From Graskop in the south or Hoedspruit to the northeast, embark on the discovery of Blyde River Canyon, one of the most spectacular gorges in the world.

The wild and sensuous landscape of Afrique du Sud perpetually stirs travel dreams. For your next getaway, let yourself be tempted by Blyde River Canyon, an immense gorge of red sandstone carved by a river and revealing incredible pigeon-hued vistas. From the Three Rondavels to the Pinnacle, from God's Window to Berlin Falls—a waterfall with the grace of a candle—the canyon promises moments of emotion and wonder.

Geological History of the Canyon

The river winding through the canyon is named "Blyde" or "happy." This name dates to 1844, when Dutch explorer Hendrik Potgieter and his team returned safely from Delagoa Bay. The explorers were so overjoyed that they blessed the waterway. In 2005, "Blyde River" was renamed "Motlatse River," along with the gorge's official designation.

The Motlatse River canyon is the third-largest canyon on the planet by dimension, with Fish River Canyon holding the title for largest in Afrique du Sud. The gorge cuts deeply and unfolds over 26 kilometers with spectacular geological formations: bare cliffs, crevasses, granite pinnacles, rock formations with shifting hues, sun-carved hillsides. Two waterfalls lend grandeur to this canyon, abandoned by humans yet inhabited by fascinating flora and fauna. One of those places where nature imposes itself as a supreme artist, where erosion, wind, water and time have conspired to create a masterpiece defying imagination.

Wildlife of the Canyon

Venturing into Blyde River Canyon means tracking wild fauna. You'll certainly encounter hippopotamuses and crocodiles wading in the river. The avian world holds the greatest curiosities. Many large raptors frequent the canyon, including the peregrine falcon hunting in flight, the crowned eagle, the African fish eagle and the Cape vulture. If you have a weakness for colorful species, the golden-tailed woodpecker and bronze-necked dove will pass before your binoculars in turn. Seasoned birdwatchers will be delighted by the narina trogon, an endemic African bird in green and red plumage whose numbers are steadily declining due to bush fires.

To make the most of the canyon, a detour through the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is essential. Entry permits are obtained from Forever Resort Blyde Canyon, whether or not you stay at the hotel. Different rates apply depending on which hiking trail you choose. The most popular itinerary is undoubtedly the Leopard Trail: a 14 km route offering glimpses of the canyon's finest panoramas. Primates and leopards frequent this trail, but there's more. You'll also enjoy swimming spots.

Venturing into Blyde River Canyon

The canyon welcomes one million visitors annually. This figure ranks it among the country's notable attractions, alongside Cape of Good Hope and Krüger National Park. Two days suffice to tour the gorge. Here are the geological wonders worth seeing:

• God's Window: this viewpoint is accessible by climbing the Drakensberg cliffs. Its appeal lies in its 700-meter altitude, allowing you to spot the mythical Krüger Park from afar;
• The Pinnacle: this rocky spur is another celebrated monument of Blyde River Canyon;
• Three Rondavels: erosion has sculpted three rock domes whose spherical shape recalls the thatched huts of tribal communities. Hence the name "rondavels" meaning "hut" in African languages. Rising to an altitude of 600 m, these viewpoints offer the most enchanting views of the canyon, river and grassland flora;
• The waterfalls: after a demanding hike, refresh yourself near the valley's cascades. Berlin Falls plunge more than 80 m, while Lisbon Falls drop over 94 meters. The impetuous roar of the water accompanies swimmers. By comparison, Berlin Falls charm with their candle-like grace, but both waterfalls rival each other for the quality of the natural pools.

Practical Information

Where is the canyon located?

Blyde River Canyon welcomes tourists to Graskop, a modest village in Mpumalanga, Afrique du Sud. From Johannesburg, the drive takes 4 hours.

If this is your first time traveling to the country, booking a car with driver is advisable. Signage is sparse, and you can easily get lost.

A base fee of 20 rand is required to enter the canyon, with additional charges depending on the areas you wish to explore.

What else is there to see nearby?

Beyond the canyon, other nearby attractions can enrich your stay:

• Krüger National Park;
• Mac-Mac Falls.