Blyderivierspoort Dam sits within the Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga, South Africa, below the escarpment and surrounded by steep terrain. The dam is part of the Blyderivierspoort Nature Reserve and is accessible via a single controlled access point staffed by security personnel. The surrounding topography makes it difficult to reach the water surface at any point other than this designated entry, so paddlers should plan accordingly and expect to pass through the security checkpoint.

The dam falls under a zoning management plan administered by the Department of Water and Sanitation. Kayaking and canoeing are explicitly listed as permitted low-impact activities within the Low Impact Activity Zone, which acts as a buffer between higher-impact recreational areas and conservation zones. Conservation zones, which protect aquatic bird habitat, fish breeding areas, and sediment interception functions, are closed to public access. Paddlers should be aware that demarcation markers and aids to navigation are not yet fully standardized on the dam, and no dedicated incident management system is currently in place, making self-sufficiency and caution particularly important.

The primary launch point used by commercial operators is the jetty at Blyde Dam, located near Swadini Forever Resort (GPS: -24.5334497, 30.788605). This is the most practical reference point for paddlers seeking water access.

The dam offers views of the Blyde River Canyon, described as the largest green canyon in the world, with lush subtropical vegetation. The Kadishi Tufa Waterfall, reported to be the second tallest tufa waterfall in the world, drops into the dam and is a notable feature visible from the water. The Three Rondavels, a well-known geological formation, can also be viewed from the water's surface. Boat trips operate year-round, suggesting the dam is accessible in all seasons, though paddlers should verify current access conditions and permit requirements with the nature reserve and DWS before visiting.