Discover the Blyde River Canyon: Nature's Majestic Masterpiece
Explore the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon, a natural wonder brimming with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world, offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and exhilarating outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Blyde River Canyon
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds at popular viewpoints.
- Bring water and snacks, as some trails are long and may take several hours to complete.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary greatly from morning to afternoon.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the canyon's history.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are incredibly photogenic!
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, you can enter the reserve through the main entrance located off the R532 road. From the town of Hoedspruit, head north on the R40, then turn right onto the R532. Follow the road for approximately 30 km, and you will find the entrance to the reserve on your left. There is an entrance fee of around R60 for adults and R30 for children, so be prepared to pay upon arrival.
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Public Transportation
To reach Blyde River Canyon by public transport, you can take a bus from nearby cities such as Hoedspruit or Nelspruit. Look for buses heading to the Blyde River Canyon area. However, keep in mind that public transport may not take you directly to the entrance of the nature reserve. Once you arrive in Hoedspruit, you may need to hire a taxi or use a rideshare app to get to the canyon entrance. The taxi fare from Hoedspruit to the reserve is approximately R200-R300.
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Taxi/Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct option, you can use a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber) from Hoedspruit to Blyde River Canyon. Just enter 'Blyde River Canyon' as your destination in the app. The drive typically takes around 40 minutes, and the fare can vary from R200 to R300 depending on the time of day and demand.
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Guided Tours
For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour from nearby towns. Many tour operators offer full-day trips to Blyde River Canyon, which includes transportation from your hotel, entrance fees, and guided tours of various viewpoints. Prices for these tours typically range from R800 to R1500 per person, depending on the inclusions and duration of the tour.
Discover more about Blyde River Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kadishi Tufa Waterfall
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting Kadishi Tufa Waterfall, a serene oasis in Blyderivierspoortdam, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Blyde Dam Boat Trips
6.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Blyde River Canyon with unforgettable boat trips on Blyde Dam, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Treurrivier
16.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Treurrivier, a picturesque river in South Africa perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes into nature.
Blyde River Canyon Wilderness Lodge
21.0 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Blyde River Canyon Wilderness Lodge amidst the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve.
Blyde Wildlife Estate
21.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Blyde Wildlife Estate, a self-catering accommodation nestled in the heart of nature near the Blyde River Canyon.
Abel Erasmus Pass
26.0 km
Discover the awe-inspiring landscapes of Abel Erasmus Pass, a stunning mountain pass in South Africa that promises unforgettable views and adventure.
Khalanga Safaris (Pty) Ltd.
29.6 km
Explore the majestic wildlife of South Africa with Khalanga Safaris, offering unforgettable safari experiences near Kruger National Park.
Jock of the Bushvelt - Memorial Statue
34.9 km
Explore the Jock of the Bushvelt Statue, a historical landmark in Pilgrim's Rest that celebrates adventure and loyalty in South African heritage.
The River Lodge
35.3 km
Discover luxury and wildlife at The River Lodge in Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, an unforgettable African safari experience awaits.
Blyde Lodge
37.9 km
Experience the beauty of South Africa at Blyde Lodge, your gateway to outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes in Graskop.
Shumbalala Game Lodge
39.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Shumbalala Game Lodge in Thornybush Nature Reserve, where wildlife adventures await.
Big Swing @ Graskop Gorge Lift Co
39.4 km
Discover the adrenaline rush of the Big Swing at Graskop Gorge Lift Co, the world's highest swing, surrounded by breathtaking South African landscapes.
Historic View Point Graskop
41.6 km
Discover breathtaking views at Historic View Point Graskop, a scenic gem in Sabie, Mpumalanga, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Mac Mac Pools
47.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Mac Mac Pools, a must-visit natural attraction in South Africa with stunning pools and lush surroundings.
Bushveld Bivouac
51.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of nature and comfort at Bushveld Bivouac, a self-catering haven in South Africa's breathtaking bushveld.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lowveld View
1.5 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Lowveld View, a serene tourist attraction in South Africa, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Three Rondavels View Point
2.5 km
Experience the stunning vistas of the Three Rondavels View Point, a must-see scenic spot in South Africa's breathtaking Blyde River Canyon.
Skull Mountain - Blyde River Canyon
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skull Mountain in Blyde River Canyon, a natural wonder that captivates with stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures.
