Three Rondavels Viewpoint - Image 1
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Three Rondavels Viewpoint

4.7
·5k reviews·, South Africa

Witness the iconic Three Rondavels, majestic geological formations overlooking the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon. A must-see on the Panorama Route.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late April afternoons

Perfect weather, peaceful environment

CrowdLow
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Three Rondavels Viewpoint - Image 1

Three Rondavels Viewpoint

Best Time

Late April afternoons

Perfect weather, peaceful environment

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"Wow!! Just wow!! It was so beautiful. I can’t even put into words how stunning this was."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Rondavels

The Three Rondavels

Main viewpoint

Iconic geological formations resembling traditional huts, offering a truly magical and unforgettable sight.

African Craft Stalls

African Craft Stalls

Near the viewpoints

Discover unique, beautiful African art and souvenirs from local vendors. Perfect for finding a memorable keepsake.

Canyon Stroll

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Views, Ignore the Neglect

The Three Rondavels Viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas, but be prepared for some upkeep issues. While the natural beauty is undeniable, some visitors note neglected facilities and informal traders. Focus on the stunning scenery and enjoy the vibrant local crafts.

Affordable Beauty, Bring Cash

Entry to the Three Rondavels Viewpoint is incredibly affordable, making it a must-see. Many informal traders sell beautiful African crafts, so having cash on hand is recommended if you plan to shop. The two viewpoints offer distinct, stunning perspectives.

Best Times

When
Late April afternoons
Why
Perfect weather, peaceful environment
Crowd
Low
When
Morning
Why
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Three Rondavels situated in the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga. Entrance Fee: R45 for adults and R30 for kids Opens daily: 07:00 till 17:00 Absolutely loved these Rondavels which look like Huts Rating: 10/10 #travel #mpumalanga #southaafrica #bucketlist #nature
@rsabucketlist
29.1K likes • 468.3K views

📸 Two Stunning Viewpoints

Don't miss both viewpoints! The left one is often considered even more gorgeous than the right. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Crafts

Street sellers offer beautiful African pieces. Have cash ready for souvenirs. Reddit

Have you visited the Three Rondavels? 🤯😍 This viewpoint literally took our breath away! Just a short walk from the parking lot and you have access to incredible views over the canyon. Blyde Canyon is a bucketlist experience for sure 😍😍 - - - - - - - - - - - #viral #southafrica #travelgram #hikingbangers #loveafrica #proudlysouthafrican #imstaying #canyon #sheisnotlost #wanderwomeninc
life_of_betts
2.3K likes • 45.2K views
📍1. Three Rondavels, Viewpoint in the Mpumalanga Highlands of South Africa 2. Safari in Kruger National Park 3. Beach in Ponto de Ouro 4. Self Drive Safari 5. Village in Eswatini 5. Walking Safari with giraffes and rhinos in Hlane #africa #southafrica #mozambique #travelphotography #travel #travelblogger #trending #pocahontas #trendingsongs #slovak #slovakwoman #explore #world #safari
sjuzan
212 likes • 6.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy the Canyon Walk

A walk into the canyon offers incredible nature and a peaceful environment. Reddit

R25 Entry Fee

Super affordable entry fee per person, making it a great value for the views. Reddit

Imprescindibles de la ruta en coche más bonita de Sudáfrica 🫶🇿🇦 📍Three Rondavels Viewpoint 📍Bourke´s Lukes Potholes 📍Berlin Falls 📍Lisbon Falls #sudafrica #sudáfrica #sudafrica🇿🇦 #rutapanorama #panoramaroute #southafrica #southafrican #southafricatravel #visitsouthafrica #travel #travelgram #reels #travelreels
stampbystamptravel
0 likes • 8.3K 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. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Crafts

Street sellers offer beautiful African pieces. Have cash ready for souvenirs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy the Canyon Walk

A walk into the canyon offers incredible nature and a peaceful environment. Reddit

R25 Entry Fee

Super affordable entry fee per person, making it a great value for the views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

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

Magical, stunning views
Affordable entry fee
Beautiful African crafts

What People Dislike

Neglected facilities
Informal traders

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The viewpoint is situated near the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. Nearby towns include Graskop and Hazyview, which offer accommodation and amenities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entry fee is very affordable, typically around R25 per person, making it a budget-friendly attraction. Reddit

No, advance booking is generally not required. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival at the viewpoint. Reddit

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. Reddit

The main fee is for entry. Be aware that informal traders may be present, and any purchases from them are separate transactions. Reddit

The entrance fee is usually per person, not per vehicle, making it an accessible cost for most visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Mornings often offer clearer skies and softer light. Late afternoons can also be beautiful with golden hour lighting, but check for potential haze. Reddit

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. Reddit

The viewpoint overlooks the Blyde River Canyon and showcases the unique geological formations known as the Three Rondavels, resembling traditional huts. Reddit

While not always advertised, some local tour operators might offer photography-focused tours of the Panorama Route, which would include this viewpoint. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Facilities can be basic. While there are toilets, some visitors have noted they are not well-maintained. Informal traders are present. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the pathways. Dress in layers as the weather can change. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Three Rondavels Viewpoint offers a fantastic opportunity for families to witness dramatic natural beauty. The main viewpoints are easily accessible, making it manageable for younger children. The affordable entry fee is a big plus for family budgets. Reddit

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. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This viewpoint is a dream for budget travelers, with an incredibly low entry fee of around R25 per person. It offers world-class scenery without a hefty price tag. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology of the Three Rondavels

The striking formations known as the Three Rondavels are a testament to the erosive power of nature. These distinctive, round-shaped hills are composed of shale and andesite, standing tall against the backdrop of the Blyde River Canyon. Their name comes from their resemblance to the traditional round huts (rondavels) of the indigenous people of South Africa. The canyon itself is one of the largest in the world, carved over millions of years by the Blyde River. The sheer scale and unique shapes make this a truly awe-inspiring geological wonder. Reddit

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. Reddit

Navigating the Panorama Route

The Three Rondavels Viewpoint is a highlight of the Panorama Route, a scenic journey through Mpumalanga, South Africa, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. This route is best explored by car, allowing you the flexibility to stop at various viewpoints and attractions at your own pace. Key stops include God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and the Blyde River Canyon. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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