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Visit the dramatic Lisbon Falls
The Lisbon Falls, Mpumalanga
Lisbon Falls, Mpumalanga
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
There are more waterfalls in this region of Mpumalanga than anywhere else in southern Africa.
You'll find the dramatic Lisbon Falls, the highest in South Africa, north of the little town of Graskop in Mpumalanga, just outside the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. It's situated in a very rich waterfall area - in fact, there are more waterfalls here than in any other part of southern Africa.
The Lisbon Falls in Mpumalanga lies within the popular Panorama Route, where you can visit some of the very best natural attractions in the region, including the Pinnacle, God's Window, Bourke's Potholes, and some of the other waterfalls in the area including the Mac Mac Falls and Berlin Falls.
Follow the river as it snakes along its natural path until you reach the falls. There the river branches spectacularly into three streams before cascading 92m down onto the rocks below, where it throws up deluges of white spray. When you stand on the rocky viewing point at the top of the falls you get the illusion that you are behind the curtains of water.
If you're fit, complete your experience of the Lisbon Falls in Mpumalanga with a climb down to the bottom of the gorge where the water foams and churns. Because the path down to the gorge is not a proper trail it's a challenging descent and will take you an hour or so, but when you reach the bottom you'll be refreshed and rejuvenated by the sound of the rushing water as it plunges down into the deep green pool.
Set in a bowl of hills, the waterfall in Mpumalanga is a great place to unwind after a day's hectic sightseeing in the area. Pack a picnic and relax under shady trees in one of the most scenic picnic places in the area. Watch out for some fascinating birdlife including tiny colourful sunbirds.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Graskop Tourism
Tel:+27 (0)13 767 1886
Email: info@graskop.co.za
How to get here
It is easiest to reach by car. You travel 2,2 km along a gravel road that leads west from the R532 between Graskop and the Blyde River Canyon. The turn-off to the falls is about 800 m along.
Around the area
Nearby attractions include God's Window & Wonder View, Blyde River Canyon (3rd largest canyon in the world) and other waterfalls.
Tours to do
Lisbon falls are included on The Panorama route - the tour covers 130 km and lasts 4 hours.
Get around
There are walking trails around the waterfall.
What will it cost
There is no entry fee to visit this waterfall.
Length of stay
Half day
Where to stay
There are plenty of accommodation options in and around the town of Graskop, including hotels, lodges, B*Bs and guesthouses.
What to eat
There are restaurants and fast-food outlets in Graskop.
What's happening
Paradise Rally takes place in nearby Graskop overthe 1st weekend in June. The Forest to Falls Mountain Bike race takes place in May.
Best buys
Souvenirs include local curios, traditional art, as well as African leather goods.