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On top of the world
Off-road adventures at Sani Pass
The trademark zigzag trail of the Sani Pass.
© Chris Marais
Did you know?
Sani Pass was originally a pack-animals trail and was only opened to traffic in 1955.
Sani Pass is a name synonymous with adventure; both because of its remote locale and due to the white-knuckle rides it takes to get to the top. Peaking at 2 873m above sea level, the pass is also aptly referred to as the roof of Africa.
The pass is a popular mountain biking destination and hosts the annual Sani Pass Transfrontier Mountain Bike Epic in December. Providing two routes, of 42km and 26km respectively, the race sees biking enthusiasts charging up and back down the pass in the pursuit of glory.
Quad biking is another awesome, if slightly less demanding, way to enjoy the pass. Guided day and overnight trails up the pass and into Lesotho are available, with most offering lunch and refreshments at Sani Top Chalet, home of the highest pub in Africa.
Combination packages featuring quad biking and 4x4 driving are also available. Sani Pass is only accessible by 4x4 and makes for an exhilarating ride. Longer overnight 4x4 trails are also offered, including trips up some of Lesotho's highest peaks.
Sani Pass can also be accessed with off-road motorbikes and combined with motorcycle tours of the southern Drakensberg or Lesotho. Lesotho hosts the annual Baboons' Roof of Africa motorcycle event every November, ranked as the most gruelling endurance event of its kind in southern Africa.
Endurance of a different kind is called upon if you decide to run, or walk, up Sani Pass as part of the suitably named Sani Stagger marathon, which takes place annually in November.
Be aware that before you reach the summit of Sani Pass, there is an international border post and passports are required to access the top. Also, the weather can change very quickly and dramatically in the mountains, so come prepared.
On the topic of weather, the heavy snowfalls that blanket the escarpment in winter offer an added attraction in the form of skiing. A short drive into Lesotho from the Free State side will enable you to access the ski resort.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Drakensberg Tourism Information
Tel: +27 (0)36 488 1207/1273
Email: cdta@futurenet.co.za
Web: www.drakensberg.kzn.org.za
Sani Top Chalet
Tel: +27 (0)78 634 7496/ (0)73 541 8620
How to get here
Fly directly from any of South Africa’s major cities to Durban. From Durban take the N3 to Howick, then follow the signs to Underberg. The Sani Pass starts just outside Underberg.
Around the area
uKhahlamba-Drakensberg National Park; the quaint country towns of Underberg and Himeville.
Get around
If you decide to drive, remember that you will need a 4x4 (available for hire at all major car rental companies). You can also get around by mountain bike, quad-bike, off-road motorcycle or on foot.
What to pack
In summer bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat and comfortable hiking boots. In winter bring plenty of warm clothing. Even if the weather seems fine, it can change in an instant.
Where to stay
Sani Top Chalet at the top of Sani Pass or at the Sani Pass Hotel down below.
What to eat
Authentic South African country cooking at the Sani Top Chalet pub, the highest pub in Africa.
What's happening
The Sani Stagger marathon in November, the Sani Pass Transfrontier Mountain Bike Epic in December.
Best buys
Look out for a traditional Basotho hat, a conical straw creation with three interlocking rings on top.