Panoramic Drakensberg & Blyde River Canyon Full-Day Tour from Graskop
Drive the Panorama Route from Graskop and watch the Drakensberg drop into the Blyde River Canyon—Three Rondavels, God's Window, Berlin Falls and a glass lift at Graskop make for a day of geology, waterfalls and wide-open views. This easy, full-day circuit combines short walks with extended lookout time and local insights.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for softer light
Begin at or near sunrise to avoid crowds at God's Window and capture canyon ridges in side-light for better photos.
Layer and be ready for wind
Bring a light windproof layer—weather on the escarpment can switch from cool and misty to hot and blustery within an hour.
Carry small change
Some viewpoints and craft stalls accept cash only; keep Rands for snacks, toilets, or optional adrenalin activities.
Watch your step at unrailed viewpoints
Some lookout points have no railings and uneven rock; keep children close and wear sturdy shoes for grip.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small lookout path below Bourke's Luck Potholes with fewer visitors
- •Early-morning ridge views near Wonder View for a different angle on the Three Rondavels
Wildlife
- •Vervet monkeys
- •Various bird species including the rock kestrel
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to stay on designated paths, carry out litter, and support local conservation efforts; water use is managed carefully in the Lowveld during dry seasons.
The Panorama Route sits along the Mpumalanga escarpment; Voortrekker-era place names and local Tswana history intersect with the landscape, and 'Blyde' reflects early settler naming of the river.
Photographer's Notes
- • God's Window platform
- • Three Rondavels/Blyde Canyon viewpoint
- • Graskop glass lift overlooks
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Good grip for stairs, short trails and unrailed viewpoints.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)Essential
Lowveld sun is strong once the mist burns off—protect exposed skin.
Light rain shell or windbreakerEssential
Escarpment weather changes quickly; a compact shell keeps you comfortable at high viewpoints.
Camera or phone with extra batteryEssential
Long vistas and waterfalls demand spare power and storage for photos.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7–8 hours (420–480 minutes), including multiple viewpoint stops and a coffee/snack break.
Are entrance fees included?
All main entrance fees are included except for optional adrenalin activities at Graskop (glass lift extras, bridge swing, zipline).
Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes—this is graded easy with short walks; however, some viewpoints have stairs or no railings so supervision is required.
Is pick-up available from lodges?
The listed start point is a safe parking area in Graskop; pickup/drop-off at lodges can usually be arranged for an additional fee—ask at booking.
What should I bring for the rainforest walk at God's Window?
Wear closed-toe shoes for the short rainforest boardwalk (roughly 1 km total) and bring a light rain jacket; the trail can be slippery after mist or rain.
When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Early morning weekdays are quietest; mid-morning to mid-afternoon is busiest, especially at popular viewpoints and the Glass Lift area.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–8 hours
Location
Graskop, Mpumalanga
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—long periods standing and short walks (up to ~2 km) with stairs; suitable for most travelers.
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