Blyde River Canyon, Pilgrims Rest & the Sabie waterfalls lie in the Drakensberg escarpment close to the Kruger and offers welcome relaxation after the excitement of your safari.
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The Blyde River Canyon region is our name for the beautiful mountainous escarpment close to the Kruger National Park. It encompasses the Blyde River Canyon, waterfalls and walking trails of Sabie and Graskop. Plus the various excursions and adventure activities around Hazyview.
So this beautiful area is ideal for a couple of days of relaxation after the excitement of your Kruger safari. Alternatively it acts as a relaxing break between two safari regions, as it is only 1-2 hours drive from the Kruger National Park. Plus only 3-4 hours from Johannesburg. Several convivial country lodges offer excellent cuisine and stunning settings.
The Blyde River Canyon itself is a majestic red sandstone gorge with sheer cliffs. Plunging 1000 metres into the river below; it is nothing less than magnificent. And the well-known ‘panorama route’ is the scenic drive alongside the canyon. The route visits various viewpoints such as God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, Lisbon and Berlin waterfalls. Plus the interesting Bourne Luck potholes. In fact the canyon is the third largest river-formed canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia.
Here you'll find a host of walking trails, connecting the many waterfalls. Whilst between Hazyview & Sabie, there are a host of soft adventure activities on offer. These include the Lift gorge experience, treetop or gorge ziplining, quad biking, abseiling and some canyoning experiences. (Note that the canyoning is only in in late summer season, due to water levels.)
Dawsons's County Lodge is a hidden gem with a very peaceful setting. Sitting on the porch with a pot of tea and some superb home made biscuits is highly recommended after a long day on the road. We were extremely well looked after and thought the food was great. Highly recommended.
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