Top 20 Mountain Passes in South Africa

Amazing kloof and incredible views

Altitude 1575m an amazing view over the Swartberg Pass

Well-marked circular hiking trail. Sturdy shoes are helpful.

Naudes Nek Pass, nestled in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, is a thrilling pass for backpackers racing through the picturesque Drakensberg Mountains. Named after the intrepid explorer and geologist, John Naudé, this pass sits at an elevation of approximately 2,620 meters (8,596 feet) above sea level. In the early 19th century, a resilient adventurer named Samuel Thornton embarked on a daring journey to explore the uncharted territories of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. Samuel, an English trader with a passion for discovery, heard tales of untapped riches and new opportunities beyond the rugged Drakensberg Mountains. Equipped with little more than a sturdy backpack and a determination to forge new paths, Samuel set his sights on the challenging route through Naudes Nek Pass. The pass, shrouded in mystery and surrounded by breathtaking peaks, beckoned him as both an obstacle and an opportunity. As Samuel navigated the winding trails of the pass, he faced treacherous weather, unpredictable terrain, and the constant risk of encountering unfamiliar wildlife. Yet, fueled by the spirit of adventure and the promise of undiscovered lands, he pressed on. Along the way, Samuel encountered local communities nestled in the mountain valleys. He bartered with them, exchanging goods from distant lands for essential supplies. Samuel's charismatic demeanor and genuine curiosity earned him the trust of the indigenous people, who shared stories of their traditions and the challenges of life in the mountains. Eventually, after days of challenging travel, Samuel emerged on the other side of Naudes Nek Pass, greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the Eastern Cape's vast landscapes. Undeterred by the hardships, he continued his journey, establishing trade routes and leaving a legacy for future settlers and traders who would follow in his footsteps. Samuel Thornton's courageous expedition through Naudes Nek Pass became a legendary tale among early settlers and traders, inspiring others to explore the beauty and potential of the untamed Eastern Cape.

The story of the Van der Stel Pass began in the 17th century when Simon van der Stel, the visionary governor of the Cape Colony, sought to expand the reach of the settlement into the interior. Recognizing the strategic importance of connecting Franschhoek to the rest of the colony, van der Stel commissioned the construction of a pass through the formidable mountains that stood as guardians of the region. The pass, a testament to human determination, was carved through the rocky terrain by the hands of laborers and artisans. It was a challenging endeavor, and the pass took its time to emerge, like a hidden treasure slowly revealing itself to those who dared to venture. As the pass took shape, it became more than just a means of traversing the mountains. It became a lifeline for the settlers, a conduit through which commerce and culture flowed. The road facilitated the transportation of goods, the exchange of ideas, and the expansion of the Cape Colony into the fertile valleys beyond. Generations passed, and the Van der Stel Pass witnessed the ebb and flow of history. It bore witness to the struggles and triumphs of the people who traversed its twists and turns. Horse-drawn carriages gave way to motor vehicles, yet the essence of the pass remained unchanged – a link between the past and the present. The significance of the Van der Stel Pass extended beyond its practical use. It became a symbol of resilience, a tangible reminder of the pioneers who carved out a path where none existed before. Travelers crossing the pass could almost hear the echoes of the past, whispers of conversations held by traders and explorers who once tread the same ground. In modern times, the Van der Stel Pass is more than just a historical relic; it is a destination in itself. Tourists and locals alike wind their way through its curves, not merely to reach their destination but to experience a journey through time. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush vineyards, and the charming town of Franschhoek, creating an atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and serene. As the wheels of bicycles roll over the gravel remnants of the past, the Van der Stel Pass stands as a bridge between history and the present. It invites all who traverse its length to become a part of its narrative, to feel the pulse of a time when a governor's vision carved a path through the mountains, leaving behind a legacy etched in every stone and curve.

Climbing this pass by MTB is a difficult challenge. The road in the lower area is partly being optimized. Further up there are some larger stones and boulders to overcome. Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with a beautiful view

I hitchhiked down in 2019, no signs of tar/paving in the steepest part.

A beautiful gorge through the folded mountains of the Karoo. The road twist and turns for nearly 20km through orange sandstone cliffs, folded and shaped by the forces of nature over the years. Be cautious of oncoming traffic as you will dropping down at high speed on a road with many blind corners.