Hello from the other side (of the Blyde River Canyon)

Hey there! I wanted to share with you an incredible place called the Blyde River Canyon. It’s a breathtaking natural wonder located in South Africa. Now, let me tell you why this place is so special.

Firstly, the Blyde River Canyon is known far and wide for its jaw-dropping beauty. Imagine towering cliffs, crystal-clear water, and lush greenery as far as the eye can see. It’s like stepping into a scene from a fairy tale!

When you visit the Blyde River Canyon, you’ll be in awe of the panoramic views that stretch out before you. Every corner offers a new, breathtaking vista that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Trust me, you won’t want to put your camera down!

But the Blyde River Canyon is more than just a pretty sight. It’s also teeming with diverse wildlife. From graceful antelopes to playful monkeys, you’ll have the chance to observe a whole host of fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

The Blyde River Canyon also offers a range of activities that will make your visit even more memorable. You can take a boat tour along the river, go on a hiking adventure through the surrounding trails, or simply relax and soak in the stunning scenery.

While exploring the Blyde River Canyon, you’ll undoubtedly feel a sense of peace and tranquility. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. You might even find yourself feeling a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in South Africa, I highly recommend making your way to the Blyde River Canyon. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. This place truly is a hidden gem that will leave you speechless.

Come and see for yourself what makes the Blyde River Canyon so special. I promise you won’t regret it!

When I decided to venture up Mariepskop and experience the Blyde River Canyon from a different perspective, I had no idea what a fascinating journey awaited me. The trails were intricate, the access roads rough, and the views were simply breathtaking.

I embarked on this adventure with Thabelo Sekome as my guide. Despite my initial trepidation, he remained calm and composed. He assured me that it was normal to feel overwhelmed by the sensory overload that awaited us. Thabelo had guided countless individuals to the summit of Mariepskop, and he understood that they needed a moment to take in the beauty and let their emotions run wild.

“For me, it was the trees in the mist belt forest at the foot of the mountain that first captured my heart,” Thabelo said with a smile. “The Outeniqua yellowwoods, the Transvaal oak, and the cabbage trees create such a magical atmosphere.”

As I stood in awe of the majestic vistas, vibrant fynbos, and stunning aloes and proteas, I couldn’t help but share in Thabelo’s love for this remarkable place. Mariepskop was not just a mountain; it was a place of wonder and enchantment.

Have you ever heard of Mariepskop? It’s a remarkable peak that stands tall in the beautiful province of Mpumalanga. Millions of tourists come to admire its beauty from afar, but only a few brave souls dare to conquer its summit. Rising to an impressive height of 1,945 meters above sea level, Mariepskop is truly a sight to behold.

Wow, let me tell you about this incredible place I visited. The views from the Blyde River Canyon are absolutely stunning. They are even better than the famous God’s Window and Three Rondavels, if you ask me. It’s like seeing the heart of nature.

But the mountain is more than just a pretty sight. It’s like a miracle of nature. It plays an important role in our country’s water supply, being a national strategic water source area. It’s also home to many unique species that you won’t find anywhere else. That’s why it’s now officially part of the expanded Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve.

When I reached the summit of the mountain, I was greeted by Thabelo’s colleague, Jochen van de Perre. He had set up a lovely little breakfast spread, complete with coffee, croissants, and homemade banana bread. As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn’t help but admire the fascinating sights around me.

The branches of the wind-stunted real yellowwoods were covered in beautiful tangles of old man’s beard. The rocks were like canvases, painted with vibrant lichens in all sorts of colors. And then there were the stunning hot pink protea blooms, adding a splash of color to the landscape. Oh, and let’s not forget about the silver slivers of the endemic Helichrysum mariepscopium, a truly special plant.

‘I remember feeling the same way when I first laid eyes on the canyon from this side,’ the owner of the lodge said, chuckling at my struggle to stay seated in front of such untamed beauty. He is one of the few people in the area who organizes tours with local guides like Thabelo to explore Mariepskop. He took us on a ride from his lodge, Kruger Cliffs, up a steep 1,100-meter climb, past dusty pine plantations, through lush forests, and into this fragrant wonderland of jagged rocks and endless vistas.

