Region
Panorama Route
South Africa's most breathtakingly scenic road trip route
The Panorama Route connects the Lowveld and the Mpumalanga Drakensberg and is arguably one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. This scenic route consists of natural attractions and panoramic viewpoints, all centred around the lushly vegetated Blyde River Canyon. An ideal self-drive adventure crossing indigenous forest, rolling hills, and Lowveld plains, this road trip features loads of activities and natural wonders. The area can be discovered through hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, and much more. In between, visitors can stop at small charming towns to buy souvenirs at arts and crafts shops and grab a bite at the many restaurants, or visit Pilgrim’s Rest, a living museum dating back to the late 1800s.
Highlights
1
Admire the world's third largest canyon, the unforgettable Blyde River Canyon.
2
Walk up to God’s Window, a cliff top viewpoint, for breathtaking views over the Lowveld.
3
Capture the many picturesque waterfalls cascading into and over the gorges and cliffs.
4
View the Pinnacle, a free-standing rock needle rising up from the forest below.
5
See Bourke’s Luck Potholes, natural cylindrical formations caused by water erosion.
6
Visit the Three Rondavels viewpoint for a view of the 3 huge rock formations resembling giant huts.
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Best time to go to Panorama Route
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Good
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The best time to visit the Panorama Route area is when temperatures are mild, so during the spring and autumn months, from September to November and March to May. When visiting during the cooler, drier winter months between June and August, this season offers clearer views of the natural attractions due to the lower rainfall, but as it is a popular time it can be quite busy. The summer months from December to February bring misty, rainy days resulting in poor visibility and roads that are harder to navigate. However, the landscape will be lush and green.
Featured Panorama Route stays
AfriCamps at Mackers
A scenic glamping getaway that lies on the undisturbed Sabie River banks
From$53 /ppn
Facilities