South Africa's Magnificent Natural Place

South Africa's Magnificent Natural Place

On nice days you can see the sparkling river deep down in the gorge and you will experience the breathtaking silence that hangs over the unique landscape. Three hilltops that look like African round-huts which are called Rondavels. One of the best panoramic vantage points is the "Three Rondavels". Viewpoints are named for the spectacles they offer such as God's window and Wonder view both of which provides wonderful views and fabulous opportunities for the camera..

There are spots along the trail offering abseiling and rock climbing for the more adventurous hiker. These hikes are particularly good for bird-watchers. The trail takes in the canyon itself, waterfalls, lookout points and bridges. But can be split into shorter excursions from 3 days to 1 day, or even a half-day, to cater for all ages and fitness level. The most popular hike is surely the Blyderiverspoort Hiking Trail which takes about five days and runs the length of the canyon.

There are countless hiking-trails navigating the breathtaking nature around the canyon. The area is a popular South African hiking destination not only because of its breathtaking scenic beauty but also because of the wealth of biodiversity it supports. It is the third largest Canyon in the world and the only green Canyon on Earth. Awe-inspiring views over the 33km long chasm provide some indication of the magnitude of this natural phenomenon. The Blyde River Canyon is a magnificent natural feature of South Africa located in Mpumalanga, and forming the northern part of the Darkensberg escarpment.

Misconceptions about South Africa

Our dams are very full and there are no restrictions on water in place. South Africa is one of the countries with the safest drinkable water. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances Yes we do have readily available safe water. Three pronged plugs are universal, so take an adapter.

We use 220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Even most of our informal settlements. All areas of South Africa has electricity. The South African Police are easily recognised in their blue uniforms and by their white and blue patrol vehicles Yes we do have electricity. So let us dismiss this issue.

I don't leave my handbag on the front seat of my car. I don't walk alone at night. But then again I don't go looking for trouble either. I have never (and I am touching wood while I am saying this) been a victim of crime in my 42 years of staying here.

Some media hype in international newspapers just like to blow things out of proportion. It is not that our level of crime is higher or lower than lets say the New York, London, Hong Kong. Yes we do have crime in our country but the same is experienced globally. Probably the most important issue is Safety.

I have heard funny and then also discerning remarks from these clients regarding the perception of South Africa out there. In my line of work I liaise with quite a few people from various countries, (USA, EUROPE, ASIA, ETC). With the FIFA 2010 World Cup soccer being hosted in South Africa in June, I thought it would be a rather good idea to inform potential tourists to our beautiful country about the real deal.