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 (https://blydecanyon.co.za/boat-trips/).
OUR 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)
Nestled within the lush plains and dense bushveld of the Greater Kruger National Park network, Sabi Sands Reserve offers an unparalleled wildlife experience that will captivate you.
Covering an impressive 65,000 hectares, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve is renowned as one of Africa's oldest and most prestigious private wildlife reserves. The safari lodges here are globally acclaimed for superb big cat sightings. What sets Sabi Sands apart is its unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to roam freely and utilize ancient migration routes unhindered. This unique setup provides exceptional opportunities to observe the majestic Big Five and a variety of other species in their natural habitat.
The rangers and guides who lead safaris are highly trained, possessing deep knowledge of the region's wildlife and flora. With their passion and expertise, they not only take you to spectacular wildlife viewing spots but also impart a deeper understanding of the reserve's fascinating ecosystems.
Another highlight of Sabi Sands Reserve is its strict limit on the number of vehicles allowed during game drives, ensuring authentic and undisturbed wildlife encounters. This exclusivity enables guests to savor the tranquility and beauty of the wilderness in its full glory.
As Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve isn't a national park, guests can enjoy the benefits of a private reserve. Alongside traditional game drives, activities such as guided bush walks, night safaris, and bush breakfasts can be arranged in consultation with your safari lodge. Additionally, the rangers have the flexibility to drive off-road, allowing safari vehicles to approach wildlife carefully and respectfully.
Officially known as the ‘Kingdom of eSwatini’ and still referred to as Swaziland, this tiny landlocked nation boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage and is Africa's last remaining absolute monarchy. Swaziland encompasses a diverse array of ecosystems featuring towering mountains and low-lying savannah, tangled rainforests and lush river valleys. Highlights of this laid-back land include the mesmerizingly beautiful ‘Valley of Heaven’, the handicraft haven of the Malkerns Valley and the Hlane Royal National Park, famed for its white rhinos, antelopes and lions. Visitors can look forward to excellent wildlife watching, rafting, mountain biking, and hiking along a network of scenic trails which traverse spectacular mountainous landscapes.
The UNESCO-protected Maputaland Marine Protected Area, situated on South Africa's northeast coast, lies within the impressive iSimangaliso Wetland Park and comprises three reserves: Lake Sibaya Nature Reserve, Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, and Rocktail Bay. It stretches from the northern Mozambican border to Sodwana Bay in the south, encompassing forests, wetlands, lakes, marshes, and coral reefs near magnificent, secluded golden sand beaches.
The MMPA spans an extensive coastline and includes coastal wetlands, mangrove forests, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. These diverse habitats provide an ideal environment for a plethora of marine life, including colorful corals, fish, turtles, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds.
For nature enthusiasts and adventurers, the MMPA offers a wealth of activities to explore. Snorkel along the coral reefs and discover a fascinating underwater world teeming with colors and life. Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of underwater archaeology and explore sunken shipwrecks and historical artifacts. Take boat trips along the coast and observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
Encircled by the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, St Lucia is South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. St Lucia lies on the magnificent St Lucia Estuary which is one of the largest in Africa stretching over 85 kilometres. It features abundant wildlife, pristine natural beauty, and offers a wide range of wonderful activities. This haven of tranquillity offers excellent mountain biking, hiking, bird watching and deep-sea fishing. Visitors can also look forward to thrilling night drive safaris, hippo and crocodile cruises, and many comfortable accommodation options.
Situated on the Indian Ocean coastline just north of Durban, Umhlanga is an upmarket seaside town renowned for its golden beaches, modern lifestyle and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The town's palm-lined promenade stretches alongside the ocean, inviting leisurely walks, cycling and whale watching during the migration season. The iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and scenic Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve add natural and historical appeal, while nearby shopping centres, restaurants and cafés create a lively social scene. Warm waters and lifeguarded beaches make swimming and surfing popular throughout much of the year. Combining easy access to Durban with a polished resort feel, Umhlanga is an excellent base for both beach holidays and exploring the wider KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
