The Panorama Route in South Africa runs along the steep slope in the Mpumalanga province, separating the Highveld from the Lowveld through the Drakensberg Mountains. With waterfalls, viewpoints, and the impressive Blyde River Canyon, the route is popular. "Pinnacle Rock," "Jock's View," and "God's Window" are worthwhile stops. The 30 km long "Blyde River Canyon" is one of the most significant canyons, with "Mariepskop" as its highest point. The road continues to the former gold mining town "Pilgrim's Rest," known for the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and tobacco.
Three Rondavels, distinctive rocks on the northern edge of the canyon. God's Window offers impressive views of rock clefts and steep slopes. Bourke's Luck Potholes, swirl holes and basins formed by water erosion in red sandstone. Pilgrim's Rest, a historic village, now a living museum. Graskop and Vaalhoek are other important places along the route, characterized by pine and eucalyptus plantations. Recommended stops include the MacMac Waterfall and the Berlin Falls.
THINGS TO DO
- Panorama lift ride with the Graskop Gorge Lift, ziplining, or bungee jumping (all offers here: (www.graskopgorgeliftcompany.co.za)
- 2.5-hour ziplining in the Sabie River Valley (www.skywaytrails.com)
- Elephant Whispers in Hazyview (www.elephantwhispers.co.za)
- Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (www.hesc.co.za)
- Explore Blyde River Canyon by boat on a day trip (www.triphobo.com/tours/full-day-blyde-dam-cruise-and-moholoholo-tour-from-hazyview).
ANKE'S TIPS
- Scenic helicopter flight over the Blyde River Canyon for 1 hour or 1.5 hours with Unique Air (www.uniqueair.co.za/helicopter-scenic-flight)
- Horseback ride through the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate among giraffes, zebras, and various other wildlife! (www.africandreamhorsesafari.co.za)
