per bus, this was the price in 2022)

The Waterfalls on the Panorama Route are: a) of a very High Altitude and b) a Rocky Landscape. Thus making it the perfect environment for more than ten awe-inspiring Waterfalls. The most dramatic, at over 90m, Lisbon Falls is the highest in the Province. The beautiful Mac Mac, have been declared a National Monument. (These Falls have a Viewing Platform so that the entire 70-meter drop, can be viewed from above!)

The Berlin Falls is a stunning 45-metre drop of water cascading down impressive ochre cliffs into a sapphire pool. Many of these 'Waterfall Stops', make great places for a Picnic or Gas Braai (LINK PROVIDED IN FURTHER READING). There are several swimming spots as well as barbecue and picnic facilities at the base of Mac Mac Falls. A popular spot, as there is also a 3km bird trail here popular with hikers and twitchers. Entrance Fee to Waterfalls on the Panorama Route: Expect to pay a minimum of R10 per car, to access the Waterfalls.(2022)

Roughly 2km from Mac Mac falls you will find the Mac Mac Pools. With a picturesque organised Picnic Site tucked under pine trees alongside the Mac Mac River. Named for the Scottish Miners who panned for Gold there. The River flows into crystal clear Rock Pools where Visitors can swim in the crisp Mountain water. (The Area also has Picnic Areas, Braai Facilities and Toilet facilities.)

Entrance Fee to Mac Mac Pools: R20 per person (2022) God’s Window.

The Wonder View and the Pinnacle These are: 'The Wonder View'. North of Graskop, take a turn onto the R534 and drive a loop past three spectacular lookout points on the edge of the Mpumalanga Drakensberg Escarpment. The R534 loop ends 4km past the Wonder View, bringing you back onto the R532. (Make sure you use your: 'Wide Angle Lens' or switch to 'Panorama View', on your camera for these photos!) The Pinnacle – A freestanding natural skyscraper of rock rising vertically out of the dense forest. Two separate viewing decks give you different perspectives of this impressive vista.

Entrance Fee to the Pinnacle: R10 per car (in 2022)

God’s Window – A 900m high viewpoint where the entire Mpumalanga Lowveld stretches spectacularly out through a lush Forest clad ravine. On a bright day, the view reaches all the way to Mozambique, over 200km away.

Entrance Fee to God’s Window R10 (in 2022)

'Wonder View'- This is the highest viewpoint on the Panorama Route at 1730 m above Sea Level, 'The Wonder View', delivers a vista of the Lowveld on par with 'God’s Window'. No Entrance Fee to Wonder View: (Just pull over on the side of the road!)

Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga

Pilgrim’s Rest is one of few Towns in South Africa that has kept its Historical legacy intact. So much so that, Pilgrim’s Rest has been declared a National Monument. The whole Town, is a "Living and Historical Moment from the Past. With all the costumes and architecture being representative of this: Gold Mining Era!". The History of Pilgrims Rest, dates back to 1873 when a miner, Alex Patterson, discovered Alluvial Gold. Although he kept his discovery secret, the second discovery by prospector William Trafford, spurred the inevitable! It wasn’t long before optimistic panners, and prospectors from all over South Africa, and the World came to the Area. By later that year, Pilgrim’s Rest was proclaimed a Gold Field and the initial scatter of Tents and Shacks, soon grew into a flourishing little Village. Pilgrim’s Rest now has an abundance of Historical Buildings, Museums, Arts and Crafts Shops and plenty of places to stop for a meal or a drink including the Royal Hotel or the Old Saloon Bar. This is a favourite lunch stop with day tourists to the area and base for those driving the Panorama Route over a number of days. Graskop, Mpumalanga Established in the 1880's as a gold mining camp, Graskop though, now serves as a Tourist Destination and the Timber Industry. "Graskop does not quite have the same charm as Pilgrim’s Rest, but by it’s sheer proximity to some of the Panorama Routes premier sites, it is worth a visit! The big draw card to Graskop was the ability to stock up on a few self-catering essentials for our evening Braai!" (The allure for tourists who aren’t basing themselves in Graskop is a 'Lunch Stop' at the famous 'Harries Pancakes', in the Main Street (LINK PROVIDED IN FURTHER READING).

If you are self-driving, a picnic or braai at one of the designated picnic spots is far more pleasing. "If you are thinking of basing yourself in Graskop, it is in a convenient location and has plenty of accommodation, shops and restaurants!"

The Best Time to Visit the Panorama Route-

Much like Kruger, the is in the cooler months of Winter, when there is less rain. But also much like Kruger, each season brings its own unique viewing opportunities.

