The Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga, South Africa. Blyde means happy in Dutch for a good reason: the canyon is one of the most beautiful in the world. It stretches for 25 km (16 mi) to the north of the Drakensberg. It certainly is the biggest green canyon on Earth: lush foliage covers the precipitous red sandstone cliffs.
Besides the thick forests, the canyon is also home for various species: hippos, antelopes and numerous primates. It also features several waterfalls and viewpoints. Tourists explore the site by hiking trails or even horse riding. There also are various other activities: rafting, hot-air ballooning, fly-fishing, biking, tours and boat trips on the Blyde Dam.
Why to go there?
The third largest canyon in the world; one of the most beautiful natural wonders in South Africa.
When to go there?
All year round, but summers are the wettest.
How to get there?
By car drive from Kruger National Park, towns of Sabie or Nelspruit. The Panorama Route features some great views of the canyon.
Read more or book: Blyde River Canyon Hotels
Lead photo by Pete R.
Photo by Oleh Matsevych
Photo by Marc Billon
Photo by Christian Alpert
Photo by Christian Alpert
Photo by Cal Redback
Photo by Lee Bothma
Photo by Kirsten Karius
Photo by Hougaard Malan
Photo by Hougaard Malan
[symple_googlemap title=”Blyde River Canyon” location=”Blyde River Canyon” zoom=”10″ height=250]