Sani Pass

With the dubious reputation of being the driest, coldest and most remote place in the whole of Lesotho, Mokhotlong is situated in the east, in a valley dominated by Thabana Ntlenyana which at a height of 3 482 m, is Southern Africa’s highest ‘beautiful little mountain’. The town originated as a police post in 1905, and for many years was accessible only after several days on horseback from KwaZulu Natal via the Sani Pass, some 56 km to the Southeast, and is now an avid 4×4 Adventurers dream come true. The town grew and became an administrative centre, with goods and materials transported in packs on donkeys and ponies. One district commissioner even had his wife’s beloved piano transported across the Sani Pass by bearers, who then had to repeat the journey when his term of duty was complete. Radio links were established with Maseru shortly after the Second World War and in 1948, an airstrip was built. Roads link it with Butha Buthe to the north, and KwaZulu Natal to the east. Early roads were hazardous, but the road to the Sani Pass now has a good all-weather surface. Mokhotlong means ‘place of the bald ibis’, its name taken from the greenish, red-headed bird that may still be spotted along the trout-filled Mokhotlong River.

The area is excellent for climbing, skiing and walking, and although a two-day hike leads to the Sani Pass, there are no facilities along the way so that even our 4×4 tour needs to be well equipped and prepared when driving to the summit. At the summit of the pass 2 860 m, the Sani Top Chalet offers respite and time to relax. A walk along the willow-clad banks of the river which winds between steep cliffs is a memorable experience.

Itinerary

Day 1

Tour operators will meet with 4×4 Adventures and their party in Himeville at about 3:00 pm to get to know each other, discuss the route and stopover for the night. Directions, maps and specific info will be provided on tour booking.

Day 2

We share early morning breakfast and then drive to the border, embarking on the Sani Pass. Driving the Sani Pass also fondly known by some as “Riding the Dragon” which is a 4×4 challenge that you will soon discover for yourself, (although we are sure is much easier now, then it was way back when ;o). The Sani Pass route goes up the mountain and when we have crossed the border into Lesotho, we make a pitstop at the highest pub to enjoy breathtaking views and scenic ambience. Our drive follows a gravel road through river streams surrounded by natural rugged mountain fauna to the Katze Dam, where we stop to camp for the night and enjoy sharing 4×4 stories around the camp. Dinner is served around a warming camp fire and time for relaxation is enjoyed by all.

Day 3

After breakfast we break-up camp and follow a tar road down the mountain also known as the “Roof of Africa”, where we stop and those of us daring enough can play in the snow. Our route includes a stop at the Katze Dam wall for photo opportunities. This 50 km drive along the pass includes 300 turns allowing for panoramic scenes and breathtaking views along the way… and much to soon we cross the border back into South Africa and set-up camp at Fouriesburg.

Day 4

After enjoying breakfast we break-up camp and drive a short 4×4 trail around Fouriesburg, before starting our journey home.

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.