Once upon a time, a long, long time ago, there was a huge volcano eruption in central Mpumalanga. This eruption created the magnificent Mpumalanga Drakensberg escarpment. This place, called Mariepskop, has had many different roles throughout history. It acted as a stronghold for the Mapulana people who bravely defended themselves against Swazi attacks during the 19th century. It also witnessed moments of strife and sorrow when communities were uprooted to make way for massive timber plantations. And, during the apartheid era, it even served as a military radar station.

As I stand here in this nature reserve, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe. The road we traveled down with Jochen was filled with abandoned buildings, strange trees, and twisted forest paths. It’s a reflection of the complex history that this place holds, and as the new caretakers, we must navigate this convoluted past with care.

I find myself perched on a rocky ledge, surrounded by alpine swifts swooping gracefully below me. The air is filled with the intoxicating blend of coffee and the sweet aroma of Synocolostemon albiflorus, a member of the mint family. It’s an immersive experience that reminds me of the deep connection people have with this mountain.

Thabelo, a local resident, shares his own personal connection to this land. He tells me that his family was the last to leave in 1978. This place, he explains, is called Mapisaneng, which means “place of chiefs.” It was once the stronghold of Chief Maripi and the Sotho-speaking people, who used it as a refuge during conflicts with the Swazi nation.

When I went up Mariepskop for the first time in the early 2000s, it felt like a unique adventure. Before that, I wasn’t able to visit because access was restricted. My great uncle, Njejane, used to tell me stories about the mountain and its wonders. He was a skilled hunter and could even track baboons along the steep cliffs and crevices.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to spend time with several experts who were fascinated by the area’s ecology, hydrology, and geomorphology. One of them was Dave Rushworth, a renowned birding guru. He shared his knowledge and insights with me, allowing me to deepen my understanding of the mountain’s diverse bird species.

I also had the chance to meet Mervyn Lötter, an authority on trees. He taught me about the different types of trees that thrive in Mariepskop and their important role in the mountain’s ecosystem.

Exploring Mariepskop and learning from these experts was a truly enriching experience. It opened my eyes to the beauty and complexity of this unique natural environment.

When you’re on this mountain, there’s so much to discover. South Africa offers a unique experience where you can transition from the enchanting mistbelt forest to the vibrant fynbos in just minutes. And the best part? You can spot incredible creatures like the Narina trogon or the Gurney’s sugar bird, all within a kilometer of each other. Whether you’re at the peak or exploring the slopes, keep a lookout for the Taita falcon or even the peregrine falcon, known as the fastest bird in the world. I’ve had the privilege of encountering caracal, porcupines, and even kudus on this remarkable summit. And as you venture into the mist belt, you might come across the playful Samango monkeys, the elusive leopards, or the curious bushpigs. It truly is a place full of wonders.

These days, you might come across some shady characters in the forest. There are the illegal loggers, cutting down pine and eucalyptus trees without permission. Then there are the hunters with their packs of dogs, on the lookout for game. And let’s not forget about the poachers who are after those rare, precious plants. It’s a sad state of affairs, really.

Speaking of rare plants, there’s one incident that still makes my blood boil. Back in 2005, the last surviving cycad of the Mariepskop variety of Encephalartos laevofolius was stolen. That cycad was special to me because it was the only one left on the mountain. I remember finding it when I first started guiding, right down there in that treacherous ravine.

I’m amazed by the Mariepskop complex. Even though the cycads are gone, there are still over 1,400 plant species living here. Can you believe that? And in the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, they’ve recorded more than 1,600 different species! It’s all because of the complex landscape that’s full of surprises. You see, there are so many diverse habitats in this reserve. There’s a plateau covered in plants that are similar to the famous Cape fynbos. You’ll also find aloes, proteas, wetlands, and sponge areas. And that’s not all—there are grassland slopes, Afromontane forests, riparian forests, moist woodlands, and dry woodlands too! It’s like a paradise for all kinds of plants.

What I love about this place is that you don’t need to be a botanist to appreciate its beauty. There are so many unique and special plants to see. Imagine spotting the endemic clivias, wild agapanthus, rare ferns, lichens, and the vibrant fire lily. It’s like stumbling upon hidden treasures, especially in the mist belt forest and the unexplored kloofs on the slopes. Trees, shrubs, lianas, and epiphytes—the variety is astounding. I bet there are even more species waiting to be discovered if someone takes the time to explore properly.

But there’s something special about certain places, you know? The ones that are hard to find or not widely known. They have a sort of magic to them. And that’s what makes this mountain so enchanting to the locals in Hoedspruit and Kampersrus. It’s not easy to get information about it unless you happen to know someone who knows someone. But maybe that’s part of the charm.

