The Panorama Route just got a new tourist attraction. In December 2017 the Graskop Gorge Lift opened to the public, adding another must-do stop to this already impressive scenic drive.
What is the Graskop Gorge Lift?
The Graskop Gorge Lift is an elevator on the southern wall of the Graskop Gorge. It drops 51 meter (167 feet) down the gorge, taking you to the forest below. During the ride, you can watch the view change through the glass window.
Once you’ve reached the bottom of the gorge, you’ll be stepping out onto a wooden boardwalk. Follow it in either direction for a 600 meter (0.37 miles) tour through the forest. All along this loop walk you can find information signs and quotes telling you more about the forest and its inhabitants.
From one of the swing bridges you’ll have a nice view on the Graskop Falls. If your timing is right, you’ll hear a scream, followed by a person swinging on a rope above your head. There’s no Tarzan in the Graskop Gorge, but there is a cable gorge swing across from the lift. Daredevils will jump towards a 68 meter (223 feet) free fall into the gorge.
How much does a ride on the Graskop Gorge Lift cost?
A ride on the Graskop Gorge Lift will cost you R190 (~ $13 ~ €11.40) per person if you’re an adult. The wristband you get is valid for the rest of the day, good for as many trips to the bottom of the gorge as you like. Nice gesture, but 1 trip down and another up will probably suffice. So many things to see on the Panorama Route!
We refer to the Graskop Gorge Lift website for up-to-date ticketing information.
If you’re not interested in a visit to the bottom of the Graskop Gorge, we still recommend to pull over at the Graskop Gorge Lift for the view from the top. It’s free and pretty impressive! You can see the Graskop Falls and maybe a Big Swinger. There are souvenir shops as well (inside and out), a toilet, and a café where you can have a drink or some food with a view. You could even make use of their free WiFi.
The Graskop Gorge Lift is definitely worth a stop when you’re driving the Panorama Route. The view is stunning, with a pretty impressive waterfall. Allow for about an hour to “live the view and feel the forest” as their slogan suggests.
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Seems like a fun! And the view must be breathtaking! I love this kind of attraction when you getting to know a new place, especially when the landscape is this beautiful. And the price… In Brazil, where I live, a ride like this in a touristy place, would cost me at least US$30 , so Graskop Gorge would be a yes yes yes for me!
– https://www.brunabersch.com/
Thanks for commenting, Bruna! The view was indeed very impressive. Is South Africa on your bucket list? It should be! 😉