The Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world and among the greenest, a vast, lush gorge that is the highlight of the scenic Panorama Route in the mountains of Mpumalanga, near Kruger. Its series of spectacular viewpoints look out over towering cliffs, the winding river far below, and dramatic rock formations like the Three Rondavels and the potholes of Bourke's Luck, in a landscape of waterfalls and sweeping vistas.

What you actually see

• The Three Rondavels - the iconic rock formations above the canyon.
• God's Window - the sweeping viewpoint over the escarpment.
• Bourke's Luck Potholes - the strange water-carved rock formations.
• The waterfalls - the many cascades along the Panorama Route.

When to go

May to September, the dry season, for the clearest views, as the summer can bring mist and cloud that hide the famous vistas; go in the morning before cloud builds. It pairs perfectly with a Kruger safari nearby.

Honest expectations

The famous viewpoints, especially God's Window, are often shrouded in mist and cloud, hiding the view, so a clear morning is key. It is a driving route of scattered stops rather than a single hike, so a car is needed. It combines naturally with Kruger, making a superb few days in the northeast.

Nearby

Kruger National Park is close, making an easy safari-and-scenery combination; Graskop is the base.