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Mac-Mac is a historical area in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa and the site of the country’s earliest gold rush. It is located near the town of Sabie, 5 km from Pilgrim’s Rest.
Gold was discovered in 1872 by Thomas Mclachlan and partners. This triggered the first gold rush in South Africa and diggers from all over started to flock to what later became ‘Mac-Mac’. Alex “wheelbarrow” Patterson discovered rich gold deposits in the Pilgrim’s Creek in September 1873. The nearby Mac Mac twin falls, originally a single stream, acquired their current appearance when gold miners blasted the stream to reach the gold-bearing reef over which it drops.
The quaint old gold mining town of Pilgrim’s Rest is the starting point of the epic journey. The history of gold mining operations in the Pilgrim’s Rest area goes back more than 160 years. The trail passes many relics from these early days of mining as one climbs away from the start.
The Fanie Botha Trail is situated in the Sabie area and located on the Drakensberg escarpment. On this trail, runners can admire the Lone Creek and Mac Mac Falls – both national monuments – or just get carried away by the scenic grandeur of the Drakensberg. Some of the main attractions on this section are Mount Moodie, Mac Mac Pools, Mac Mac Falls and more than 5 other waterfalls.
The Prospector’s trail is a unique trail that beautifully combines the historical interests and natural environment of the area.
When traveling through the southern half of Africa, there is an abundance of wildlife, untouched landscapes, and natural beauty to be found. The Panorama Route of South Africa offers all of this in an easy-to-follow map.
The route starts near Nelspruit/Mbombela, a town in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province, and ends at the Limpopo Province border, near the well-known Kruger National Park. It’s an incredibly beautiful trip, ideal for families and nature lovers.
Graskop Gorge is located just outside of the town of Graskop. It’s a naturally rich gorge that offers stunning views of the Lowveld. There are many activities to enjoy here, such as the lift, a short walk or even zip lining.
We ventured out to try out the gorge lift. The lift can fit 26 passengers, who will be lowered 51m into the forest below. Once at the bottom, you can take a wander through the 500m of walkways and bridges. Then, you’ll be taken back up to the top where you can continue on your adventure.
HOURS
Monday to Sunday: 08h30 to 17h00.
PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE A DAY VISIT VENUE AND DO NOT HAVE ACCOMMODATION. If you need accommodation, please google accommodation in Graskop.
To view our entrance fees and prices, click here: https://www.graskopgorgeliftcompany.co.za/rates.html
For more information, visit www.gglc.co.za or call 066 305 1572.
Standing prominently against a majestic backdrop of Driekop Gorge is Pinnacle Rock. This 98 ft natural formation is a popular stop on the panorama route self-drive map, attracting many visitors looking to admire and photograph its beauty.
The rock is located in a protected area, so you’ll pay a small fee to enter this area. Inside the area, you’ll find toilets, curio stalls for souvenirs, and a car park for around 30 cars.
There is one main viewpoint (REALLY close to the car park) to view Pinnacle Rock and a few others where you can see the surrounding waterfalls and the canyon’s vegetation and wildlife
HOURS
Daily 07:00 – 17:00
This magnificently gorgeous viewpoint over the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve gets its name from the breathtaking views over the world’s greenest canyon. It’s easy to feel like you’re, quite literally, on top of the world as you look over the stunning Lowveld landscape.
Open daily, during daylight hours
A stunning natural water feature, the Bourkes’ Luck Potholes mark the beginning of the Blyde River Canyon. Named after Tim Burke, a gold digger who predicted gold deposits in the area, although he himself was unsuccessful in finding any.
The ‘potholes’ in the riverbanks have been formed from hundreds of years of water rushing from the Treur River into the Blyde River Canyon. The natural formation is a sight to behold and brings many admirers to the visitors’ center.
There are walkways and bridges that lead to a railed viewpoint. This offers amazing views of the potholes and the surrounding natural wonders.
Opening hours: Daily 07:00 – 17:00
Another incredible natural formation, the Three Rondavels are named for their resemblance to traditional African huts. Viewing these hilltops is best done from the viewpoint, which looks out onto the Blyde River Canyon as well.
The viewpoint is located just 200m from the parking, and it’s an easy walk – perfect for small kids to enjoy as well. The parking lot also often has small stalls selling African crafts for souvenirs and gifts.
Opening hours: Daily 08:00 – 17:00
Whilst we have only listed our favorite stops along the Panorama Route, you can also include the following stops. The Lisbon Falls, Berlin Falls and Mac Mac Falls are the most impressive.
