Panorama Route Alert: Emergency repairs begin on P33/4 (R536) Sabie – Hazyview!

last updated: 02 February 2026 

The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport has confirmed that repair work on the P33/4 road between Sabie and Hazyview is set to begin following multiple slope failures along this key route. The announcement was made on 31 January 2026, with construction teams now mobilised on site after the completion of main road works.

Emergency rehabilitation will focus on seven identified slip failures, which have compromised sections of the road embankment. According to the department, the repairs will involve backfilling and reshaping the affected embankments to restore the original road profile, ensuring long-term structural stability and improved safety for motorists.

The P33/4 is a vital link along Mpumalanga’s iconic Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most celebrated scenic drives. Popular with both domestic and international travellers, this route provides essential access to major attractions including God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and several of the region’s famous waterfalls.

Road users and tourists travelling between Sabie, Hazyview, and the Kruger National Park are advised to remain alert during the construction period and to expect possible delays while emergency repairs are underway. Once completed, the rehabilitation is expected to significantly improve driving conditions along this important tourism corridor.

Provincial Route P33/4, also shown as the R536 on Google Maps, is the scenic road that links Sabie and Hazyview winding from the misty Mpumalanga Escarpment down to the Lowveld. This route forms a key part of the famous Panorama Route, giving travellers easy access to breathtaking views, waterfalls, and other must-see attractions along one of South Africa’s most iconic drives.

 

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Kruger National Park: The R536 road between Hazyview and Kruger National Park is partially closed due to flooding! [update]

update (01 March 2019): The R536 road has been re-opened, but is rather "muddy".

update (01 March 2019): Guests travelling to/from Kruger National Park should avoid using Phabeni Gate and Paul Kruger Gate until further notice. South African National Parks (SANParks) advises visitors to Kruger National Park to enter/exit the Park via Numbi Gate or Malelane Gate.

update (01 March 2019): The R536 road between Hazyview and Tshabalala Village is temporarily closed due to an overflowing bridge in the Tshabalala area (outside Phabeni Gate).

South African National Parks (SANParks) just informed the public via twitter and facebook that the R536 road between Hazyview and Mkhuhlu is currently closed due an overflow caused by the ongoing rain. This affects routes to Kruger National Park's Paul Kruger Gate and Phabeni Gate. SANParks advises travellers to use alternative routes. The section of the R536 road will remain closed until further notice. We'll keep you posted!