Blyde River Canyon
Blyde River Canyon, Pilgrims Rest & the Sabie waterfalls lie in the Drakensberg escarpment close to the Kruger and offers welcome relaxation after the excitement of your safari.
Scroll for more
Blyde River Canyon, Pilgrims Rest & the Sabie waterfalls lie in the Drakensberg escarpment close to the Kruger and offers welcome relaxation after the excitement of your safari.
Scroll for more
The Blyde River Canyon region is our name for the beautiful mountainous escarpment close to the Kruger National Park. It encompasses the Blyde River Canyon,Β waterfallsΒ and walking trails of Sabie andΒ Graskop.Β Plus,Β the various excursions and adventure activitiesΒ aroundΒ the adventure hub ofΒ Hazyview.Β
This beautiful area is ideal for a couple of days of relaxation after the excitement of your Kruger safari.Β Alternatively,Β it acts as a relaxing break between two safari regions, as it is only 1-2Β hoursΒ drive from the Kruger National Park,Β andΒ only 3-4 hours from Johannesburg.Β Β
The Blyde River Canyon itself is a majestic red sandstone gorge with sheer cliffs. Plunging 1000 metres into the river below; it is nothing less than magnificent.Β The well-known βPanoramaΒ Routeβ is the scenic drive alongside the canyon. The route visits various viewpoints such as Godβs Window, the Three Rondavels,Β LisbonΒ and Berlin waterfallsΒ andΒ the interestingΒ Bourne Luck potholes. InΒ fact,Β the canyon is the third largest river-formed canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia.Β
HereΒ you'llΒ find a host of walking trails, connecting the many waterfalls. Whilst betweenΒ HazyviewΒ andΒ Sabie, there are a host of soft adventure activities on offer. These include theΒ GraskopΒ Gorge LiftΒ experience, treetop or gorge ziplining, quad biking, abseiling and some canyoning experiences. (Note that the canyoning is only in in late summer season, due to water levels.)Β
Accommodation here leans towardsΒ convivial country lodges and boutique retreats, known for excellent food, sweeping views and a restorative counterpoint to the intensity of safari days.Β
How long should I spend in the Blyde River Canyon region?
Two to three nights allows time to explore the Panorama Route, enjoy a few walks or activities, and relax, especially when paired with a Kruger safari.Β
When is the best time to visit Blyde River Canyon?
The area can be visited year-round. Summer (NovβMarch) brings lush greenery and full waterfalls, while winter offers clearer skies and cooler walking conditions.Β
Is Blyde River Canyon suitable for families?
Yes, the region works well for families, with flexible activities, shorter walks, scenic drives and lodges that cater comfortably to children.Β
Only the best African travel advice, tidbits and tours. No nonsense.
