Epic Panorama Route

The Epic Panorama Route is an amazing road trip that starts and ends in the city of Hoedspruit in the Republic of South Africa. The route covers a distance of ca. 282km and is best completed in 3 days. The best time of year to drive the route is during the dry season when the landscapes and nature are at their most spectacular. The route takes in the towns of Graskop and Matibidi, and the overall road conditions are good. The Epic Panorama Route provides an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views and lots of opportunities for sightseeing and exploring. It is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed on a moderate budget. Whether you are looking for a relaxing drive or an adventure, the Epic Panorama Route is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Hoedspruit, located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, is the starting point of the Epic Panorama Route. It is a pleasant town surrounded by mountains, rivers and bushveld, making it the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The picturesque town is home to some of the best attractions in the region. The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a must-visit for animal lovers, where visitors can see the rehabilitation and rescue of wild animals. The nearby Kapama Game Reserve offers the chance to view the Big Five in their natural habitat. The J.G. Strijdom Tunnel and the Blyde River Canyon are also worth a visit. The closest international airport to Hoedspruit is the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (IATA: MPM). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the Epic Panorama Route. Hoedspruit is the ideal starting point for the Epic Panorama Route. With its stunning natural beauty, wildlife attractions, and car rental services at the airport, it has something for everyone.

Embark on a road trip from Hoedspruit to Graskop and explore the best of the South African bushveld. This 114 km journey will take you fewer than 3 hours and will give you a chance to admire the scenic beauty of the area. A 4WD car is advisable for this section of the journey as there may be lack of gas stations. Along the way, make sure to visit the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and the nearby Kruger National Park. The centre is home to a variety of animals, including lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs, while the park is home to some of the most amazing wildlife in the world. At the end of your journey, make sure to stop in Graskop and visit the Big Swing, where you can take a thrilling ride over the scenic Blyde River Canyon. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Graskop to Matibidi! This 65 km drive will take you less than an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the spectacular views that the route has to offer. Make sure to have a 4WD car for this stretch, as the roads can be a bit rough. There are also few gas stations along the way, so make sure to fill up before you start your journey. The first stop is the Graskop Gorge Lift Company, where you can experience the breathtaking views of the Lowveld from the top of the gorge. You can then continue your journey to God's Window, a natural viewpoint with incredible panoramic views of the Lowveld. After that, you can visit Mac Mac Falls, a beautiful waterfall located in the Mac Mac forest. Your final destination is Matibidi, a small village located in the heart of the Lowveld. Here you can visit the nearby Matibidi Nature Reserve, a great place to spot a variety of wildlife. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Kick off your road trip from Matibidi, Republic of South Africa, and take the scenic route to Hoedspruit, just 102km away. This drive should take you less than two hours, and you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the African landscape as you go. Keep an eye out for the occasional gas station, as they may be few and far between. As you drive, you’ll come across some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the area, from the rolling hills of the Matibidi Game Reserve to the lush vegetation of the Hoedspruit Nature Reserve. Make sure to take some time to explore and experience these magnificent places. Once you arrive in Hoedspruit, you’ll be able to find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

The Epic Panorama Route culminates in Hoedspruit, Republic of South Africa. Situated in the Limpopo Province, this town lies in the heart of the Lowveld and is the gateway to the Greater Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon. Hoedspruit is a great destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Tourists can go on game drives in the nearby game reserves and experience the thrill of seeing wild animals in their natural habitat. The town also has many hiking and biking trails, as well as hot air ballooning, horseback riding and quad biking. Visitors can also explore the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, home to many endangered animals such as cheetahs, wild dogs, and rhinos. The African Ivory Route, a museum dedicated to the history of the ivory trade, is also worth a visit. For those interested in bird watching, the area around Hoedspruit is renowned for its rich bird life and the nearby Kruger National Park is a great place to see some of the more than 500 species of birds that inhabit the region. Hoedspruit is easily accessible by car, with the closest international airport being the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (IATA: MQP). With its abundance of wildlife and outdoor activities, Hoedspruit makes for a great end to the Epic Panorama Route.

Before you set off

The Epic Panorama Route, extending for about 282 kilometers (175 miles), is a spectacular journey through the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, with its starting point near the wildlife haven of Hoedspruit. This route provides unparalleled views of the Drakensberg escarpment and is perfect for anyone interested in photography, nature, and culture. Drivers of all levels can enjoy the well-maintained Roads, which meander through some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Travelers will pass through charming towns like Graskop, and Sabie, and approach the historic gold-mining town of Pilgrim's Rest. Notable highlights include the Blyde River Canyon, the world's third-largest canyon, offering dramatic vistas. God's Window provides a sweeping view of the Lowveld over 900 meters below. The Pinnacle Rock, an impressive quartzite buttress, rises dramatically from the forest. Bourke's Luck Potholes are a series of natural water features that have been carved out by centuries of swirling water. Lastly, the Three Rondavels are strikingly shaped hills resembling traditional African homesteads.

Best Time to Go:

The prime time to embark on the Epic Panorama Route is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is milder and the skies clearer, providing the best conditions for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

Potential Risks:

Though the Roads are generally well-maintained, travelers should be mindful of the possibility of encountering wildlife on the Road, particularly at dawn and dusk. Additionally, unexpected weather changes can quickly lead to reduced visibility and should be considered when planning daily travel.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Completing the route comfortably over 3 days allows for ample time to explore each site without rush.
• The journey is accessible for a moderate budget and offers a diversity of experiences, from serene nature encounters to adrenaline-pumping activities like hiking and zip-lining.
• Accommodation options range from camping sites to luxury lodges.
• It's wise to book in advance, especially if you plan to travel during South African school holidays or public holidays when the route is most popular.

A good choice for:

The Epic Panorama Route is an iconic South African adventure that combines natural grandeur with rich cultural history. It's a journey that not only showcases some of the most impressive landscapes but also provides a window into the heart of South Africa’s scenic wonders. Every turn promises new delights, making it an essential experience for both locals and international visitors alike.