Blyde River Canyon Hiking Trail

Blyde River Canyon Hiking Trail

Demanding canyon-to-escarpment route through one of South Africa's biggest canyon systems, with big elevation shifts and remote camps.

Mpumalanga Multi-day hike Severe South Africa
60.0 km Total distance
4 Days recommended
Very high Fitness demand
Severe Difficulty

Trail overview

  • Distance: 60.0 km
  • Days recommended: 4
  • Area: Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
  • Nearest town: Graskop
  • Start point: Bourke's Luck / reserve sector
  • End point: Blydepoort / reserve sector
  • Fitness demand: Very high
  • Technical difficulty: High
  • Navigation complexity: Some route-finding required
  • Best season: Winter
  • Water availability: Seasonal
  • Accommodation: Mixed

Planning info

  • Booking required: Yes
  • Permit required: Yes
  • Escape routes: Exit options are limited once committed to the canyon stages.
  • Risk factors: Heat exposure, River crossings, Exposure to heights, Isolation
  • Booking link: View booking info
  • Primary source: View source
  • Last verified: 2026-04-20
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