Some people actually climb the mountain, but others just defy the rough roads and make their way to the summit. They do it to nourish their souls. The interesting thing is, no one I spoke to could really say who takes care of the telecommunication towers at the top. Or why the old military buildings are there. And let’s not forget about the hiking trails! They’re so overgrown that even Thabelo once got lost and had to spend the night up there. But you know what? That somehow adds to the mountain’s appeal.

Photograph: Emma Gatland

In the past year, something worrying has been happening. It seems that more and more people are engaging in illegal activities like logging trees and hunting animals in the Mariepskop area. As the guardians of this beautiful place, we are concerned about this escalating problem.

We recently achieved a significant milestone by gaining legal recognition for Mariepskop as part of the larger Blyde reserve. This is a big step forward and something we are incredibly proud of. However, our joy is dampened by the current situation.

Right now, we find ourselves facing numerous challenges. We lack the necessary funds, resources, and manpower to ensure the security and maintenance of the newly included area. It desperately requires attention, both in terms of infrastructure and ecological restoration.

This predicament has put us in a difficult position. On one hand, we are thrilled that Mariepskop is finally recognized as part of the reserve. On the other hand, we are deeply concerned about the illegal activities taking place and our inability to address them effectively.

We realize that we need help. Our hope is that by raising awareness and generating support, we can tackle these issues head-on. Together, we can protect Mariepskop and preserve its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

I’m here to tell you about a really interesting place called Mariepskop and the challenges it’s facing. You see, Mariepskop is a nature reserve with a beautiful mountain, but there are problems happening there. A group of people called syndicates have been causing trouble. They’ve been causing damage to property and even threatening the forestry officials who work in the reserve. It’s become even worse because during the Covid-19 lockdowns, many of the officials were not able to be there, so there was nobody to stop the troublemakers.

There are some plans to improve the tourism infrastructure in Mariepskop, but right now, there are some major issues. The two chalets on the mountain need to be fixed up, and getting access to the mountain is a problem. The road leading up to the mountain is really bad in some places, but they are trying to make repairs. Brian, one of the people involved in managing Mariepskop, says that the municipality had some help from Public Works to fix the road. Even so, it’s not easy for the average tourist to visit the mountain in a rental car.

When I think about exploring, I sometimes forget that the protection and access we have as visitors is built on a complex system of rules and arrangements. These arrangements have deep roots in past conflicts, apartheid military goals, forced removals, and the hopeful story of tourism, jobs, and development that came with recent land claims. Unfortunately, this story hasn’t really come true.

Thabelo, a member of the Sehlare CPA, has been involved in the land claims process since the early days. He remembers when it seemed like money was going to pour in because of this mountain. But now, he’s not so optimistic. He grows tomatoes because tourism doesn’t give him enough money to pay his bills.

I can’t believe it’s already been 20 years, and we still haven’t settled all the land claims. And on top of that, we haven’t seen many new jobs in tourism or replacement jobs for the ones lost when the sawmills shut down. It’s a bit discouraging, but Brian remains hopeful.

Brian knows that funding the necessary work won’t be easy, but he strongly believes that Mariepskop has tremendous potential to generate jobs through restoration projects, tourism, and other business ventures.

Wow, have you heard about this mountain called “Utterly Spectacular”? It’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. People from all over the world come here to explore its breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventurer, or someone who just wants to appreciate the wonders of the wilderness, this place has something for everyone.

But you know what’s really fascinating? It’s not just the tourism that’s keeping this mountain alive. It’s something even more vital – water. Yes, you heard that right. Water is the unsung hero that ensures the survival of this majestic mountain.

Hey there! Can you believe that this place gets between 1,000mm and 2,000mm of rainfall every year? That’s a whole lot of water! And guess what, all this water goes into the Blyderivierspoort Dam, which is a big deal because it supports a multi-million rand agricultural sector in Hoedspruit. Not only that, but the famous Kruger National Park and the private game reserves in the area also rely on this water to keep their rivers flowing and supply water to households in Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa, and Bushbuckridge.

Now, let me tell you about something really cool. This water doesn’t just disappear – it actually seeps into the ground and makes its way through what we call peatlands. These peatlands are like water towers, absorbing the rain and slowly releasing it into the mist belt forest below. It’s like nature’s very own water filtration system!

