Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
The Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world (26 946 ha), after the Grand Canyon in the United States and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia, and is the largest ‘green canyon’ due to its lush subtropical foliage, with the deepest precipitous cliffs of any canyon on the planet.
One of the most-visited attractions in South Africa, the Blyde River Canyon is 26 kilometres in length and is, on average, around 800m deep. The Blydepoort/Blyderivierspoort Dam, when full, is at an altitude of 665m (2182 feet).
The canyon offers stunning views of towering cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and cascading waterfalls. Blyde River Canyon tourism attractions include spectacular views such as the magnificent God’s Window, The Three Rondavels and The Pinnacles.
The development of the Cableway Project
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) is a section 21 company, situated in Mpumalanga, Nelspruit. It was established through the Mpumalanga Tourism Act of 2005. The MTPA Act, 2005, provides for the sustainable development and improvement of the tourism industry and conservation management of the natural resources of Mpumalanga.
The proposed Cableway Project is located in the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. The cableway is planned to stretch from the Three Rondavels site to the Swadini Dam site.
The land allocated for the site is communal land. Ownership of such land is vested in the respective communities through the Communal Property Associations (CPAs), namely Maorabjang, Moletele, Setlhare and Mahubahuba A Bokone. The land claimed by each respective CPA is stated in the concluded land settlement agreement.
Project description
The proposed cableway development will provide visitors with a unique view of the Blyde River Canyon. Facilities such as improved parking, a restaurant and curio stalls are also envisaged.
The proposed development will enhance all facilities at this unique tourism attraction and complement other proposed developments at the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve.
Project status
- The Feasibility Study has been conducted.
- Environmental Impact Assessment Study completed.
- Currently at Pre-implementation, includes the registration of the project with the National Treasury as a PPP project.
Next steps:
Packaging of the project and update of feasibility study, submission to SA National Treasury for approval, in order to commence with the procurement process.
Location
The project is located in Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, within the Ehlanzeni District Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.
- Investment value: R294-million
- Partnerships: Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
Contact
For more information, or to engage in discussions, potential investment partners are encouraged to send a brief introduction to the project team:
