We recently drove through the Outeniqua Pass in January 2007 and the only way to describe it is ‘breathlessly spellbinding’….

This is just one of a number of scenic routes traversing the jagged mountains that separate the Karoo from the lower-lying coastal terrace and the Indian Ocean. The Robinson Pass, built in 1886 by famous road engineer Sir Thomas Bain, climbs beyond Ruiterbos to 860-m summit of the Outeniqua Mountains (leaving you breathless in absolute wonder) before meandering its way down to the coastal town of Mossel Bay.

The Outeniqua Pass (799 m), linking Oudtshoorn to George, descends sharply on the southern side of the Outeniquas, along which there are many spectacular viewing points. Although the railway line follows the same route as the road we never saw a single train.

The Swartberg Pass was used by the early Voortrekkers as a way across the steep Swartberg range into the interior of the Karoo…. the present pass, opened in 1886 offers splendid views (especially at sunset) and many tempting picnic spots. Several kilometres from the summit, a road branches off to Gamkaskloof (Die Hel), a deep valley once inhabited by early pioneers.

About 35 km east of Oudtshoorn is the picturesque village of DeRust… and this little town lies at the entrance to Meiringspoort, which is distinguished by rugged precipices and soaring rock faces and serves as the link between the Klein and Great Karoo. Just about 3 km up the road there is a beautiful 60 m high waterfall.

Mossel Bay is a thriving town rich in heritage and history and home to the Bartolomeu Dias Museum. Five centuries of European exploration and colonial settlement are reflected in the scatter of buildings and relics that comprise Mossel Bay’s museum complex. The museum, which was developed over a number of years, opened in 1989 with a flourish, one year after the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Bartolomeu Dias, first European in modern history to touch South Africa’s shores.

You Will Need:

4×4 Vehicle, Camping equipment and your own beverages. If it is a cross border 4×4 tour then you will also need: passports for all in your party, ID documents, drivers license, insurance consent letter, bank consent letter, third party insurance (for most countries), and if needed – malaria tablets. Please also consult with your General Practitioner and advise them of the country you will be visiting, and follow the necessary malaria precautions and take all necessary medications. Please note that each country has different malaria precautions, some require you have the injections and others that you take the tablets etc.