When you think of Mpumalanga, South Africa’s “Place of the Rising Sun,” it’s hard not to first think about some of its out-of-this-world landscapes.

It is home to lush valleys, roaring waterfalls, expansive viewpoints and majestic mountain ranges, making this province an unmissable destination for photographers who love nature and adventure.

If you’re planning a hiking trip through Mpumalanga, this guide will help you find the best spots, the perfect times for shots, and advice on how to make the most of the magic this place has to offer.

  • Golden Hour at God’s Window

God’s Window, one of Mpumalanga’s most famous attractions along the Panorama Route, is an iconic photography destination. This spot gets its name for good reason; the views over the Lowveld that stretch endlessly, making for an awe-inspiring backdrop. You should arrive at dawn to capture the “golden hour” when the first rays of sunlight pierce through the early morning mist, creating a soft glow over everything it touches.

The hike up to God’s Window is relatively short, but it leads to vantage points that will take your breath away. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to shoot wide panoramas of lush forested hills, with layers fading into the horizon. A zoom lens can help isolate details like twisted treetops shrouded in fog, adding a mystical element to your shots.

  • Lisbon Falls

Lisbon Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in South Africa, cascades an impressive 94 meters into a gorge below. This iconic waterfall is best photographed in the morning when the sunlight illuminates the water, casting vivid rainbows on the misty droplets.

The hike to the viewing platforms is simple, allowing you to get various perspectives, from wide-angle views that encompass the entire cascade to close-up shots highlighting the force and texture of the water.

For a unique angle, you should head to the base of the falls (only if the path is safe and not too slippery). Here, you can capture the waterfall framed by lush greenery, with water crashing onto rocks, perfect for long-exposure shots that give the water a dreamy, silky effect.

  • The Pinnacle Rock at Sunset

A towering quartzite rock formation surrounded by indigenous forest, The Pinnacle is a must-visit for any photographer. This tall monolith rises out of the landscape like a lone sentinel.

You should arrive late in the afternoon, as sunset approaches, to capture this remarkable feature when it is bathed in warm orange and red hues. A tripod will help you stabilise your camera for those low-light conditions, allowing for the most vivid and dynamic shots as the sky transforms.

If you’re lucky, a flock of birds might pass by, adding a striking element of movement to your sunset shots.

  • Bermanzi Hiking Trails

Bermanzi Hiking Trails are close to the town of Machadodorp and they have become a firm favourite among photographers wanting to take a walk on the wild side. The trails not only provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, but because this is the perfect place to spend the weekend, those who hike here can also look forward to taking some pretty spectacular starry night shots.

Bring along your wide angle lens as well as some macro filters, to get those finer details.

  • Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon is the third-largest canyon in the world, and hiking its trails offers an endless array of stunning photographic moments. For the best perspective, you should hike to Three Rondavels, a viewpoint named after the three rock formations that resemble traditional African huts.

This spot is especially beautiful at sunrise when the soft light adds depth and dimension to the canyon’s cliffs and the winding river below.

Use a wide-angle lens to truly capture the grandeur of the canyon, but don’t shy away from zooming in on details, the river, the sharp cliffs, or the lush vegetation growing in unexpected places. This is one of those locations where drone photography, if permitted, can also provide a unique vantage point.

  • Forests and Mist at Mac Mac Pools

For a change of scenery, take a hike to the Mac Mac Pools, a place that is surrounded by dense forests and ferns.

These pools are ideal for capturing the tranquillity of Mpumalanga.

Arrive early in the morning when the area is often shrouded in mist, giving your photos a soft, ethereal quality. You can shoot the still pools reflecting the surrounding trees or try capturing the small waterfalls that feed them, ideal for long-exposure techniques to create a calming, blurred water effect.

Photography Tips for Hiking in Mpumalanga

  • Golden Hours – Always aim to photograph at sunrise or sunset for the best light. The golden hour light is softer and warmer, adding a magical touch to landscapes.
  • Be Prepared – Mpumalanga’s weather can change quickly, so be ready with waterproof gear to protect your camera. A sturdy tripod is a must for long-exposure shots at waterfalls.
  • Stay Safe – While seeking the perfect shot, remember that safety comes first. Stick to marked trails and be mindful of slippery rocks, especially near waterfalls.