Test your nerve and your handbrake on these gravity-defying routes across the provinces
South Africa’s dramatic escarpments and mountain ranges have created some seriously challenging roads that demand respect, skill, and nerves of steel. From the legendary Sani Pass to lesser-known provincial mountain routes, these steep climbs and descents separate experienced drivers from the merely brave. Here are the country’s most challenging gradients outside the Mother City.
SANI PASS – KWAZULU-NATAL/LESOTHO BORDER
The granddaddy of South African steep roads, Sani Pass climbs from around 1,500m to over 2,800m at the Lesotho border, featuring gradients reaching 1:3 (33%) in places. This 9-kilometre switchback route is the only road link between South Africa and Lesotho via this area, restricted to 4×4 vehicles only. The infamous hairpin bends have earned names like “Suicide Bend,” and the reward at the top is Africa’s highest pub.
VAN REENEN’S PASS – FREE STATE/KWAZULU-NATAL BORDER (N3)
Known as one of South Africa’s most dangerous passes, Van Reenen’s Pass on the N3 features steepest sections around 1:20 and connects Harrismith to Ladysmith. The pass involves a 663-metre vertical climb over 36 kilometres, with heavy truck traffic and unpredictable mountain weather making it particularly treacherous. Despite its reputation as “the most dangerous pass in Africa,” it provides spectacular Drakensberg scenery.
NAUDE’S NEK PASS – EASTERN CAPE
At 32.7km long, this gravel pass zigzags over the Southern Drakensberg with an average gradient of 1:41, but steeper sections measure 1:7. Built by humble farmers (the Naude brothers) in the 1890s rather than engineers, it’s considered the fourth highest altitude pass in South Africa. The pass runs between Rhodes and Maclear and is famous for having a public telephone booth in the middle of nowhere.
OLIVIERSHOEK PASS – KWAZULU-NATAL/FREE STATE BORDER (R74)
This scenic alternative to Van Reenen’s Pass is 13.5km long with a 417m altitude gain, described as one of the most scenic tarred passes in the country. The pass straddles the border between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, beginning its climb just south of the Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve. However, road conditions have deteriorated in recent years with potholes and sections that have collapsed.
DONKEY PASS – FREE STATE
Located about 6km northwest of Mullers Pass on the Free State side of the Drakensberg, this short but steep climb is only 1.5km long but features gradients with a maximum of 1:5. Situated east of Harrismith along the sandstone Platberg mountain, it ranks as the second steepest mountain pass in South Africa and sixth highest. The road traverses a nature reserve and requires permits.
LONG TOM PASS – MPUMALANGA
Named after the Long Tom cannon from the South African War, this pass between Lydenburg and Sabie is 26.2km long with a 671m incline. The pass reaches an elevation of 2,151m above sea level and takes you up the Drakensberg escarpment, offering spectacular views of the Lowveld.
KOUGA-KLEINRIVIER PASS – EASTERN CAPE
This challenging gravel pass features sections with gradients of 1:8, and in wet weather vehicles without 4WD might experience traction issues. At the 6km point, the gradient kicks up severely to 1:5 as the final part of the ascent begins, with sections described as “nothing but steep!”
DRIVING THE STEEP ROADS
Even experienced pass builders achieved remarkable gradients considering the technology of their time. These passes require specific driving techniques: engaging low gears before climbs, maintaining steady throttle, and ensuring your handbrake works perfectly. Many passes are subject to closure during severe weather, with snow and ice transforming manageable routes into death traps.
SEASONAL CHALLENGES
Winter conditions can make these passes particularly treacherous, with some routes becoming slippery when wet and lethal when snow occurs. Van Reenen’s Pass is notably unpredictable with capable winds that can blow light trucks or caravans onto their sides.
THE REWARD FACTOR
Many of these passes are considered “bucket-list” drives for serious pass hunters, offering spectacular mountain scenery and the satisfaction of conquering some of South Africa’s most challenging terrain. The combination of engineering heritage, natural beauty, and driving challenge makes them irresistible to adventure-seeking motorists.
South Africa’s steepest roads represent the ultimate driving challenge, where skill, preparation, and respect for mountain conditions are essential. They’re not just transport routes – they’re adventures that test both driver and machine against some of the continent’s most demanding gradients.
