The majestic Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga, neighbouring the Kruger National Park, is celebrated for its breathtaking views; one will experience some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Africa.
World's Third Largest Gorge
From many well-positioned vantage points one has a view of the 26 km long gorge, which starts at 'Bourke's Luck Potholes and ends at the 'Three Rondavels'. The Potholes are very extraordinary rock formations that were shaped millions of years ago by erosion. The peculiar swirl holes developed when the once rapid river carried masses of sand and debris.
This breathtaking gorge, the third largest in the world, provides unforgettable memories that become indelibly etched upon any avid adventurers soul. Its scenery is unsurpassed, its vegetation is both varied and lush and provides a home to a rich selection of bird and wildlife.
Certainly, this part of South Africa was populated long before it was descended upon by gold prospectors. Stone age tools of up to 150 000 years old have been discovered in the Blyde River Canyon, while a rock shelter near the Echo Caves was first inhabited at least 30 000 years ago.
More recent relics of human habitation include a number of stonewall settlements dating from the early Iron Age, a collection of sixth-century clay heads unearthed near Lydenburg, and now on display in that town's museum, and panels of monochromatic rock art spread throughout the area.
Blyde River Canyon Attractions
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