Detour #231: The spectacularly scary Sani Pass, South Africa-Lesotho
Photo Mark Potterton
There’s nothing quite like the prospect of imminent death to make you feel alive. On that basis a drive up (or down) the Sani Pass might be the most life-affirming Detour in Southern Africa.
Crossing the Drakensburg Mountains, between land-locked Lesotho and South Africa, it is a truly terrifying drive that’s fraught with danger on every turn. The South African authorities insist that you can only attempt the climb in a suitable all-wheel-drive vehicle, but Lesotho has a more laissez-faire approach and will let pretty much anything descend into its neighbour.
Linking Himeville in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal region with Mokhotlong in Lesotho the Sani Pass climbs rapidly from an already heady 5,000 feet to a very literally breathtaking 9,400 feet through a series of sketchy switchbacks in only six miles. The gravel surface is loose at the best of times, while in the winter months heavy snow and ice render it even more treacherous. Even in ideal conditions the road is only open from 6am to 6pm to avoid the additional dangers of driving in darkness.
Photo Reese Braam
The route was first navigated by a vehicle in 1948 when British explorer Godfrey Edmonds managed to coax his Jeep up the path with the aid of a team of mules. Shortly afterwards a regular supply route was established and brave tourists began tackling the trip in the mid 1950s, while in 1966 the pass even hosted the Roof of Africa Rally.
Despite various attempts to improve the road over the years it remains an extremely challenging drive and you’ll deserve a drink once you make it to the top. Thankfully the highest pub in Africa at the Sani Mountain Lodge will be only too delighted to oblige.