Mariepskop and the Blyde River picnic spot

View from Mariepskop

Nomads Den says

Mariepskop and the Blyde River picnic spot

Mariepskop is the highest point of the Northern Drakensberg close to Hoedspruit. It is accessible by car and your drive will be rewarded by spectacular views of the Blyde Canyon Nature Reserve and of Hoedspruit itself. You can even see the Three Rondavels from Mariepskop. And often you’ll have the view completely to yourself.

Besides the views, there are some more highlights. One of which is a visit to the Klaserie Waterfall. It is also quite the 4×4 drive to get there, but you can stand on top of the waterfall and look down into the gorge. This stop takes a bit more walking (±1.5 km of rugged trail).

All the way down from Mariepskop, you can find the Blyde River Picnic Spot. It is a well hidden spot to have a braai, take a swim in the Blyde River and admire the beautiful gorge from down below. 

Please note the route is only accessible with at least a high clearance vehicle, but often (weather depending) only with a 4×4. 

Mariepskop Details

The access route starts at the former Outback restaurant/garage. Where the R531 goes underneath the railway. You have to follow the dirt road that starts from there.

Extra warning: don’t do this route when you are not confident with the offroad capabilities of your car or yourself.

Contact

Hours

The office where you need to buy your permit of the State Forestry is open daily from 07:00 – 16:00.

Rates

± R 30 p.p. (permit)

Note: Cash only