Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Canyons & Gorges

Blyde River Canyon

Mpumalanga, South Africa

  1. WORLD’S BEST CANYONS & GORGES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 11 2026

No. 1 in Africa

Blyde River Canyon

A green gorge cut into red sandstone, roughly 800 m deep, with the Blyde River running below. Visitors look down from rim viewpoints such as the Three Rondavels, walk short trails to waterfalls and pools, or take a boat on the reservoir.

Highlights

  • Three Rondavels viewpoint
  • Bourke's Luck Potholes
  • Leopard Trail views

Good to know

  • Fees charged per viewpoint, varying widely
  • Viewpoints close at 5 PM
  • Mist can hide views, check weather

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