The Panorama Route is a breathtaking journey through Mpumalanga's highlands, where dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and natural wonders converge. Stretching along the Great Escarpment of the Drakensberg, this iconic drive offers awe-inspiring vistas and stops at some of South Africa's most remarkable landmarks. Popular highlights on the route includes:
Towering quartzite formations resembling traditional African huts, the Three Rondavels offer spectacular views of the Blyde River Canyon, one of South Africa’s natural treasures.
A 133-meter passage along the R36 in Limpopo’s Abel Erasmus Pass, offering stunning views of the Drakensberg mountains and surrounding valleys. Stop by roadside stalls on the north side for unique local curios before or after your journey through this scenic tunnel.
A lofty viewpoint providing sweeping views over forested ravines, rolling hills, and the vast Lowveld plains from over 900 meters above ground.
A striking 30-meter quartzite column rising dramatically above a ravine, with nearby waterfalls adding to the scenic allure.
Baobab trees, known for their distinctive appearance, are ancient giants that can grow up to 20 meters tall and live for thousands of years. These iconic trees thrive in low-lying areas across Africa and Australia and are renowned for their massive size and unique structure.
At the confluence of the Blyde River ("river of joy") and the Treur River ("river of sorrow"), nature has carved out one of the most fascinating geological features—Bourke's Luck Potholes. Over millennia, the swirling waters of these rivers, laden with sand and debris, have sculpted a collection of striking cylindrical formations. These formations, marked by deep, dark pools, stand out vividly against the white and yellow lichen-covered rocks, showcasing the power and artistry of water erosion.
Dropping 80 meters into a jade-colored basin, the Berlin Waterfall is a spectacular sight framed by red cliffs. Visitors can enjoy this dramatic cascade from a convenient observation platform above.
Located just south of the Berlin Falls, the Lisbon Waterfall is the tallest in Mpumalanga, plunging 94 meters in a double stream. A short footpath leads to a stunning vantage point at the base, with nearby picnic spots for relaxation.
The 65-meter-high Mac Mac Falls, a declared National Monument, was once a single stream but was split by gold miners using dynamite to access nearby gold deposits. While the pathway to the viewing platform may be challenging for wheelchair users, the breathtaking view is worth the effort.
Pilgrim’s Rest is a historic town and provincial heritage site in Mpumalanga. This charming location was a hub for gold prospectors in the late 19th century and remains a window into South Africa’s gold rush era.
Perched atop Long Tom Pass, this historic cannon was once used by Boer forces during the Anglo-Boer War. The impressive artillery piece adds historical significance to this scenic location.
To explore the interactive Google Map below, click any of the coloured icons or the info icon to the left on the map's menu bar:
