Sani Pass Culture & history

With eager anticipation the tour group departs from the starting point and heads up to the highest pass in South Africa, Sani Pass. Travel through Himeville to the World Heritage Site of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, following the Mkomazana River up the scenic Sani Valley to the South African Border Post (border formalities) and the Lesotho Border. After the Lesotho border formalities at the top of Sani Pass, the group makes its way to a fully functional Basotho village to learn more about these humble people. You even get to taste their home-made bread and the local beer. To reflect on this incredible expedition, the tour then moves to the Highest Pub in Africa to enjoy a hearty lunch and cold beer. After lunch the tours makes its way back down Sani Pass, arriving in Underberg at approximately 4:00pm. make our back down the Sani Pass.

Depart Underberg in the morning and take in stunning views of the KwaZulu-Natal landscape as you make your way along the Sani Pass mountain road that connects to Mokhotlong in Lesotho. Stop to get breathtaking views from different locations, and at the South African Border Control and Lesotho Border Control posts. Climb to an altitude of 2,874 meters above sea level to enjoy lunch at the Sani Mountain Lodge – the highest pub in Africa. Continue to a village of the ethnic Basotho people and learn about Lesotho and its people from your experienced mountain guide. Try some traditional beer and homemade bread before you brave the drive back down the Sani Pass. Look for wildlife along the road before you arrive back in Underberg in the afternoon.

Pack your passport and head up into the Mountain Kingdom for the day. At 3,240 meters (10,630 feet) above sea level, Lesotho can get a tad icy so wrap yourself up in an authentic Basotho blanket, which is yours for the day. You'll be taught how the blanket is tied and worn. After pickup from Durban or other available locations in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, make your first stop at Himeville, at the base of the mountains. Here, climb into a rugged 4x4 and meet your specialist Basotho guide who knows the Sani Pass like the back of his hand. Then, embark on the steep climb up the scenic and daunting Sani Pass as you make your way towards Lesotho. Get your passport stamped at the border and head into no-mans-land which connects South Africa to Lesotho. Keep your camera on standby as you don’t want to miss a chance to capture these dramatic vistas. If you’re lucky, you may even score an eland sighting. Elands are believed to be mystical animals that were revered by the San or bushman people of Southern Africa. Once you enter Lesotho, your guide will introduce you to a Basotho village where you may have the opportunity to try traditional bread and beer. Tip: the bread goes wonderfully well with the soup of the day at the pub nearby. Tick another thing off your bucket list by enjoying lunch at Africa’s highest pub (own cost). Later, it'll be time to head back the mountain for your drive back to eThekwini/Durban for drop-off at your accommodation.

Benefit from pickup at a location of your choice in Durban, and then make your way to the historic city of Pietermaritzburg, capital of KwaZulu Natal. Take a short sightseeing tour to see the statue of Mahatma Gandhi by City Hall. Then, venture into the Drakensberg Mountains on the amazing Sani Pass into Lesotho. Travel along the 33-kilometer gravel road that straddles the sheer cliffs in a series of tight zig-zag curves. Marvel at the dramatic landscape as you head from the Sani Pass Hotel, 1,566 meters above sea level. Be amazed as your 4WD Land Rover navigates the narrow road across the border post with Lesotho. Get spectacular views of the rolling hills and endless sky. Reach the top of the Sani Pass, 3,240 meters above sea level and then meet the native Basotho people in a local village to learn about their everyday lives. Make your way back down the mountain to cross the boarder back into South Africa.

The day begins with an early morning collection in a 4×4 vehicle and travels towards the Sani Pass. Enjoy the luxury of having your own private vehicle, which allows for more space and comfort as you travel along the bumpy roads, and the freedom to decide where you’d like to go. As the altitude increases, the road becomes narrower and more treacherous, and all signs of human habitation disappear, leaving you alone in the glory of the majestic mountains. Stop and take photos at your leisure, and enjoy a selection of hot and cold beverages and freshly baked snacks as you absorb the breathtaking views. Nearing the top of the pass at 2876 m, head through border control and towards the desolate Lesotho Highlands. Visit a private homestead and immerse yourself in the local community. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of this small family. Then take a walk to learn the stories of the shepherds within their own stone dwellings. Have lunch and then return via these incredible switchbacks.

From the bustling City of Durban, Tour to Lesotho – “Kingdom in the Sky” The Sani Pass tour into Lesotho from Durban gives you the opportunity to experience an adventure of a lifetime – a comfortable and exciting journey up this famous pass. Starting off in Durban, our tour heads up through the KwaZulu-Natal midlands, to the picturesque town of Underberg, where the real adventure begins. Our luxury Sani Pass tour snakes up the mountain and takes you through a scenic valley along a crystal clear river, making for a breath-taking experience. Your personal Tour Guide will fill you in on all you can learn about the history of the pass and the surrounding area. Feast your eyes on the natural landscape that is dotted with many species of wildflowers, creating splashes of vibrant colors. The road itself is rough which is why only 4×4 vehicles are allowed to traverse it, but because of this and the hairpin bends, you are in for a fun and heart-racing trip. Once you reach the top your senses will be filled beyond your wildest dreams – breathe in the fresh mountain air, drink in the sweeping vistas that are nothing short of majestic, and enjoy this unique African experience in Lesotho – ‘Kingdom of the Sky’.