Lower Viewpoint (Blyde Canyon A Forever Resort)
3.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Lower Viewpoint at Blyde Canyon, South Africa's stunning natural wonder and a paradise for nature lovers.
Three Rondawels, Blyde River Canyon
3.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Three Rondawels in Blyde River Canyon, a natural wonder that captivates with stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Three Rondavels
3.6 km
Explore the stunning Three Rondavels, a natural masterpiece in South Africa's Blyde River Canyon, offering breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Tufa Waterfall
3.6 km
Tufa Waterfall in Sabie offers stunning hiking trails and breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers seeking a tranquil escape.
Matlatse Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve
3.8 km
Explore the unparalleled beauty of Matlatse Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Mpumalanga, South Africa.
Upper Lookout (Blyde Canyon A Forever Resort)
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Blyde Canyon from the Upper Lookout, an unforgettable observation deck experience for nature lovers and adventurers.
Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort
4.3 km
Experience breathtaking landscapes and luxury accommodations at Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort, South Africa's hidden gem for nature lovers.
LEBOKISI CURVE
5.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of Lebokisi Curve, a stunning scenic attraction in South Africa perfect for photography and peaceful retreats.
Blyderivierpoort Dam
6.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and recreational activities at Blyderivierpoort Dam in Mpumalanga, South Africa.
Mariepskop Motlatse River Canyon View
7.3 km
Explore the stunning Mariepskop Motlatse River Canyon View, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers seeking breathtaking scenery in South Africa.
Hippo Trail Starting Point
7.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at the Hippo Trail Starting Point in Blyde Canyon Nature Reserve, a hiker's paradise in South Africa.
Mariepskop
8.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Mariepskop, a nature preserve near Hoedspruit, South Africa, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Kadisi Restaurant at Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort
3.8 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Kadisi Restaurant in Blyde Canyon – where nature meets culinary delight.
Moholoholo Ya Mati
10.1 km
Experience authentic South African flavors at Moholoholo Ya Mati while enjoying breathtaking riverside views in Kampersrus AH.
The Black Chilli Eatery
15.9 km
Experience culinary creativity at The Black Chilli Eatery in Kampersrus - where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Blue Mountain Restaurant
21.2 km
Discover exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Blue Mountain Restaurant in Blyde Wildlife Estate.
The Baobab Restaurant
24.6 km
Experience authentic South African cuisine with stunning views at The Baobab Restaurant in Hoedspruit.
Hoedspruit Brewing Co
29.4 km
Discover craft beers and delightful dishes at Hoedspruit Brewing Co – your gateway to local flavors in South Africa.
The Hat & Creek
29.4 km
Discover exquisite dining at The Hat & Creek in Hoedspruit - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Drakensig Golf Club Restaurant
29.8 km
Experience delightful dining amidst stunning landscapes at Drakensig Golf Club Restaurant in Hoedspruit.
Sleepers Railway Station Restaurant.
30.3 km
Experience South African flavors at Sleepers Railway Station Restaurant in Hoedspruit - where history meets delicious cuisine.
yum!Factory
30.6 km
Experience fast food bliss at yum!Factory in Hoedspruit - where delicious flavors meet convenience.
The Thirsty Giraffe Grillhouse and Winebar
32.8 km
Experience exquisite steaks and fine wines at The Thirsty Giraffe Grillhouse and Winebar in Hoedspruit—where flavor meets relaxation.
Garden Shed Restaurant
37.9 km
Discover culinary delights at Garden Shed Restaurant in Graskop, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a beautiful garden setting.
Canimambo Restaurant Graskop
37.9 km
Experience the fusion of Portuguese and African flavors at Canimambo Restaurant in Graskop, where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Graskop Waffle Hut
38.0 km
Experience South Africa's finest waffles at Graskop Waffle Hut—where taste meets breathtaking views in Graskop.
The Glass House Restaurant
38.0 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine with breathtaking views at The Glass House Restaurant in Graskop.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blyderivier
1.4 km
Explore the enchanting Blyde River, a captivating natural wonder in South Africa's stunning Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve.
Blyde Canyon Boat Cruise
6.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich wildlife aboard the Blyde Canyon Boat Cruise, a must-visit experience in South Africa's stunning landscapes.
Blyde Canyon Boat cruise & Trips
6.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Blyde Canyon with unforgettable boat cruises through its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife.
