“Epic summer sunset light bathes one of the deepest and greenest canyons in the world. I really could not believe my luck.”

Blanketed in lush, sub-tropical forests, the Motlatse Canyon (also known as Blyde River Canyon) cuts through 16 miles of the Drakensberg mountain range, its soaring cliffs plunging to the Motlatse River below. The region yields one of the world’s most breathtaking drives along the Panorama Route, from Long Tom Pass near historic Lydenberg, past Victorian gold rush towns and waterfalls, to the ancient Echo Caves near Ohrigstad, now a National Monument. Go slow, and discover your own treasures.

South Africa Travel Guide

National Geographic’s latest travel stories about South Africa