From Underberg: Sani Pass Day Tour – How to Plan Your Adventure

If you’re visiting the Underberg area in South Africa, taking a day tour to Sani Pass is a must-do. This tour takes you on a breathtaking 4×4 journey through the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, up to the Lesotho border, and to the Highest Pub in Southern Africa. Here’s how to plan your Sani Pass Day Tour:

Experience

The tour takes 19.5 hours and includes a 2.5-hour ride to the Maloti-Drakensberg Park for a photo stop, a journey through Sani Pass, lunch at Sani Mountain Lodge, and a 2-hour return trip to Underberg.

Itinerary

The tour starts at the meeting point in Underberg and makes stops at the main stop, the traditional Basotho village, and the Highest Pub in Southern Africa for lunch. There’s also a transfer stop at the border.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this tour include:

– Riding in a 4×4 vehicle through a World Heritage site and up to the Lesotho border with a professional guide
– Visiting a traditional Basotho village and tasting freshly baked Basotho bread while interacting with the family and children
– Visiting the Highest Pub in Southern Africa for lunch and drinks and enjoying the spectacular views across Southern Drakensberg
– Learning about the history of Lesotho, a country with some of the highest points in Africa
– Descending more than 1200m in 8km on the steep switchbacks of the Pass

Full description

The Sani Pass is a historic and scenic route that runs between the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho. It’s a treacherous and steep pass that was originally a bridle path, but it has now become a popular tourist attraction.

The tour starts in Underberg, where you’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle and drive towards the Maloti-Drakensberg Park. This nature reserve is a World Heritage site and is home to some of the most stunning views in the country. You’ll make a brief stop here to take some photos before continuing towards Sani Pass.

The Pass is the main highlight of the tour. The road is narrow and steep, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. The ascent takes you to the Lesotho border, where you’ll make a quick transfer stop before continuing to the Sani Mountain Lodge for lunch.

After lunch, you’ll visit a traditional Basotho village and interact with the local people. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, taste the freshly baked Basotho bread, and learn about their traditions.

The final stop of the tour is at the Highest Pub in Southern Africa, which is located at an altitude of 2874m. Here, you can enjoy lunch and drinks while taking in the spectacular views across Southern Drakensberg.

The descent back to Underberg is just as exciting as the ascent, and you’ll experience the steep switchbacks of the Pass from a different angle. The tour concludes in Underberg, where you’ll be dropped off back at the meeting point.

Book the Tour

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Book the tour here and get ready for a day of stunning views, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Sani Pass

Sani Pass is a mountain pass in the Southern Drakensberg that connects South Africa and Lesotho. It is known for its beautiful scenery and exciting 4×4 adventures. As a popular tourist destination, visitors often have questions about Sani Pass. Here are the most frequently asked questions:

1. What is Sani Pass?

Sani Pass is a mountain pass that links Kwazulu-Natal province in South Africa with Lesotho’s highlands. The pass climbs from an altitude of 1544m to 2876m above sea level. The road is primarily used for 4×4 adventures and has a mixture of gravel, rock, and dirt terrains.

2. How do I get to Sani Pass?

The only way to get to Sani Pass is by car. The nearest airport is King Shaka International Airport in Durban, which is approximately a six-hour drive away. Alternatively, you can fly to Johannesburg, which is an eight-hour drive away.

3. Do I need a 4×4 vehicle to drive up Sani Pass?

Yes, a 4×4 vehicle is required to drive up Sani Pass. Due to the steep inclines and rocky terrain, only experienced 4×4 drivers should attempt to drive up the pass. Visitors can also book a guided tour with an experienced driver if they do not have a suitable vehicle.

4. Can I drive up Sani Pass on my own?

Yes, you can drive up Sani Pass on your own if you have a suitable 4×4 vehicle and experience handling it. However, it is recommended to book a guided tour if you are unfamiliar with the terrain or have never driven a 4×4 vehicle before.

5. Is Sani Pass safe?

Sani Pass can be dangerous to drive, especially during inclement weather conditions or at night. The road is narrow, and vehicles coming from the opposite direction must yield to the other. Visitors should be cautious and considerate when driving on Sani Pass.

6. Do I need a passport to drive up Sani Pass?

Yes, a valid passport is required to cross the border into Lesotho. Visitors are required to present their passports at the South African border post on the way up and at the Lesotho border post on the way down.

7. What are the best times to visit Sani Pass?

The best time to visit Sani Pass is during the summer months between October and March when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. In winter, the pass can be covered in snow, making it difficult to navigate.

8. What activities are available at Sani Pass?

In addition to driving up the pass, visitors can enjoy various activities such as horse riding, hiking, bird watching, and visiting a traditional Basotho village. There are also opportunities to go trout fishing or attend a tea ceremony at the highest pub in Africa.

9. What should I bring when visiting Sani Pass?

When visiting Sani Pass, it is recommended to bring warm clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and sunscreen. Visitors should also bring their passports and any necessary medications, as there are no medical facilities on the pass.

10. Can I stay overnight on Sani Pass?

There are several lodges and guesthouses located on the pass that offer overnight accommodation. Visitors can also camp at the Sani Top Chalets campsite, which offers basic facilities such as hot showers and electricity.

Conclusion

Visiting Sani Pass can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for adventurous travelers. However, it is essential to have the necessary information before embarking on the journey. By knowing the frequently asked questions, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the beautiful Southern Drakensberg region.