Three Rondavels Viewpoint
Witness the iconic Three Rondavels, majestic geological formations overlooking the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon. A must-see on the Panorama Route.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect weather, peaceful environment
Three Rondavels Viewpoint
Best Time
Perfect weather, peaceful environment
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the iconic Three Rondavels, majestic geological formations overlooking the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon. A must-see on the Panorama Route.
"Wow!! Just wow!! It was so beautiful. I can’t even put into words how stunning this was."
📸 Two Stunning Viewpoints
Don't miss both viewpoints! The left one is often considered even more gorgeous than the right.
💰 Bring Cash for Crafts
Street sellers offer beautiful African pieces. Have cash ready for souvenirs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Rondavels
Main viewpoint
Iconic geological formations resembling traditional huts, offering a truly magical and unforgettable sight.
African Craft Stalls
Near the viewpoints
Discover unique, beautiful African art and souvenirs from local vendors. Perfect for finding a memorable keepsake.
Canyon Stroll
Pathways leading from viewpoint
Enjoy a peaceful walk into the canyon for different perspectives of the landscape. Not strenuous, especially in cooler weather.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Ignore the Neglect
Affordable Beauty, Bring Cash
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Two Stunning Viewpoints
Don't miss both viewpoints! The left one is often considered even more gorgeous than the right.
💰 Bring Cash for Crafts
Street sellers offer beautiful African pieces. Have cash ready for souvenirs.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Canyon Walk
A walk into the canyon offers incredible nature and a peaceful environment.
R25 Entry Fee
Super affordable entry fee per person, making it a great value for the views.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Two Stunning Viewpoints
Don't miss both viewpoints! The left one is often considered even more gorgeous than the right.
💰 Bring Cash for Crafts
Street sellers offer beautiful African pieces. Have cash ready for souvenirs.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Canyon Walk
A walk into the canyon offers incredible nature and a peaceful environment.
R25 Entry Fee
Super affordable entry fee per person, making it a great value for the views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Three Rondavels Viewpoint for its absolutely magical and stunning natural beauty, with two distinct viewpoints offering unique perspectives. The affordable entry fee is a major draw, and many enjoy browsing the beautiful African crafts sold by local vendors. However, some reviews mention a lack of maintenance in facilities and pathways, alongside a significant presence of informal traders.
"What a gorgeous spot! 2 different viewpoints start with the right one as the left one is even more gorgeous! There are also quite some street sellers of beautiful African pieces, if your interested then this is definetly the place to score one!"
Lars Maatman
"Wow!! How did they manage to neglect such a stunning place! Toilets a mess and pathways not maintained. Lots of informal traders. The view is magical and well worth it. Sorry about the neglect!! Something needs to be done here… and quick. Overseas visitors must really be disappointed."
Nina Naude
"Wow!! Just wow!! It was so beautiful. I can’t even put into words how stunning this was.
Super affordable at R25 per person.
It has the cutest stalls and the two view points are so different and stunning. 😍 love it love it love it."
Samantha Alice Rae
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Three Rondavels Viewpoint is located along the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, South Africa. It's accessible by car, typically as part of a scenic drive. Many guided tours also include this stop.
Yes, signage is generally good along the Panorama Route, guiding you to the Three Rondavels Viewpoint. It's a popular stop, so it's well-marked.
The most common route is via the R532 road, which is part of the famous Panorama Route. This route offers several other stunning viewpoints as well.
Public transport options are limited and not very convenient for reaching the Three Rondavels Viewpoint directly. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is highly recommended.
The viewpoint is situated near the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. Nearby towns include Graskop and Hazyview, which offer accommodation and amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is very affordable, typically around R25 per person, making it a budget-friendly attraction.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival at the viewpoint.
The viewpoint is typically open during daylight hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery throughout the day. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check locally if possible.
The main fee is for entry. Be aware that informal traders may be present, and any purchases from them are separate transactions.
The entrance fee is usually per person, not per vehicle, making it an accessible cost for most visitors.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The main viewpoints offer iconic shots. For different angles, consider the short walk into the canyon. The two distinct viewpoints provide varied photographic opportunities.
Mornings often offer clearer skies and softer light. Late afternoons can also be beautiful with golden hour lighting, but check for potential haze.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in nature reserves. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The viewpoint overlooks the Blyde River Canyon and showcases the unique geological formations known as the Three Rondavels, resembling traditional huts.
While not always advertised, some local tour operators might offer photography-focused tours of the Panorama Route, which would include this viewpoint.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Facilities can be basic. While there are toilets, some visitors have noted they are not well-maintained. Informal traders are present.
The main viewpoints are easily accessible. There's an option for a walk into the canyon, which is described as not strenuous but can be long.
There are no formal restaurants or cafes directly at the viewpoint. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine in nearby towns like Graskop.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the pathways. Dress in layers as the weather can change.
The main viewing platforms are generally accessible, but pathways into the canyon may be uneven. It's best to inquire locally about specific accessibility details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main views are captivating, consider the short walk into the canyon if your children enjoy a bit of adventure. It's not overly strenuous and offers a different perspective. Be mindful of the informal traders; it can be a good opportunity to teach children about local crafts and responsible shopping, perhaps with a small budget for souvenirs. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider packing your own food and drinks. While there are informal traders selling crafts, you can practice your bargaining skills or simply enjoy window shopping. Renting a car and driving the Panorama Route yourself is often more economical than organized tours if you're traveling with a small group.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the Three Rondavels
Visitors often marvel at how these formations were sculpted. The softer rock layers eroded more quickly, leaving the harder, more resistant caps to form the distinctive rounded peaks. The contrast between the lush green vegetation clinging to the canyon walls and the stark beauty of the Rondavels creates a visually stunning panorama that draws visitors from around the globe. It's a landscape that inspires a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.
Navigating the Panorama Route
When planning your visit, consider the time of year. Late April, as mentioned by one traveler, offered perfect weather and a peaceful environment, suggesting that shoulder seasons might be ideal for avoiding peak crowds and enjoying comfortable temperatures. The route can be driven in a day, but to truly appreciate each stop, it's recommended to allocate at least two days. Be prepared for winding roads and stunning vistas around every corner.
While the main viewpoints are easily accessible, some attractions like the walk into the canyon at Three Rondavels offer a more immersive experience for those who enjoy a bit of exploration. Remember to factor in time for spontaneous stops and to soak in the incredible scenery. The Panorama Route is not just about the destination, but the entire journey through this spectacular landscape.



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