Lisbon Falls

Lisbon Falls is a prominent natural attraction located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, renowned as the highest waterfall in the region. Situated just north of the forestry town of Graskop, it forms part of the scenic Panorama Route, a popular tourist drive showcasing some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes. The falls are named after the capital city of Portugal, a nomenclature that, along with other nearby falls like Berlin and Mac-Mac, reflects the historical presence of miners who arrived in the late 1800s to pan for gold in the area.The waterfall itself is a majestic triple cascade, plunging an impressive 90 to 94 meters (308 feet) in a double stream over a semicircular rock face into the Lisbon Creek, a tributary of the Blyde River. Visitors can access a vantage point at the base of the falls via a 100-meter footpath from the parking area, offering spectacular views and frequent opportunities to see rainbows. The surrounding area provides lovely shaded picnic spots, making it an ideal location for relaxation amidst nature.Lisbon Falls is easily accessible, located approximately three kilometers south of the Berlin Falls. To reach it, travelers turn onto a gravel road 800 meters south of the R532 and R534 junction, continuing for 2.2 km to the parking area. The site is also a haven for bird lovers, with many avian species, including colorful sunbirds, inhabiting the Panorama Route. Notably, the rare Blyde River protea (Protea laetans) can be found here, one of the few locations outside the Cape Floral Kingdom where this species occurs. While close to God's Window, the falls are just outside the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, yet remain a central point for exploring other nearby attractions like Bourke's Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels. Entry to Lisbon Falls requires a fee: R25 for South African citizens with ID and R50 for SADC and foreign nationals with passports.