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GGod’s Window is a highlight along what is known as the Panorama Route in the eastern Mpumalanga province. The natural wonders on the route range from cascading waterfalls to impressive mountain gorges. Along with God’s Window, other well-known spots on the route include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, the Mac Mac Falls and the Blyde River Canyon.
God’s Window is one of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve’s most spectacular viewpoints, with astonishing views over South Africa’s Lowveld (so-named because it is much lower than the high escarpment along which the Panorama Route runs). At God’s Window, majestic cliffs plunge down 700m and, on a clear day, you'll be able to see over the famous Kruger National Park towards the Lebombo Mountains on South Africa’s border with Mozambique.
The reserve is also home to various species of antelope, and viewing sites are provided along the length of the canyon.
Known as the largest 'green canyon' in the world, the Blyde River Canyon is a 33km-long gorge that stretches from Bourke’s Luck Potholes to the Three Rondavels near Blydepoort Dam. Aside from its spectacular scenery, the canyon is one of the best birding spots in the country. It’s also a popular adventure destination.
The towns of Lydenberg and White River are gateways to the Panorama Route. Other quaint towns in the area include Sabie, Graskop, Orighstand, Hoedspruit and Hazyview.
The most famous town in the region is Pilgrims’ Rest, now something of a living museum and tribute to the gold-panning days of the late 1800s. When you visit, you'll step straight back into the pages of the past. South of Pilgrim's Rest, you can visit the Mount Sheba Nature Reserve, home to more than 100 species of indigenous trees, including yellowwood, white stinkwood, Cape chestnut and mountain cedar.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency
Tel: +27 (0)13 759 5300/1
Email: info@mtpa.co.za
How to get here
From Graskop, travel on the R532 towards the Blyde River Canyon. Turn onto the R534 and there is a sign on the right after a few kilometres to the parking lot at God’s Window. Try to avoid public and school holidays when it will be more crowded, and if your visit does coincide with these times, try to go as early as possible.
Best time to visit
God's Window is a good viewpoint on and off all year, but some days are clearer than others.
Things to do
Be sure to stop at some of the region's beautiful waterfalls, including Lone Creek Falls, Mac Mac Falls and the Berlin and Lisbon falls.
While the lower viewpoint is just a short walk from the car park and is spectacular, it's well worth taking the path up through the mist forest to the upper viewpoints. The climb will be worth it!
The Panorama Route is an adventure-seeker's paradise. There is rock climbing, abseiling, caving, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, 4x4 routes, and trails for horse-riding, mountain biking, quad-biking and hiking.
What to pack
Binoculars, camera, sunscreen and a hat.
Where to stay
There is a wide range of accommodation along the Panorama Route from luxury game lodges and bush spas to cheap and cheerful B&Bs.
What to eat
The region is famous for its pancakes, with Graskop being a particularly good pancake stop.
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