Panorama Route South Africa
Experience the stunning beauty of South Africa’s Panorama Route, from the amazing Blyde River Canyon to God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels. Stop along the way to explore the amazing waterfalls and lush subtropical forests.
Summary
- Attraction Name: Panorama Route
- Country: South Africa
- Continent: African
- Capital Name: Pretoria, Cape Town, Bloemfontein
- Language: English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, Sepedi, Tswana, Southern Sotho, Tsonga, Swazi, Venda, Southern Ndebele, Khoekhoegowab
- Currency: South African Rand
- Nationality: South African
Introduction
The Panorama Route is a spectacular route along the Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga province in the northeastern region of South Africa. It is one of the most scenic drives in the country, offering breathtaking views of the Drakensberg Mountains, lush green forests, rural villages, and spectacular waterfalls. The Panorama Route extends from the village of Graskop to the town of Pilgrim’s Rest, covering many of the province’s top attractions along the way.
Highlights of the Panorama Route include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a natural water feature carved out of rock by centuries of riverine erosion, God’s Window, a lookout point with stunning vista, and Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world. Other sights of interest are Hippo Pools, the Mac Mac Pools, Lisbon Falls, and the traditional gold mining village of Pilgrim’s Rest. The Panorama Route is a fantastic way to explore the beauty and history of South Africa.
Things to Do
The Panorama Route is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South Africa, located within the Mpumalanga province and stretching along the mountainous escarpment of the Drakensberg escarpment. The 185 mile long Panorama Route encompasses numerous must-see locations, perfect for a varied and exciting South African holiday.
Firstly, the Blyde River Canyon is a superb example of the magnificent beauty to be seen along the Panorama Route. Its unusual rock formations and crystal clear cascades draw adventurers from all over the world. One can even experience the amazing panoramas of the rugged terrain from a leisurely cruise on a tour boat. This experience is definitely a highlight of a holiday on the Panorama Route.
The God’s Window lookout is another must-see attraction on the Panorama Route. From this 835 metre high point, the vastness of the Lowveld scenery is breathtaking.
For those looking to soak in some culture, Pilgrim’s Rest is a living museum where one can explore the once prosperous goldfields dating back to the 1870s. The town is a unique testament of South African history, having been declared a national monument in 1986. The streets, shops and houses remain as they were at the height of the gold rush.
For the more daring holidaymaker, the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre offers an exciting chance to come eye-to-eye with the Big Five animals. The centre consists of multiple enclosures and aviaries specifically housing and rehabilitating the most endangered species from the South African region.
Other attractions that the Panorama Route promises to deliver, include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Lisbon Falls, Mac Mac Falls and the Three Rondavels. With so much to explore and do, the Panorama Route is an ideal holiday destination and great outdoor experience.
Best Foods
The best foods to enjoy when visiting the Panorama Route in South Africa are: the traditional South African braai (barbecue); biltong (dried meat snack); potjiekos (a stew cooked in a potjie pot over coals); crispy roast sweet potatoes; delicious South African curries; fresh seafood like prawns, calamari, and salmon; hearty stews; freshly baked breads; Bobotie (a hearty meat pie); and Malva pudding (a sweet and sticky cake). Finally, don’t miss out on an opportunity to try South Africa’s unique selection of local wines.
Best Hotels
The best hotels to stay in Panorama Route South Africa are:
- Kruger View Chalets (Hazyview)
- Sabie River Bush Lodge (Hoedspruit)
- Ngwenya Lodge (Bushbuckridge)
- Hippo Hollow Country Estate (Hazyview)
- Perry’s Bridge Hollow Boutique Hotel (Hazyview)
- Blyde Canyon Forever Resort (Graskop)
- Guernsey Private Nature Reserve (Graskop)
- Swadini Forever Resort (Hazyview)
- Hazyview Cabanas (Hazyview)
- Whispering Cycads Safari Lodge (Kruger National Park)
