10 Things you didn’t know about the Panorama Route

The world-famous Panorama Route starts from Long Tom Pass near Sabie and follows the escarpment through Sabie, Graskop, and up the Blyde River Canyon.

You will find magnificent views, rich in history, and a multitude of waterfalls along this scenic route. Curious about the Panorama Route? Here is a list of interesting facts about the Panorama Route and its stunning landscape.

The largest green canyon in the world

The Panorama Route is home to Blyde River Canyon, the largest green canyon in the world! This green canyon has subtropical vegetation and home to some of Mpumalanga’s most iconic landmarks, including the Three Rondawels, and the Blyde Dam.

7 Waterfalls

There are 7 spectacular waterfalls to visit around the Panorama Route, including the Mac Mac Falls, Lisbon Falls, and Berlin Falls!

Pilgrims Rest

In the 1870s, the small town of Pilgrims Rest was filled with hopeful South Africans looking for gold. It was named a National Monument in 1986 and since then, tourists flock to the town to learn more about South Africa’s gold rush.

Drakensberg Mountain Range

The Drakensberg Mountain Range is the largest mountain range in South Africa stretching over 1,000km from Eastern Cape, Kwa-Zulu Natal, and ending in Limpopo. The Panorama Route forms a part of this extravagant mountain range, with its multiple viewpoints and landmarks.

God’s Window

God’s Window is one of the most popular viewpoints along the Panorama. It is situated 900m above the Lowveld and its view stretches out for kilometres (even seeing Mozambique on a clear day) – perfect for a photo opportunity!

Graskop

Graskop is one of the Panorama’s central towns and is a hub for tourist activity. It is 1 hour from the Kruger National Park and is surrounded by the Panorama Route’s finest views and attractions.

Hiking Trails

The Panorama Route has no shortage of hiking trails! Some trails are easy 2km walks, whereas some are 14km circular trails that are perfect for the advanced hiker. Whichever trail you take will showcase some of the Panorama Route’s amazing scenery!

Kruger National Park

The Panorama neighbours the Kruger National Park and a game drive is an excellent addition to your exploration! The Kruger Park is within an hour’s drive from the Panorama Route, making it another ‘must visit’ destination!

Blue Swallows

Blue Swallows are beautiful blue metallic birds that swoop over Mpumalanga’s plains every year. Due to forestation, their numbers have been dwindling every year. The Blue Swallow National Heritage Site,  situated just outside of the small village of Kaapsehoop near Nelspruit, now hosts the largest population of blue swallows each year.

Graskop Gorge Lift

The Graskop Gorge Lift travels 51m down the Graskop Gorge into the rich forest below. With 442 steps leading up to the top of the Gorge, you can spot a large variety of birds, as well as stunning plant life. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can freefall 70m down the gorge with the Big Swing!

The Panorama Route is a ‘bucket-list’ destination for all travellers! Take a day tour to visit some of its many beautiful landmarks.

Looking for activities around the Panorama Route? Take a look at our Top Adventures in the Panorama Route Reel.