The Panorama Route is one of South Africa's great scenic drives, climbing the Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga to a string of dramatic viewpoints, waterfalls and rock formations. Combined with a safari in Kruger, it makes a rounded three-day trip that balances wildlife with landscapes. The route is typically driven in one direction on the way out or back, with stops at places such as Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest green canyons in the world, and other well-known viewpoints. The trip begins with the drive from Johannesburg to the Mpumalanga lowveld, where you spend time in the Kruger area on game drives led by rangers. Accommodation is usually in a lodge or camp near the park, and the itinerary often includes sunrise and sunset drives. On the way back or on a separate day you visit the escarpment, so you see both the bushveld and the highveld edge.
What to expect
Three days of travel and activity, with a long first day of driving to the lowveld, a day focused on Kruger and a final day taking in the Panorama Route and returning to Johannesburg. Game drives happen in open vehicles with a ranger who explains behaviour and helps spot animals. Meals and accommodation are normally included, but check what is covered. Weather in the mountains can bring mist or cloud, so viewpoints are not always clear.\n\nWhy this combination: Kruger gives you animals, and the Panorama Route gives you spectacle.
Together they provide a more varied trip than a safari alone, which is useful for groups with different interests. It also breaks up the long road journey, since the scenic stops provide natural pauses.\n\nWho it suits: first-time visitors who want a classic South African trip, friends and families with older children, and photographers.
It involves a lot of driving, so it is better for travellers who are comfortable spending time in a vehicle. Those who dislike long road journeys may prefer a fly-in option. Kruger is in a malaria area, so consult a travel clinic beforehand.
\n\nMaking the most of it: bring layers, because mornings in the bush and the mountains can be cold, plus sun protection, binoculars and comfortable shoes for viewpoints. Book early for school holidays and the dry winter months. Treat wildlife sightings as a bonus and not a guarantee, and expect early starts.
Itineraries and inclusions differ by operator, so check them when you book. \n\nPractical notes: viewpoints along the Panorama Route often have small entry fees, craft stalls and basic facilities, so carry some cash and small coins. Fog and low cloud can obscure the canyon, so ask your guide to adjust stops if the weather is poor.
The lowveld is much hotter than the escarpment in summer, and the temperature can change by ten degrees or more over the day, so dress in layers. Keep plenty of water in the vehicle, wear a hat and plan to stay hydrated on game drives, and let the guide know early if you suffer from motion sickness on winding roads. Sunrise on the escarpment can be spectacular when the air is clear, so ask your guide whether the schedule allows an early viewpoint stop.
What to expect
The experience
A three-day road trip combining Kruger game drives with the Panorama Route's canyon, waterfall and escarpment viewpoints.
Best time
Dry months from May to September for wildlife; the escarpment is greenest in summer but can be misty.
How long
Three days, with long driving stretches on the first and last days.
Tips
Bring layers, sun protection and binoculars, and check malaria advice before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want wildlife and scenery in one trip.
- Families
- Suitable for older children who enjoy long days in a vehicle.
- Couples
- A shared adventure with sunrise drives and scenic viewpoints.
- Pair with
- A few days in Johannesburg for Soweto and the Apartheid Museum.
- Time needed
- Three days.
Good questions
What is the Panorama Route?+
It is a scenic route along the Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga with viewpoints, waterfalls and Blyde River Canyon.
How much of the trip is driving?+
A fair amount, particularly on the first and last days. Stops along the way break up the journey.
Is accommodation included?+
Packages normally include lodging and some meals, but this varies. Check inclusions when you book.
When is the best time to go?+
May to September is best for wildlife, while summer is greener but warmer and wetter.
Do I need malaria precautions?+
Kruger is in a malaria area, so see a travel clinic before you travel.
