Graskop may not be one of the most bustling Mpumalanga destinations around but it’s perfectly located as a starting point for your South African safari adventures. This tiny hamlet is located close to all the best things to do in Mpumalanga. It’s nestled in the scenic panorama route close to all the big game attractions, Blyde River Canyon, Lisbon Falls and Three Rondavels.
The latest addition to the fray is the Graskop Gorge Glass Lift (Elevator), one of the most innovative ideas that Mpumalanga tourism has ever seen. It’s also the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Glass Lift of Graskop
While a glass lift (elevator) is something you’d usually expect to find attached to a five-star, sky-scraping hotel, this one clings to the side of a 51m cliff face.
It’s quite a feat of engineering. The lift itself was made by the renowned Otis elevator company and constructed using 88 tons of steel in the shaft with 240 tons of concrete in the foundation. It travels at a rate of 1 metre per second and has a glass panel on the front of the lift from waist height upwards. Up to 26 passengers can take the plunge at one time.
While the lift trip itself is breath-taking, it’s the Afromontane Forest below that really steals the show.
Once you reach the bottom, a 600m (0.3 mile) trail through this leafy wonderland takes you on a whirlwind tour of life in the forest.
There are 6 exhibits along the way which highlight the intricacies of this fragile environment and showcase the many species which depend on it for survival. Viewing decks are also strategically placed to make the most of the views over the waterfall and river.
The first 100m (109 yards) of the trail is safe and accessible for wheelchairs but after that the going gets a little tougher. The paths can be slippery, with steep inclines, rocks and tree branches to negotiate.
It’s a good idea to wear comfortable non-slip walking shoes or hiking boots for this excursion and bring a raincoat in case of drips from the trees above. A camera and binoculars are a must.
Water is available from the swish Lifestyle Centre at the top of the cliff, which also has a number of retail outlets, a restaurant and bar and community craft market. ‘
More Things to Do in Mpumalanga
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