The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has announced temporary access restrictions at the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve in Mpumalanga due to film production activities at the popular Swadini Viewpoint.
Although the official reason for the closure has not been confirmed, several online sources - including posts shared on social media - suggest that the site is being used for the filming of “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! Australia.”
Closure schedule:
- 17 November – 23 December 2025: Waterfall area closed to the public
- 24 November – 24 December 2025: Swadini Viewpoint gates closed (no public access, except for pre-arranged boat trips)
- 31 December 2025 – 05 January 2026: Waterfall closed to the public, while Swadini Viewpoint will reopen with security personnel stationed at key points
- 06 January 2026: Full public access restored
Visitors planning to explore the region should note that other attractions along the Panorama Route - such as God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, The Three Rondavels, and The Pinnacle - remain open and unaffected by this temporary closure.
The restriction also does not apply to boat tours or to visitors staying at Swadini Forever Resort, which will continue to operate as normal.
The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, one of South Africa’s most scenic natural landmarks, forms part of the renowned Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, offering breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and rich biodiversity - making it a favourite for photographers, hikers, and filmmakers alike.
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