While the Panorama Route is primarily known for its scenic attractions, there is also abundant wildlife, if you are on the 'Lookout'-(viewing deck). The colder months mean lower grass and less foliage on trees so more opportunity for wildlife sightings. Winter is the best time to take a trip to the Blyde River Canyon Reserve and the Panorama Route. This is during the cooler dryer months between May and August. The driving conditions will be better and the views clearer. The Summer wet season brings with it rain and mist which can make driving unpleasant and can hinder some of the more spectacular views. Although; Summer is the best time for brilliant displays of white and pink wildflowers.

Hiking in the Panorama Route-

While it may be one of South Africa’s most scenic self-drive routes, it doesn’t mean the Panorama Route can only be explored by car!

From short and easy half-day trails to more advance 5-day hikes through the Blyde River Canyon itself. The Panorama Route and the Blyde River Canyon Reserve offer hiking trails to suit all kinds of hikers and fitness levels. Just as spectacular Waterfalls are plentiful, so are Hiking Trails. Many of which go hand-in-hand such as:

The 3.5km hike to the bottom of the Forest Falls OR The 3km Secretary Bird Trail, from Mac Mac Falls. OR The 2 km Kadishi Trail into the picturesque ravine of the Canyon is a great hike for any age or fitness level. Dotted with waterfalls and swimming holes, it offers many swimming and picnic opportunities. For a full day hike, take the circular Loerie Trail. 14 km of mostly level hiking that takes you through stunning pine plantations. Or, for something more advanced, the Fanie Botha Trail and Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trails offer 3 – 5 day hikes.

Where to Stay on the Panorama Route-

Your Panorama Route accommodation choice depends on how you choose to do the route and how long you have! In addition to the main Towns, you will also find various styles of guesthouses and B&B accommodation scattered throughout the Area for those who want to get away and appreciate the landscape:

Graskop-

Graskop is closest to the main attractions and considered the best place to base yourself. It has plenty of accommodation catering to all styles of traveller and budgets and offers the convenience of town for those who do not wish to self-cater.

Sabie and Hazyview-

If you are coming to or from Kruger; Sabie and Hazyview may be more convenient. Although, they are further from the main attractions of the Panorama Route. Hazyview has the best facilities in the Area for fuel and supplies.

Ohrigstad-

This Town is away from the central tourist places but still in a good location for easy access to all the major and not so major attractions. The only downfall, if you wish to self-cater. You need to plan and purchase provisions in advance or along your drives as the Town itself only has very basic general stores.

How to Get to the Blyde River Canyon Reserve and the Panorama Route-

Driving from Johannesburg to the Mpumalanga Province will take around five hours. Alternatively, you can fly into closer cities such as Nelspruit and hire a car from there. (Many visitors going to Kruger National Park do this and incorporate the Panorama Route in their itinerary.)

Road Conditions on the Panorama Route For the most part, the roads around the Panorama Route are in overall good condition, so driving is not stressful. "Just keep an eye out for roadworks and the occasional pothole." You can also visit the Panorama Route as part of an Organised Tour. This will be your best choice, as you can just take in the spectacular scenery, which is over the Years getting easier to get too! (Although the roads around the Panorama Route are in overall good condition, so driving is not stressful but just keep an eye out for roadworks and the occasional pothole.)

Car Hire in South Africa-

Car hire from Johannesburg is very affordable, especially for a compact 4-door Vehicle, (which is fine for the Panorama Route!)

BUT it is suggested you check any policy carefully as we are not aware of any insurance policy that covers car damage sustained by wild animals. (Yes, this is a real possibility!)

What to Pack for The Panorama Route-

While this is not an extensive packing list, these are a few items you may want to pack to make your drive of the Panorama Route more enjoyable. These things will also hold you in good stead if you are also planning on visiting Kruger National Park.:

Comfortable Walking Shoes It goes without saying; you are going to need some comfortable shoes when visiting South Africa. Make sure these shoes are appropriate for the season and the activity you are going to undertake! Dress for Climate & Conditions- Sun protection in Africa is an obvious requirement. It is also important to note Malaria is endemic in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces, including the Kruger Park. (While the risk of contracting Malaria on the Panorama Route is low, especially in the dry season – roughly May to October, it is still prudent to take preventative measures. If also planning on visiting Kruger Park, it would probably be even more prudent, particularly during the high-risk months of summer.) Of course, this is an entirely personal choice. 

MALARIA PREVENTION- We did, however, take extra precautions to prevent mosquito bites in the Northern parts of South Africa. Bite prevention is still the main defence against contracting malaria. As malaria-carrying mosquitos are most active between dusk and dawn, covering up is your best defence. In addition to using insect repellents, mosquito coils and nets, clothing plays a significant role in keeping mosquitoes from biting.

The Panorama Route ends at the Swadini Forever Resort, which has tons of outdoor activities from Boat Trips to Microlight fights.