Blyde Adventure Centre
8.2 km
Experience the thrill of adventure sports at Blyde Adventure Centre, amidst the breathtaking beauty of South Africa's Sabie region.
Swadini, A Forever Resort
8.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure at Swadini, A Forever Resort, your perfect retreat in Blyderivierspoort Nature Reserve.
Umvangati House
9.2 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and natural beauty at Umvangati House, your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon.
Blyde River Canyon Lodge
9.2 km
Experience unparalleled natural beauty and comfort at Blyde River Canyon Lodge, your gateway to adventure in South Africa's stunning landscapes.
The Chubby Pig (Eatery, Gift Shop & Accommodation)
12.3 km
Experience the best of South African cuisine and culture at The Chubby Pig, your gateway to adventure in Moramelo.
Blyde Mountain Country House
21.1 km
Experience tranquility and stunning views at Blyde Mountain Country House, your perfect getaway in Hoedspruit, South Africa.
Century 21 Wildlife Properties
29.5 km
Discover unparalleled real estate opportunities in Hoedspruit with Century 21 Wildlife Properties, where property meets adventure in South Africa's wildlife paradise.
High Tea With Elephants
29.5 km
Discover authentic African treasures and unique decor at High Tea With Elephants in Hoedspruit, a boutique gift shop that captures local culture.
African Meraki, Gifts Curios Clothing
29.5 km
Explore African Meraki in Hoedspruit for unique gifts and authentic South African treasures that celebrate local craftsmanship.
The Crazy Store Hoedspruit
30.4 km
Shop at The Crazy Store Hoedspruit for unique gifts, local crafts, toys, and home goods in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Lowveld Clothing
30.5 km
Explore the essence of the Lowveld through unique fashion at Lowveld Clothing, where style meets local culture.
Mutapa arts
30.5 km
Explore Mutapa Arts, a gem of Hoedspruit, where local creativity meets unforgettable souvenirs in a vibrant gift shop and art gallery.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Blyde Canyon House
13.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Blyde Canyon House, a perfect getaway nestled at the base of Blyde River Canyon, offering luxurious comfort and adventure.
Rendezvous Bush Bar
28.0 km
Discover Rendezvous Bush Bar: A lively grill destination in Hoedspruit, where flavorful dishes meet the beauty of the bushveld.
Bruno's Pub and Beer Garden
37.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bruno's Pub and Beer Garden, a perfect retreat in the heart of Graskop.
Bush Pub & Inn.
43.6 km
Discover the enchanting Bush Pub & Inn in Thornybush Game Reserve, where comfort meets adventure in a breathtaking natural setting.
Rio Dos Elefantes River Camp
50.0 km
Discover the beauty of nature and experience authentic South African cuisine at Rio Dos Elefantes River Camp in Balule Nature Reserve.
Tanks Bush Pub
55.9 km
Discover Tanks Bush Pub in Hazyview: a delightful family-friendly restaurant and bar & grill offering a taste of South African cuisine in a stunning natural setting.
Chillas Club Lodge
64.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chillas Club Lodge, Nkambeni's ultimate bar destination for relaxation and social gatherings.
Shabene
72.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Shabene, the premier bar in Phalaborwa known for its friendly vibe and refreshing drinks.
Malunga's Tavern
73.7 km
Discover the lively spirit of Malunga's Tavern in Ga-Makhushane, where local culture meets refreshing brews in a vibrant beer hall.
Thobaseboke Tavern
74.3 km
Dive into the lively atmosphere of Thobaseboke Tavern, a local gem in Ga-Mashishimale, Phalaborwa, offering drinks, entertainment, and vibrant social experiences.
Jam Alley
74.7 km
Discover the lively ambiance and authentic flavors at Jam Alley, Phalaborwa's premier beer hall, where culture and community come together.
Mafahla Tavern
75.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Mafahla Tavern in Phalaborwa, where great drinks meet warm hospitality.
S Lounge
75.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at S Lounge, a local bar in Phalaborwa offering a unique blend of drinks and culture.
Eddies Tarven
75.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Eddie's Tavern in Phalaborwa, where drinks and camaraderie come together in a lively atmosphere.
Londolozi Private Game Reserve
76.0 km
Discover the breathtaking wildlife and luxurious accommodations at Londolozi Private Game Reserve, where nature and luxury unite in South Africa.
