The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has announced the temporary closure of God’s Window and The Pinnacle, following the earlier shutdown of Bourke’s Luck Potholes, as persistent heavy rainfall continues to affect parts of the Mpumalanga escarpment.
According to the MTPA, the decision follows additional on-site safety assessments, which identified heightened risks linked to saturated ground, slippery walkways, reduced visibility, and potential rockfalls. These precautionary closures have been implemented to protect both visitors and staff until weather conditions improve and the sites can be safely reopened.
What travellers should know about God’s Window
God’s Window is one of the most iconic viewpoints along the Panorama Route, offering sweeping views over the Lowveld and, on clear days, as far as the Kruger National Park and Mozambique. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,700 metres above sea level, the site is particularly vulnerable to mist, strong winds, and heavy rainfall, which can significantly reduce visibility and make footpaths hazardous. During adverse weather, the lookout often becomes completely obscured by cloud, limiting the visitor experience even when technically accessible.
Closure impact at The Pinnacle
The Pinnacle is a dramatic freestanding quartzite rock column rising from indigenous forest near Graskop. The site is accessed via steep paths and viewing platforms, which can become extremely slippery during prolonged rainfall. Ongoing wet conditions increase the risk of erosion and falling debris, prompting authorities to restrict access until safety standards can be assured.
Travel advice for the Panorama Route
Travellers planning to explore the Panorama Route are advised to monitor official updates from the MTPA, allow for itinerary flexibility, and consider alternative attractions that remain open and safe. Weather conditions in the region can change rapidly, particularly during the rainy season, and further closures may be announced at short notice.
Visitors are strongly urged not to attempt access to closed viewpoints and to respect all safety signage and instructions. Updates on reopening dates will be communicated once conditions stabilise and thorough safety inspections have been completed.
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