Home to gigantic rocks, deep gorges and the spectacular grass-covered mountain peaks, this natural wonder park stretches for 60km(37mi). The Blyde River Canyon itself is nearly 30km(19mi)long, and contains a vast number of unforgettable sights for all of us nature lovers.
The Pinnacle is a 33m (108ft) quartzite needle that rises proudly from a fern covered ravine. The river drops 450m (1475ft) down the slope, forming a series of amazing waterfalls.
The amazing huge rock spiral formations - the Three Rondavels, resembling a group of the typical round African huts, create a magical contrast to the blue river flowing below. They’re also known as the Chief and his three wives, with the Mapjaneng peak being the chief, and the Maseroto, Mogoladikwe and Magabolle in descent from left to right, presenting his wives.
On the spot where the Blyde river (the river of joy) and the Treur River(the river of sorrow) meet, the water erosion has made some of the most remarkable geo phenomena in the country. Known as the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, this surreal cylindrical rock sculpturescreated by whirpools of green water form a series of dark pools that make a breath taking contrast to the white and yellow rocks.
The wildlife of the canyon is as diverse as the habitats – Mountain reedbuck can be encountered on the escarpment, the crocs and hippos live in the Blyde Dam, and zebras, waterbuck and impala can be seen on the plains near the canyon’s mouth.
The descent from the nature reserve to the Abel Erasmus Pass is one of the most beautifuldrives in the country,be sure to take it.
