Sanipass: A Tranquil Retreat in the Heart of the Drakensberg and Lesotho

"Sani Pass & Lesotho Highlands Discovery"

Itinerary.

This itinerary is designed for a full-day experience, departing from Underberg. South Africa

Tour Highlights:

• Thrilling 4x4 Ascent: Experience the legendary Sani Pass, a dramatic mountain route.
• "Highest Pub in Africa": Enjoy refreshments at the Sani Mountain Lodge.
• Basotho Cultural Immersion: Visit a traditional Basotho village and learn about their way of life.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Capture stunning panoramic views of the Drakensberg and Lesotho highlands.
• Border Crossing Adventure: Experience the unique border crossing between South Africa and Lesotho.

Things to Do and Places to Visit:

• Departure from Underberg:
  • The tour typically starts from a central point in Underberg, such as The Grind Cafe, or from your accommodation. (We will pick you up from your accommodation in Underberg or Himeville.)
• Sani Pass Ascent:
  • Travel in a specialized 4x4 vehicle.
  • Enjoy photo stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.
  • Experience the dramatic switchbacks and steep inclines of the pass.
• South African Border Control:
  • Pass through the South African border post.
• Lesotho Border Control:
  • Cross the border into Lesotho.
• Sani Mountain Lodge:
  • "Enjoy a memorable stop at the iconic 'Highest Pub in Africa,' a must-do for any Sani Pass adventure, and perhaps indulge in a well-deserved drink or lunch.".
  • Enjoy panoramic views from the lodge.
• Basotho Village Visit:
  • Immerse yourself in Basotho culture.
  • Learn about traditional customs and daily life.
  • Potentially enjoy local bread or other treats.
• Return Journey:
  • Descend the Sani Pass, enjoying more stunning views.
  • Return to Underberg.

Detailed Itinerary:

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):
  • 8:00 AM: Depart from Underberg.
  • 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM: Ascend the Sani Pass, with photo stops.
  • 10:30-11:00am: South African border control and Lesotho border control.
  • 11:00 am - 12:00 PM: Arrive at Sani Mountain Lodge, enjoy the views and possible refreshments.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM):
  • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Visit a Basotho village.
  • Visit the "Highest Pub in Africa" for refreshments or lunch.
  • 1:30pm-3:30pm: Decend the Sani Pass.
  • 3:30pm-4:00pm: Arrival back in Underberg.
• Important Notes:
  • A valid passport is essential for this tour.
  • Warm clothing is recommended, as temperatures can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • We supply the 4x4 vehicles that are necessary for navigating the Sani Pass.
  • Visit the "Highest Pub in Africa" for refreshments or lunch.
  • With 25 years of dedicated experience, Africabig5safaris and Tours possesses the unparalleled expertise required to conquer the formidable Sani Pass.

Highlights to Emphasize:

• The sheer thrill of the 4x4 journey up the Sani Pass.
• The cultural experience of visiting a remote Basotho village.
• The unique opportunity to stand at the "roof of Africa."
• The incredible photo opportunities.

MORE RELATED  TOURS: Want to experience more of Southern Africa? We offer longer tours that include Lesotho. See our 6-Day Safari & Cultural Adventure which includes Kruger, Mozambique and Eswatini. Or our 9-Day Adventure which includes Johannesburg, Panorama Route, Kruger Park, Mozambique, Eswatini and St. Lucia."

Sani Pass is a mountain pass located in the West of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa on the road between Himeville, KwaZulu-Natal and Mokhotlong, Lesotho. The pass traverses the Great Escarpment of southern Africa in its highest region, the Drakensberg Mountains, which reach an elevation of over 3,000 meters.

Route of the Sani Pass

The route up Sani Pass starts at 1,544 metres (5,066 ft), and climbs 1,332 m (4,370 ft) to an altitude of 2,876 m (9,436 ft). The steep gravel road has gradients up to 1:3, which can be difficult to drive in bad weather and may be covered with snow and ice in winter. South Africa generally allows only 4x4 vehicles on the road.

The pass lies between the border controls of both countries and is approximately 9 km in length. Caution must be exercised and motorists must be alert while navigating the pass as it has claimed many lives. Occasionally the remains of vehicles that did not succeed in navigating the pass's steep gradients and poor traction surfaces can be seen.

History of the Sani Pass

Prior to being called the Sani Pass, the route was used by the San people and later the Bantu to cross the mountain range. In 1922, the Basutoland government constructed a 2-metre track to connect Mokhotlong with civilisation but was only accessible by pack animals.

In 1949, David Alexander, from Natal, set up a transport business using jeeps to move supplies and people between Himeville and Mokhotlong and return.

In 1956, tourists started adventure drives up the pass. In 1958, the pass was further improved but was still dangerous and accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. When Alexander's business ended, the Mokhotlong Mountain Transport Company continued the route.

In 1966, The Star newspaper sponsored the first Roof of Africa Rally climb over the pass, organised by the Sports Car Club.