Blyde River Canyon Tour offers magnificent landscapes and scenic landmarks. Experience the natural wonders of one of the largest canyons in the world. Scenic drives and walks in the Blyde River Nature Reserve and the Panorama route.
The majestic Blyde River Canyon with its endless vistas is in the Kruger Lowveld, a region of superlatives. The Blyde River Canyon, within the 29 000 hectare Blyde River Nature Reserve, is one of the largest canyons in the world. Animals, fabulous photos, wild walks and bright-plumed birds. South Africa is globally renowned for its phenomenal game viewing and sound conservation ethics. The Kruger Lowveld region has some of the most diverse habitats in South Africa and boasts an impressive bird list of close to 600 species. The Kruger Lowveld is also a place of historical and cultural significance. Iron Age trade routes and African traditions reach back across many centuries.
Arrival and transfer to lodge (lunch not included), book-in time 14:00.
The Panorama Route
You will be picked up after breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive upwards through the mountains towards the escarpment from where panoramic views of the Blyde River Canyon will greet you. You will visit the Potholes, Gods Window and Berlin Falls along the way then break for lunch in the small town of Graskop before returning to the lodge. Short hikes of 1-2 km at each stop along the route.
Swadini Valley and boat trip
This trip will take us on an early 4 km walk to a waterfall in the Swadini Valley before taking a 2-hour boat trip on the dam which covers the base of the Blyde Canyon. We will discover Tufa waterfall and see some hippos and maybe a crocodile or two. Lunch will be at Moholoholo-ya-mati on the Blyde River.
Moholoholo
We will start off mid-morning to pay a visit to a special animal rehabilitation centre ( Moholoholo) where you can interact with large birds of prey, cheetahs, vultures and whichever orphaned baby animal that are in their care (hippo, rhino, giraffe or zebra). After lunch at the Baobab Restaurant we will pay a visit to the world renowned Hippo called Jessica. You can feed, touch and even give this wild Hippo a massage with your feet. Self-guided walk from your lodge.
After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport or your next destination.
Optional extra day
Transfer to Mariepskop, 2000 m above sea level for a 5 km circle route hike and panoramic Blyde Canyon views.
The rate will be confirmed on request. The following pricing factors will be considered: standard or superior accommodation, room sharing or single, group size, extra nights, transfer requirements and additional services. A minimum of 2 people per group. Twenty percent deposit and the balance 6 weeks before trip.
INCLUDED
The following items are normally included:
Accommodation in twin rooms, all meals, guide and guiding fees, all-day transfers between pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to reserves and attractions.
EXCLUDED: Items not mentioned above, eg: Transport to and from Johannesburg or Nelspruit or Hoedspruit, medical and travel insurance, drinks and alcoholic beverages.
Yes. Navigation is straightforward with the recommended mobile app which has a map, trail summary and navigation functionality. Simply follow our Wikiloc installation instructions which will be provided with your Trip Information pack. Download the country map for offline use and follow the route on your phone with the assurance that navigation will be simple, and you’ll find your way. Local towns are usually signposted. Sections of the trail can be featureless and without directions but you will have electronic support.
We recommend that you arrange appropriate holiday insurance covering you against illness, injury, and loss or damage to luggage. This insurance should also cover the possibility of you having to cancel your holiday for whatever reason.
No. It is a private tour.
You will need a good quality mountain bike and your normal mountain biking gear for a day ride with perhaps some extra warm layers if the weather is cold. Your Trip information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard cycling gear.
The itinerary is designed to be enjoyable for a regular rider. If you currently don’t enjoy that level of fitness, then regular mountain biking supplemented by cardiovascular exercise for at least six months before your trip is recommended. Keep in mind the daily distances and changes in elevation in your daily itinerary. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.
You can use local taxis to continue to your next overnight stop. Contact your Route Manager for advice and assistance.
Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your Trip Information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept dogs.
Travel insurance is compulsory. It is required to cover cancellations, personal effects, personal accidents, medical and emergency travel expenses.
Our bookings are generally private groups. You can book a guide for an exclusive trip.
What to take:
Comfortable, well ventilated clothes in keeping with the season. Wear neutral coloured clothing. Always bring a thick windbreaker/jacket, good walking boots (already worn-in), hiking sandals and several pairs of cotton or wool socks. For your daily needs, you are advised to have a day-bag, a plastic bag to waterproof your day-pack, sun-hat, sunglasses, sun block, a water bottle, personal first-aid kit, camera, binoculars. A torch and headlamp are important. Basic solar heating is provided. Cell phone charging facilities available.