“Can you believe it? The whole Lowveld relies on this mountain for water,” exclaimed Nick Theron, representing the Kruger to Canyon Biosphere Region (K2C). As part of the team working closely with MTPA and the four CPAs, K2C plays a vital role in preserving, restoring, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the reserve. We’re even working on establishing a water fund, urging downstream users to contribute toward conserving the mountain by recognizing the value of the ecosystem services it provides. Another big task we’ve taken on is coordinating efforts to clear out the extensive pine and eucalyptus plantations that have spread across the wider escarpment area since the 1930s.”

Did you know that each alien tree drinks up to 25 liters of water every day? It’s crazy! But don’t worry, there’s a group called the Blyde Restoration Group that’s been working hard to clear out these invasive trees. They’ve already cleared thousands of hectares, and they still have another 6,000 hectares to go. That’s a lot of work!

Now, I have to admit, the security at the mountain hasn’t been the best. Visitors like you and me have pretty much been on our own. But you know what? That just means there are huge areas of the mountain that are still waiting to be discovered. It’s like a hidden treasure! And the best part is, there are all these rare species that live there, like the Mariepskop dwarf chameleon and the Three Rondavels flat gecko. These little guys are so special because they can only be found in this one place. It’s like they have their own secret club!

As I made my way down the mountain, I couldn’t help but stop and take a short stroll along the Bush Pig Trail. This path is one of the best maintained routes for hiking, leading into a mysterious and tangled forest. Here, Thabelo truly comes alive, as he engages in conversation with the towering trees. Together, we witnessed an enchanting spectacle—a swarm of butterflies in various hues, including swallowtails, emperors, and smaller blues and yellows. They were fluttering around, indulging in a behavior called “mud-puddling”, where they suck in fluids and nutrients. Thabelo mentioned that there are more than 285 different species of butterflies documented in this area.

However, it was a bit frustrating that we didn’t have enough time to fully explore this captivating forest. As we descended the mountain, my mind was bustling with all the things I hadn’t seen. Yet, my heart still felt fulfilled by what I had witnessed, as well as the anticipation of discovering even more.

So, when I told Thabelo that I wanted to come back and explore more, he gave me a heads up. He said that some trails loop back on themselves, some just end abruptly, and others don’t have any signs at all. It’s a bit of a maze out there. The paths cross each other, split apart, and wind around in all sorts of crazy ways. There’s no straight shot to the top, but it all starts with that first step you take.

Here’s how you can have an amazing adventure on Mariepskop

1. Let’s go for a hike

Mariepskop offers numerous trails to explore, including the exciting Bush Pig Trail. However, since the signage isn’t the greatest, it’s advisable to have a knowledgeable guide accompanying you on your hike. If you’re looking for a different experience, there are also captivating hikes available in the stunning foothills of Mariepskop at privately owned Franklyn Park, although these don’t lead to the summit. Alternatively, you can find some breathtaking options within the Blyde River Canyon itself.

If you’re up for a challenge, you can even attempt to climb Mariepskop. Just keep in mind that you’ll need permission to cross private land in order to do so. There’s only one route up the mountain, and it’s the same route that the local children from the base camp take to get to school in Kampersrus. For more information, you can reach out to Thabelo Sekome at [email protected], or you can visit mariepskophikes.co.za. Additionally, you can also get in touch with the Hoedspruit Hiking Club at [email protected]

Only the best riders usually succeed in conquering the mountain without any assistance, but don’t worry – if you’re not quite an expert, you can still enjoy the experience with the help of an e-bike. You can rent one from Blyde Bikes in Hoedspruit, which will make the ride a little easier. But don’t be fooled, there are still some really steep uphills along the way. The path from the forestry gate to the summit climbs 560m over a distance of 5.4km. Just be careful on the way back down and make sure to keep a close eye on your brakes. If you have any questions, feel free to send an email to [email protected]

Hey there! I’ve got an exciting adventure to tell you about – the annual Kruger to Canyon Trail Run. It’s one of those epic routes that start out behind the Mariepskop school. To make things even more interesting, we had to rediscover old trails using ancient maps and getting help from the oldest forestry guards.

Let me tell you, the views you’ll get during this run are absolutely explosive! You’ll catch glimpses of the breathtaking Lowveld and stunning waterfalls that will leave you in awe. But make no mistake, this run is not for the faint of heart. It’s a real challenge that will push your limits.

