The Blyde River flows through the third-largest canyon in the world, cutting more than 1,000 metres through quartzite and dolomite mountains along the eastern rim of the Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The canyon stretches approximately 26 kilometres and forms part of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, also known as Motlatse Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve. The river carries notably clear water, a contrast to the sediment-heavy rivers common elsewhere on the subcontinent.

The main paddling section runs approximately 9 kilometres from the Mariepskop campsite as the put-in to Blydepoort Dam as the take-out, and can be completed in three hours to a full day. The character of this run is pool-drop with some long rapids, rated Grade 2 to 4. The canyon walls are narrow relative to the water volume, producing rapids that build progressively in size and intensity before the river opens into the dam. A tamer lower section below Blydepoort Dam is also available through Blyde Adventure Centre for those seeking easier water. A two-day overnight trip can be arranged with commercial operators, with accommodation at a hut along the route.

Access to the main canyon section requires a permit, and paddlers must arrange their trip through one of the licensed commercial operators — Blyde Adventure Centre and Induna Adventures are among those holding concessions. Independent kayakers can paddle without joining a commercial group but must still make arrangements through an operator and be accompanied by an African Paddling Association guide. The Mariepskop campsite at the put-in is managed by Mariepskop Forestry and requires advance booking.

The trip ends on Blydepoort Dam, where commercial groups are met by a motorised craft to avoid the 4-kilometre paddle across the dam. Independent kayakers typically paddle the dam crossing themselves. The dam is home to hippopotamus and crocodiles, including some large individuals, though no attacks have been recorded. Wildlife along the broader reserve includes kudu, duiker, leopard, fish eagles, and African finfoot. The canyon walls provide dramatic scenery throughout the run, and landmarks such as Bourke's Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels are accessible in the surrounding area. One-day and overnight trips are available year-round.