One of the country’s most scenic self-drives, the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga. It explores the Mpumalanga highlands, or the north-eastern section of the Great Escarpment of the Drakensberg. In these rugged mountains the plateau comes to an abrupt and dramatic halt. Then, falling steeply away into the Lowveld, creating incredible views out over the grasslands of Africa.
The Panorama Route’s popularity has much to do with its proximity to the Kruger National Park. It is often part and parcel of any organised trip to the game reserve. But it is also favoured for the access it provides to one of the province’s major scenic draw cards, the Blyde River Canyon. The third largest canyon on earth.
There are a number of nature reserves and game parks along and close to the route. These include the Kruger National Park as well as the Ohrigstad Dam Nature Reserve and Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Mount Sheba Nature Reserve and Gustav Klingbiel Nature Reserve are also close by.
The most popular stretch of the Panorama route in Mpumalanga is the R532 from Sabie. So, via a group of spectacular waterfalls: the Sabie, Bridal Veil, and Mac Mac falls to God’s Window. From there, the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondawels. The iconic view over the canyon with the Blyde River cutting through the valley is less than 5 km north of the potholes.
If time is not an issue, the Panorama Route offers many other highlights:
Hazyview makes a good stop for lunch, or as a launch pad into the Kruger National Park. And, Graskop makes a good base if you plan to drive the Panorama Route over a couple of days.
There is also a long list of attractions in among the natural highlights. For example, the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Center, Tsakani Silk Farm. Activities such as interaction with elephants, farm stalls, eateries, hiking and MTB trails. A coffee farm and roastery, art galleries and cultural village experiences.
Pay close attention to the road. Above all, stick well below the speed limit in heavily potholed areas, especially at night and after heavy rains. Switch on the vehicle’s hazard lights in thick mist.
Although there are many restaurants in the bigger towns, once you hit the road it can be hard to find things to snack on. Pack a picnic lunch with plenty of water and cool drinks, especially in summer.
Every attraction comes with a small entrance fee, so keep an amount of money ready.
During the summer season, mist and rainy weather will hamper your sightseeing, especially at God’s Window . So, keep this in mind when planning your trip. Keep a weatherproof jacket in the car and anticipate sudden changes in temperature.
Remember to take plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen, and stick to the demarcated paths on all the paths.