How to Plan Your Underberg Day Tour in Sani Pass

Are you looking for an adventurous day trip from Underberg? Look no further than the Underberg Day Tour in Sani Pass! From hair-raising bends to cascading rivers, and spectacular views, this tour will take you on an incredible journey to one of the highest passes in Africa. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Experience

This tour is a 19.5-hour experience starting in Underberg. You’ll spend 2.5 hours on the road to Maloti-Drakensberg Park, where you’ll make a quick photo stop.

Next up is the highlight of the tour: a ride in a 4×4 vehicle up the steep and winding Sani Pass. Your professional guide will share interesting facts about the history of this remarkable country while you marvel at the stunning scenery. You’ll reach the Lesotho border, where you’ll visit a traditional Basotho village and interact with the family and children while tasting freshly baked Basotho bread.

After the village visit, you’ll be taken to the Highest Pub in Southern Africa for lunch and drinks. You’ll enjoy spectacular views across Southern Drakensberg and learn about the remarkable country that has some of the highest points in Africa.

You’ll return via the steep switchbacks of the Pass and descend more than 1200m in just 8km.

Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect on the tour:

Meeting point:

You’ll meet your guide in Underberg.

Main stop:

The main stop is the Sani Mountain Lodge for lunch.

Other stop:

You’ll have a photo stop at the Maloti-Drakensberg Park.

Transfer stop:

There are no transfer stops on this tour.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

– A ride in a 4×4 vehicle through a World Heritage site and up to the Lesotho border with a professional guide
– Visit a traditional Basotho village and taste freshly baked Basotho bread while you interact with the family and children
– Visit the Highest Pub in Southern Africa for lunch and drinks and enjoy spectacular views across Southern Drakensberg
– Learn about the history of this remarkable country that has some of the highest points in Africa

Full Description

The Sani Pass is regarded by some as having the most spectacular views in South Africa. Originally a bridle path, it has become a ‘bucket list’ experience that is not to be missed.

On the tour, you’ll start your journey from Underberg, a bustling town at the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg. You’ll then drive through the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, offering picturesque photo opportunities. Then, it’s time to take on the Sani Pass with its hair-raising bends and breathtaking views.

As you approach the Lesotho border, you’ll stop at a traditional Basotho village. Here, you’ll interact with the locals, who will happily show you their way of life. You’ll have a chance to taste the freshly baked Basotho bread, and you’ll have some time to explore.

The next stop is the Highest Pub in Southern Africa. Situated at the top of the Sani Pass, the pub offers a relaxing environment to enjoy lunch and drinks while taking in the spectacular views. Afterward, your guide will take you back down the pass, offering more incredible views and experiences.

Booking

To book the Underberg Day Tour in Sani Pass, head to this link and enter your preferred date: book the tour here. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot on this unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

The Underberg Day Tour in Sani Pass is a must-do for anyone looking for adventure and breathtaking scenery. With a professional guide, you’ll learn about the history of the area and interact with locals while experiencing some of the most incredible views South Africa has to offer. Make sure to book your tour in advance and prepare for a day you’ll never forget!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sani Pass

Sani Pass is a world-renowned mountain pass that allows visitors to go from South Africa to Lesotho. It is known for its beautiful scenery, adventurous opportunities, and challenging driving conditions. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Sani Pass.

What is Sani Pass?

Sani Pass is a mountain pass that connects the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal to the landlocked kingdom of Lesotho. It is one of the most challenging mountain passes in the world with steep inclines, hairpin bends, and gravel roads. Sani Pass is located in the Drakensberg mountain range and boasts some of the most breathtaking views in Southern Africa.

Why is Sani Pass so famous?

Sani Pass is famous because of its stunning scenery, challenging driving conditions, and adventurous opportunities. It has become a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the thrill of driving up the steep and winding mountain pass. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, visit the Sani Pass Restaurant, and explore the nearby attractions.

How long does it take to drive up Sani Pass?

The drive up Sani Pass can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the driver’s experience, the weather conditions, and the traffic on the pass. It is recommended that visitors allocate at least half a day for the journey to fully enjoy the experience and take time to explore the region.

Is it safe to drive up Sani Pass?

Driving up Sani Pass can be risky due to the steep inclines, hairpin bends, and loose gravel on the road. Visitors are advised to drive slowly and with caution, particularly in adverse weather conditions. It is recommended that visitors use a 4×4 vehicle with low-range gears to tackle the challenging terrain. It is also advisable to check the weather conditions before planning a trip up Sani Pass.

Do I need a passport to cross the border into Lesotho?

Yes, visitors to Lesotho are required to have a valid passport to enter the country. South African citizens can enter Lesotho using their national ID card, while other foreign visitors will need a valid passport and a visa if required.

What are the attractions at the top of Sani Pass?

At the top of Sani Pass, visitors can enjoy a range of activities and attractions, including:

• The Sani Pass Restaurant and Pub
• The Highest Pub in Africa
• The Sani Top Chalets and Backpackers Lodge
• The Sani Spoors hiking and mountain biking trails
• The Sani Stone Lodge and Basotho Cultural Village

What is the climate like at Sani Pass?

The climate at Sani Pass is typically cold and temperate, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C. Visitors should be prepared for cold weather, even during the summer months, and bring warm clothing and suitable outdoor gear. The area is also subject to frequent rainfall, so visitors should bring waterproof clothing and footwear.

What is the best time of year to visit Sani Pass?

The best time of year to visit Sani Pass is during the dry winter months from May to September. This is when the weather is at its most stable, and the risk of rainfall is minimal. Visitors can also enjoy clear skies and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Is there accommodation available at Sani Pass?

Yes, there are a variety of accommodation options available at Sani Pass, including the Sani Top Chalets and Backpackers Lodge, the Sani Stone Lodge, and the Sani Pass Hotel. Visitors can also camp at the Sani Spoors Campsite or at the nearby Mahlale Camping Site.

What should I bring with me when visiting Sani Pass?

Visitors to Sani Pass should bring warm clothing and suitable outdoor gear, such as hiking boots, rain jackets, and beanies. It is also advisable to bring a first aid kit, a map of the area, snacks and water, and any necessary medication. Visitors should also bring a camera to capture the spectacular views along the way.

Can I hire a guide to take me up Sani Pass?

Yes, there are several tour operators and guides available who can take visitors up Sani Pass. Hiring a guide can be a good option for those who are unfamiliar with the terrain, want to learn more about the history and culture of the region, or want to undertake some more challenging activities, such as rock climbing or abseiling.

Conclusion

Sani Pass is a beautiful and challenging mountain pass that offers visitors the opportunity to experience some of Southern Africa’s most spectacular scenery. While driving up Sani Pass requires caution and careful planning, visitors who are prepared for the journey can enjoy a range of activities and attractions at the top, including the highest pub in Africa, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. By following the advice in this blog post, visitors can make the most of their trip to Sani Pass and enjoy a safe and memorable experience.