Graskop Gorge

An uplifting experience

The Lift

Just south of Graskop along the R533 you will find the Graskop Gorge Lift Company. Open daily from 8.30 am to 5 pm, it is centrally located on the Panorama Route. It is an ideal stopover point, whether it be for the view, the forest, the food or the various adventure activities. Such as guided tours and hikes in the surrounding area.

One of Mpumalanga’s most exciting new tourism developments, it offers something for everyone. Set in a pristine natural environment, the experience starts with an enchanting 51-metre elevator ride. All the way down a cliff into the cool gorge below.

Otis manufactured the Graskop Gorge Lift and it is certainly a triumph in engineering. It carries 26 passengers. Which is partially glass-fronted. Thus, providing truly spectacular views across the escarpment. It takes about a minute to complete a trip down. The lift is wheelchair-accessible (as is part of the trail).

The Graskop Gorge

Down in the gorge, an extensive network of sturdy elevated walkways and suspension bridges lead from the spectacular 80-metre Panorama Falls along the Motitsi River on a 600-metre forest trail.

Geared towards eco-education, the numerous interactive exhibits along the way provide fascinating background information on the surrounding ecosystems.

The Centre

The activity centre at the top has enough to keep visitors busy for a few hours. It includes a coffee shop/restaurant, The Lift Café, and art gallery. Also, a curio shop and informal arts & crafts stalls are available.

The Big Swing

From here, you can watch the brave take on The Big Swing. Certainly the world’s highest cable gorge swing.

The jump can be done solo or in tandem with a partner. Participants are strapped into safety harnesses upright. Because this is better to enjoy the spectacular views on the 70-metre/140 km/hour freefall!

The Zipline

For the slightly less adventurous. Firstly, there is a 130m high-wire zipline across the gorge.

As well as a spectacular 52-metre suspension bridge spanning the gorge might be more to taste.

Good to know

  • The trail has six interpretation exhibits. Thus includes information about the forest and its biodiversity. Also, information about water conservation, birds and insects. Moreover, the trail includes giant replicas of indigenous mushrooms. Not to mention the stunning stained-glass window.
  • You can complete the trail in about an hour. Although not too strenuous, it has several stairs and steep inclines. The first part is accessible to all, also including wheelchairs.
  • The climate is generally wet, so it can be slippery in sections. The decks have been fitted with anti-slip treads but caution should always be taken.

What to take

  • Comfortable rubber-soled walking shoes, so not to slip.
  • In the rain or if the waterfall is full, we recommend either a rain coat or umbrella
  • Camera and binoculars
  • Also, water

To see more, including up-to-date rates and information, visit Graskop Gorge Lift Company

For other activities in and around Jacana River Lodge click here

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