While the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism (KLCBT), along with the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency and the MEC for the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism develop plans to restore tourist attractions on the Panorama Route, Oupa Pilane, special attaché for KLCBT, has highlighted the deteriorating road to Lone Creek Falls.

“The road to Lone Creek Falls is a disgrace and a barrier to our tourism growth,” Pilane said.

“For 20 years, we’ve been begging for action, and the silence of Mpumalanga’s leadership is unacceptable. This road’s condition not only risks damaging vehicles but also deters tourists, costing our local economy dearly.”

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Visitors have shared negative reviews online, complaining that the poor state of the road makes it extremely difficult to view this and other attractions, such as Bridal Veil Falls and Lisbon Falls.

Lone Creek Falls, a 68m waterfall near Sabie, with its indigenous forest, picnic facilities and scenic trails, is a significant attraction for nature enthusiasts.

“This is a national monument, yet the journey to reach it feels like an obstacle course. Mpumalanga’s tourism potential is being choked by neglect,” Pilane stated.

He urged the Mpumalanga provincial government and the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality to prioritise immediate repairs to the 9km road from Sabie to Lone Creek Falls. He also called for sustainable infrastructure investment to ensure safe and reliable access for visitors, which would, in turn, boost local businesses, tour operators, and job creation in the region.

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Pilane further invited government officials, tourism stakeholders and the public to join the call for accountability.