Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

The Basics

One of the top attractions in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province, the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve offers stunning views and lots of outdoor activities. To see the park’s most popular vistas, take a tour of the Panorama Route, which offers views of the Three Rondavels, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and other scenic vistas.

Alternatively, you can see the canyon from the water on a boat tour along the Blyde River. Traveling by water offers different views of the park’s landmarks and gives you a chance to spot hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds. You can also visit the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve on multi-day tours that include other classic South Africa experiences, such as a safari in the nearby Kruger National Park.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There are lodges located near the park for guests who want to spend some time in the region. Most offer a variety of tours.

• Some trails and overlooks are wheelchair accessible, but much of the reserve is not.

• Bring sturdy shoes and a camera—hiking and photography opportunities abound.

How to Get There

The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is located near Kruger National Park and is a 6-hour drive from Johannesburg. The closest city to the reserve is Nelspruit, which is only a 50-minute flight from Johannesburg and about a 1.5-hour drive from the reserve.

When to Get There

For the best views, visit during South Africa’s dry winter months (May–August), when vegetation is not as thick as it is in summer. The dry season increases your chances of spotting wildlife when they gather at water holes.

Top Hiking Trails in Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is laced with trails, which range in length and can accommodate everything from short strolls to multi-day treks. For one of the best views in the park, take the Leopard Trail (which starts at the Blyde Canyon Forever Resort) to the viewpoint that overlooks the canyon and the Three Rondavels formations. Serious hikers can traverse the reserve on a three- to five-day trek along the Blyde River Canyon Hiking Trail.

What is Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve famous for?

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is famous for being home to the third-biggest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in the United States and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia. Thanks to its lush subtropical foliage, the Blyde River Canyon is considered the largest ‘green canyon.’

How do I get to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve?

You can reach Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve by flying to Johannesburg and then driving about five hours northeast. You can also join a guided tour from Johannesburg, which travels to the reserve via the Panorama Route, a scenic route through the Mpumalanga highlands.

What are the top activities to do at Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve?

Some of the top activities to do at Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve include taking in the views from lookouts God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels; taking a scenic boat tour along the Blyde River; hiking the trails; and spotting wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and antelope.

What is the best time to visit Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve?

The best time to visit Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is generally comfortable, with mild daytime temperatures and cool nights during this period. It’s also the best time to spot wildlife gathered around water holes.

Are there any entrance fees required for Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve?

Yes, entrance fees are required to access Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. Each attraction within the reserve has a separate entrance fee, but the fees are typically minimal and are reduced for seniors and children. Credit cards are usually accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry cash just in case.

What should I bring to visit Blyde Canyon Nature Reserve?

A list of items to bring to visit Blyde Canyon Nature Reserve should include sturdy footwear (ideally hiking boots if you plan to hit the trails), breathable layers, a waterproof jacket, sun protection (including sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses), water, and snacks. And don’t forget to bring a camera.