The rock ledge
Water falling in several streams.
Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE — CC BY-SA 2.0 · South African Tourism from South Africa — CC BY 2.0 · Daniel Kraft — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Pavel Špindler — CC BY 3.0 · PanWoyteczek — CC BY 4.0
Lisbon Falls is one of the finest stops on the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, near the town of Graskop in northeast South Africa. The water drops from a rock ledge in several streams to a dark green pool in a forested valley, and visitors stand at lookouts to photograph the scene. The falls lie on the eastern edge of the Drakensberg, close to the Blyde River Canyon and sights such as God's Window. This area flourished in the 19th century with the gold rush, when prospectors gathered at nearby Pilgrim's Rest. The road is now among the country's best known scenic drives, popular with people visiting Kruger. From above you see the red rock ledge and thick greenery around it, and the narrow stream dividing before it falls. The flow changes with the season, usually heavier in the summer rains and lighter in dry spells. At the edge the valley stretches away towards distant mountains. It is 4.6 km in a straight line from Graskop and 8.5 km from Pilgrim's Rest, so it fits a half-day tour. Do not cross the lookout barriers or go near the edge, as the rocks are slippery. Mist sometimes hides the view in the morning, so try again later. Carry small cash for the fee.
Water falling in several streams.
At the foot of a forested valley.
Facing the whole scene.
Panorama Route, near Graskop, Mpumalanga
In the summer rains, and lighter in the dry season.
Yes, it is on the Panorama Route, with God's Window, the Blyde Canyon and Pilgrim's Rest.