First, we’ll brave the climb up and over into the canyon. Trust me, it’s no walk in the park. The trail is filled with tricky obstacles like roots and rocks that can make things quite slippery. But that’s all part of the adventure!

The best part is that you’ll get to experience the true essence of this mesmerizing mountain. Whether you choose the 25km or 42km route, you’ll be immersed in its beauty and grandeur. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature like never before.

Can’t wait to see you there! If you want more information or to register, just give us a call at 082 791 7069 or visit kruger2canyonchallenge.co.za. Trust me, this is an experience you don’t want to miss!

If you’re looking for a different way to experience nature, I highly recommend taking a 90-minute boat trip along the breathtaking shoreline of Blyderivierspoort Dam. The dam was built in 1972 where the Ohrigstad and Blyde rivers meet, creating a beautiful landscape that stretches along the base of the canyon.

As you sail along the dam, you’ll be surrounded by a variety of fascinating vegetation, including wild figs, rubber euphorbia, milkwoods, and waterberries. It’s a truly immersive experience that allows you to get up close and personal with the natural wonders of the area.

Not only is the boat trip a great way to explore the diverse plant life, but it’s also incredible value for money. For just R250 per person, you can enjoy 90 minutes of pure nature immersion. It’s an affordable adventure that’s perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

So why not take to the skies and embark on this memorable journey? The boat trip along Blyderivierspoort Dam is an experience you won’t want to miss. To book your adventure, call 081 487 2267 or visit blydecanyon.co.za.

1. Take to the skies

Wow, have you ever seen a helicopter flight over the canyon? Let me tell you, it’s absolutely breathtaking. When I took off from Hoedspruit Civil Airfield, I couldn’t believe the view below me. The Lowveld stretched out in front of me, revealing its incredible beauty.

As the helicopter soared higher and higher, I got to see the Blyderivierspoort Dam near Swadini from a completely different perspective. It was like I was floating in the sky, looking down at this amazing sight. But that was just the beginning.

Next, the helicopter flew over Bourkes Luck Potholes. These incredible rock formations looked even more stunning from above. And then, I got to see the Three Rondavels from the air – it was like being on top of the world.

But the sights didn’t end there. The helicopter pilot took me to see several breathtaking waterfalls, cliffs, and grasslands. It was a whirlwind tour of nature’s magnificence.

Unfortunately, there are some restrictions that prevent us from entering the canyon. But the helicopter ride was the closest I could get to experiencing what it’s like to have the view of an eagle. Trust me, it was worth it.

If you’re interested in taking this once-in-a-lifetime trip, it’s important to know that the price starts at R10 465 for a one-hour sightseeing flight. Oh, and just so you know, each helicopter can accommodate a maximum of three passengers, so you can bring along some friends or family to share this unforgettable experience.

If this sounds like something you’d love to do, you can contact them at 083 615 7605 or visit their website at hopeforwildlife.africa. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Stay Here

Welcome to Kruger Cliffs!

At Kruger Cliffs, we offer modern, fully-equipped self-catering units that guarantee you privacy and give you everything you need for a comfortable stay. Our units come with individual splash pools, outdoor showers, and incredible views of the mountain. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, we have the perfect accommodation for you.

When you stay with us, you have the freedom to plan your own meals and enjoy the convenience of a self-catering setup. Our rates start from R968 per person per night, and children under 12 can stay for as little as R242. So, you can bring the whole family along without breaking the bank.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature while enjoying all the comforts of a modern home. To make a reservation, simply call us at 073 881 1334 or visit our website at krugercliffs.com.

Take a look at this stunning photograph of Umvangati House. It’s a modern and luxurious retreat nestled in the mountains, where you can indulge in understated luxury and be surrounded by breathtaking views. The rooms start at R5,295 per night, and you can contact them at 081 237 9706 or visit their website umvangati.co.za.

For those on a budget, Forever Resorts has some great options for you. They offer budget accommodation at Swadini and along the Panorama Route, with chalets starting at R1,361 per night. If you prefer camping, you can book a stand for only R210 and pay R80 per person per night. To make a reservation, call 086 122 6966 or visit foreverblydecanyon.co.za.

This article was originally featured in the January 2022 print issue of Getaway. The words were written by Dianne Tipping-Woods, and the stunning photographs were taken by Dianne Tipping-Woods, Rogan Kerr, and Emma Gatland.

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