Must-see attractions in Drakensberg Escarpment

This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye…

The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of…

These bizarre cylindrical holes were carved into the rock by whirlpools at the confluence of the Blyde and Treur Rivers. Bridges span the rivers,…

This centre, south of town off Rte 540, teaches visitors about raptor species and the dangers facing them – you can even spend a morning learning the art…

Affords stunning views up the canyon, to the glistening Blydepoort Dam at the far end surrounded by forested slopes. The rocky cones of the Three…

The town museum is well worth a stop, going back to the Pedi, who arrived here in the 18th century, and the Voortrekkers, who founded the town the…

This glass viewing elevator travels 51m down the sheer cliffs of Graskop Gorge, with views of the Big Swing opposite, to an elevated forest boardwalk,…

Just southeast of town along the Graskop road is the open-air Diggings Museum, where you can see how gold was panned. You need to visit on a tour, which…

A viewpoint offering amazing vistas. Take the trail up to the rainforest (300 steps), where you might spot rare birds, including the elusive loerie, on…

This waterfall is a highlight of the Blyde River Canyon area, especially in summer (October to March), when the water flows hardest.

A striking skyscraper-like rock formation.

This museum has displays on local forests and the history of the South African timber industry. There's a historical examination of the use of timber and…

Gustav Klingbiel is 20 sq km of prime birdwatching territory, and you might spot zebras, giraffes, jackals, servals, warthogs and numerous antelope from…

Stone Age relics have been found in these caves, which were discovered in 1923 and named after dripstone formations that echo when tapped. The one-hour…

A former mine-manager’s residence at the northern edge of town, beautifully decked out in 1920s style with original artefacts. Tours need to be booked 30…

Great for classic-car enthusiasts, this museum illustrates the development of transport in Pilgrim's Rest from 19th-century ox wagons to Ford, Bedford and…

This museum explores the history of printing in the town and has a collection of old presses. A section covers the impact of the Anglo-Boer War, WWI and…

The Dredzen Store is a general store recreated as it would have been in 1930s, complete with vintage advertisements and chairs hanging from the ceiling.

This restored Victorian home is full of B&W photos, old dolls and furniture, including a wooden carved commode in the main bedroom.

Crashing down the cliffs, this waterfall is at its most impressive in summer (October to March), when there is most water.