Immerse yourself in Lesotho's culture and nature on a 4WD trip from Underberg. Explore the Sani Pass and enter the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, experiencing real Basotho life. Enjoy a picnic lunch in nature and choose between a pony trek in the foothills of the mountains or a cultural experience with a homestead visit. Head out of Underberg in your 4WD, travelling beyond the Sani Pass and heading into the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, called Makhotlong. Here, experience real Basotho life as you pass by populated villages. Summit some of the highest peaks south of Kilimanjaro in the comfort of your car. Drive through Black Mountain pass – an incredible sight sitting at 3,240 meters above sea level – it often sees snow in winter and sometimes even in summer. As you descend into the valleys below, start to see the remote villages around Mokhotlong. Stop for a picnic lunch of sandwiches, fruit, cocktail snacks, and warm drinks, including tea and coffee as you take in the surrounding mountain views. Then, choose between a pony trek (horse ride) in the foothills near Mokhotlong with your local guide who knows all about rural life in these mountains or an immersive culture experience, including a short hike into the heart of a local homestead to meet locals and see how they live. Finally, head back to Underberg in your 4WD.

People come from all the world to experience this incredible pass. This gives anyone who goes up the pass lifelong memories. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to experience the dramatic landscapes of the Drakensberg mountains and the rich culture of Lesotho in a single day. The main attractions of this great tour are: 1. Scenic Drive: Travel through the KwaZulu-Natal countryside, passing rolling hills and traditional Zulu homesteads. 2. Underberg: A brief stop in this small town which serves as the gateway to the Southern Drakensberg. 3. Sani Pass: An adventurous 4x4 drive up the steep and winding pass, with breathtaking views and hairpin bends. 4. Lesotho: Enter the "Kingdom in the Sky" and visit a traditional Basotho village. Experience the local culture and interact with the villagers. 5. Highest Pub in Africa: Enjoy a meal or a drink at the Sani Mountain Lodge, which boasts the highest pub in Africa.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lesotho on our immersive day trip that takes you beyond the iconic Sani Pass into the heart of the Mountain Kingdom. Starting from Underberg, your adventure begins with a thrilling ascent of Sani Pass, where you’ll get to enjoy freshly baked bread at a local Basotho home, while gaining insights into their rich culture. Experience breathtaking views from Black Mountain, admire Thabana Ntlenyana, and explore the historic trading post of Mokhotlong. Visit the secluded village of Makhapung, where you’ll meet a traditional healer and witness an authentic ceremonial dance after which we will make our way back to Sani Top for a late lunch at either the Highest Pub in Africa, or a local Basotho restaurant, the choice is yours. This tour offers a captivating blend of adventure, culture, and history, providing an unparalleled glimpse into Basotho life. IMPORTANT TO NOTE Prior reservations are essential in order to have lunch at the Highest Pub in Africa which is why we ask that our guests kindly send us an email or WhatsApp to let us know if you would like us to make a lunch reservation for you. Unfortunately due to the lodges limited capacity entry is granted only to guests that will be eating with them, this also means that the lodge is unable to accommodate guests who wish solely to have a drink, use the WIFI, or restrooms. Kindly note that should you wish to have lunch at The Highest Pub in Africa, Wild 4x4 Tours will make every effort to secure reservations in advance however availability is not always guaranteed. Alternatively we offer our guests the option of either having lunch at a lovely local Basotho restaurant, or feel free to bring along your own snacks and drinks for in the vehicle while on the tour! Of course should you prefer not to have lunch for religious or personal reasons that is absolutely fine too. While we assist in making the necessary lunch reservations for our guests it is also important to note that the tour does not include lunch, so any food or drinks ordered will be for your own account.

Experience an exhilarating adventure to the majestic Kingdom of Lesotho, high in the Southern Drakensberg Mountains. Departing from Underberg, you’ll ascend the iconic Sani Pass in a luxury 4×4, climbing from 1,544 to 2,876 meters. Marvel at breathtaking views along the winding gravel road, stopping at two border posts as well as various scenic view points for photo opportunities. With expert guidance throughout, this journey offers rich insights into Lesotho’s history, fauna, and flora. Enjoy some shopping at the local curio shops before immersing yourself in the local culture with a visit to a Basotho home. Savor freshly baked bread and hear captivating stories about the vibrant traditions of the Basotho people. Indulge in a cold beer and a hearty lunch at the Highest Pub in Africa or an authentic local restaurant, the choice is yours. Here you will also get to experience some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Drakensberg. As you descend the pass, we have no doubt you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of this extraordinary adventure in Africa’s “Kingdom in the Sky.” IMPORTANT TO NOTE Prior reservations are essential in order to have lunch at the Highest Pub in Africa which is why we ask that our guests kindly send us an email or WhatsApp to let us know if you would like us to make a lunch reservation for you. Unfortunately due to the lodges limited capacity entry is granted only to guests that will be eating with them, this also means that the lodge is unable to accommodate guests who wish solely to have a drink, use the WIFI, or restrooms. Kindly note that should you wish to have lunch at The Highest Pub in Africa, Wild 4x4 Tours will make every effort to secure reservations in advance however availability is not always guaranteed. Alternatively we offer our guests the option of either having lunch at a lovely local Basotho restaurant, or feel free to bring along your own snacks and drinks for in the vehicle while on the tour! Of course should you prefer not to have lunch for religious or personal reasons that is absolutely fine too. While we assist in making the necessary lunch reservations for our guests it is also important to note that the tour does not include lunch, so any food or drinks ordered will be for your own account.