SOUTH AFRICA’S PASSES: NATURE’S ROADS

Amari Marè

@amari.mare

 

This holiday season, many people are travelling to visit family and friends. Long, straight roads can become monotonous, especially on extended journeys. To add excitement to your travels, consider taking one of South Africa’s famous mountain passes. Each pass is unique, offering breathtaking scenery, history, and memorable experiences for every type of traveller.

 

Van Reenen’s Pass

 

 

Van Reenen’s Pass is a scenic route through the Drakensberg Mountains, located between Ladysmith and Harrismith along the N3 between Durban and Johannesburg. The pass is popular among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts who enjoy winding roads and challenging terrain.

 

Highlight:

 

The Drakensberg Mountains offer picnic areas with sweeping views stretching for miles. Travellers can stretch their legs at Van Reenen and visit the “Littlest Church in the World,” which can accommodate only eight people.

 

History:

 

Situated between Ladysmith and Harrismith, the pass links two towns rich in history. Ladysmith is known for its Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902) battlefields, while Harrismith offers hiking trails and access to the Sterkfontein Dam, a popular spot for fly fishing.

 

Van Reenen’s Pass is ideal for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike. However, caution is advised, as winding roads and speeding drivers can increase the risk of accidents.

 

Sani Pass

 

 

Sani Pass connects the town of Underberg to the highlands of Lesotho and is a must-visit for 4×4 enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers. Lesotho on Track describes the pass as leading past waterfalls through a remote valley to the highest pub in Africa. Aptly named the “Roof of Africa,” the pass climbs approximately 1 000 metres over just eight kilometres.

 

The gravel road features numerous hairpin bends, and rapidly changing weather conditions—such as rain and strong winds—can make the route particularly challenging.

 

Highlight:

 

After completing the demanding drive, travellers can enjoy a drink at the highest pub in Africa while taking in the breathtaking views. During winter, snowfall is common, offering a rare South African snow experience. The pass also ends in Lesotho, making it an opportunity to visit another country.

 

History:

 

Sani Pass served as a trading route in the early 20th century, with donkeys and mules transporting goods. The route was opened to 4×4 vehicles in the 1950s, and in recent years, certain sections have been upgraded with paved roads.

 

Swartberg Pass

 

 

Located in the Western Cape, Swartberg Pass is surrounded by proteas, ericas, restios, and a variety of fauna and flora. The pass, along with its sister route Montagu Pass, is a national monument. Most of the route falls within the Swartberg Nature Reserve, offering hiking trails, picnic spots, birdwatching, swimming areas, and 4×4 routes.

 

Highlight:

 

Several sections of the pass are named, preserving pieces of history. The dramatic rock formations and striking colours make this pass a remarkable visual experience.

 

History:

 

According to the Swartberg Circle Route, Thomas Bain constructed the pass between 1883 and 1886. Bain used the natural ridges of the foothills to assist with altitude gain and applied innovative engineering techniques developed throughout his road-building career.

 

Magoebaskloof Pass

 

 

Magoebaskloof Pass, located in Limpopo along the R71 from Tzaneen, winds past avocado orchards and tea plantations, with occasional “beware of hippo” signs along the Politsi River. Getaway describes this misty pass as famous for its rollercoaster-like hairpins and S-bends.

 

Highlight:

 

The area boasts sparkling lakes and outdoor activities such as fly fishing, mountain biking, hiking, and birdwatching. Magoebaskloof is also known for its vibrant spring gardens and rich autumn colours. Award-winning brewery Zwakala invites visitors to experience local craft beer and hospitality.

 

History:

 

Following the Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902), a route was built through Magoebaskloof near the old Woodbush bridle path. In 1915, construction was altered after workers refused to cut down what they referred to as “God’s trees.” Chief Makgoba, the Tlou leader defeated in 1895, is believed to be buried nearby, with local legend claiming his spirit still haunts the surrounding mountains.

 

Long Tom Pass

 

 

Situated in Mpumalanga between Lydenburg and Sabie, Long Tom Pass climbs the Drakensberg Mountains and marks the starting point of the Panorama Route. Stray Along the Way provides detailed information on the drive and accommodation options in the area.

 

Highlight:

 

The Long Tom Toboggan offers an exhilarating ride on a stainless-steel track stretching 1.7 kilometres through forested terrain, reaching speeds of up to 45 km/h. After the ride, visitors can relax at the Sabie Brewing Company.

 

History:

 

The pass was named after the Long Tom cannon, a weapon used during the Second Boer War (1899–1902).

 

Schoemanskloof Pass

 

 

Often overlooked, Schoemanskloof Pass is a tranquil destination worth exploring.

 

Highlight:

 

According to Wolwekrans, the region is a birdwatcher’s paradise, protecting the last breeding populations of grey and red-winged francolins, as well as the Gurney’s sugarbird. The Joubert & Sons citrus farm is a popular stop for both locals and tourists.

 

History:

 

The area is named for two reasons: it lies between mountainous terrain before descending into Mpumalanga’s lowlands, and its cool climate and scenic beauty resemble the Scottish Highlands.

 

Whether your holiday takes you across the street or across the country, consider adding these passes to your bucket list. Travel safely, enjoy the journey, and take time to recharge for the year ahead and its challenges.

 

Edited by Simoné de Witt