Journey Through the Legendary Sani Pass into the Heart of Lesotho

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you traverse the breathtaking Sani Pass, a winding mountain road that climbs dramatically through rugged cliffs and misty peaks. Every twist and turn reveals sweeping panoramas — vast valleys, tumbling waterfalls, and the endless sky above the Drakensberg.

Cross the border into Lesotho, the enchanting Kingdom in the Sky. Rich in heritage and alive with tradition, Lesotho is home to the Basotho people — warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to their land.

Travel deep into the mountains to a private rural village, where life unfolds much as it has for generations. Meet the locals, watch daily routines of farming and herding, and experience the genuine rhythm of mountain life. Visit a private homestead that offers shelter and sustenance to shepherds. Taste freshly baked homemade bread, enjoy a sumptuous traditional Basotho lunch, and take part in a blanket presentation, learning the meaning behind these cherished symbols of Basotho culture.
These visits are completely authentic — real homes, real people, real life. Nothing is staged, every smile is sincere.

Please note that if you want to go to the Highest Pub we can organise this instead of the traditonal lunch but you need to inform us well in advance.

Finally, descend the dramatic switchbacks of Sani Pass, each curve revealing another unforgettable view as you return from a journey that stirs the soul and lingers in memory

INCLUSIONS & EXTRAS PROVIDED ON A PRIVATE TOUR

Private Vehicle offering extra space and Personal guide.
Luxury Seating and Air Conditioning.
Earlier departure avoids tour traffic on the Sani Pass
Hot towels
Blankets and hot bags when cold.
Warm and cold beverages and snacks
Private Village Guide
Private visit to village, deep in the Lesotho Mountain Highlands.

EXCLUSIONS

Refreshments at the Highest Pub

Curio’s and personal items

Gratuities

ITINERARY

Collection at 8h00 in a 4×4 vehicle.

Traverse the breath taking Sani Pass.

This is a private tour so the day belongs to you as we meader through this national heritage site.

Enjoy tea/coffee, juice and freshly baked snacks at a view point on the Pass & stop at leisure to take photo’s on the Pass.

Mid-morning you will cross the Lesotho border control assisted by your personal guide.

Travel deep into the Highlands of Lesotho. Visit a small and exclusive village.

Observe the Basotho culture and meet the traditional healer

Enjoy an amazing traditional lunch in a Basotho hut made by the owner.

You may visit the Highest Pub if we book lunch there instead of the Traditional Lunch but please advise us soonest.

By mid-afternoon head back down the steep switch-backs of the Sani Pass.

Passports & Visas

Valid Passports are essential. No exceptions are made.

Visas may be required for some nationalities and can be obtained online.

Please check http://www.evisalesotho.com/

What to Bring

Bring warm clothing in case of cold and wear walking shoes.

Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and camera’s.

Small change for purchase of curio’s.

We provide all other refreshments

How long is the tour?

This tour is usually 8 to 9 hours.

We leave by 7h30 to ensure that there are few other tours en route.

However as this is a private tour you can choose where you would like to spend time or if you wish to return earlier.

The border control closes by 18h00 which is the latest we can return.

What happens if the weather is bad?

When it is raining, misty or snowing we still operate the tour as most times you rise above the clouds as you go up the Pass.

The only times when the tour will be cancelled is if the Pass has been closed by the border control due to being blocked by snow.

Please speak to us about cancelling if you are not happy.

What is the altitude?

The Sani Pass is at an elevation of 2873 meters above sea level.

Black Mountain Pass which is towards the village you will visit is at an elevation of 3278 meters above sea level.

Is the Pass going to be tarred?

Yes. However according to the engineers involved this will only be in about 5 years.

There are a few road works but this is long before the South African border post.

Can I drive on my own?

Some do attempt to do this but unless you are very experienced it is not advisable. Inclement weather conditions are dangerous if you do not know the road and can happen at any time even if it looks good in the morning.

You will not get to see Basotho culture and will not be able to experience this tour as the village is private. A guided tour and your views will be restricted if you do not have the freedom to watch as you pass.

You can however ‘Hire a Guide’ provided you have the correct vehicle the guide will accompany you in your vehicle to ensure that you get to the top and will take you to the village for the activities at a small cost.

Rental vehicles are not suggested as rental companies will charge for damage in the area even with full cover insurance.

You can also hire a ‘Buddy Tour’ which means you follow one of our existing tours in your own vehicle. This is not suggested for those without experience.

You dictate your preferences in terms of time.

Our only restrictions are the South African border control closes at 18h00.

and therefore we need to be back in South Africa prior to this time.

Sani Pass Longer Private Day Tour

Lesotho is rich in culture and traditions steeped in the past.

Visit a local homestead, learn about Lesotho traditions and taste homemade bread and listen to a blanket presentation,

Travel deep into the mountains to a small village.

Spend the next while in a small local village observing the traditions of the Basotho people.

Enjoy an amazing traditional lunch in a Basotho hut then visit the Highest Pub in Africa.