Journey Beyond the Clouds: The Legendary Sani Pass

Set forth on an unforgettable adventure through the fabled Sani Pass — a route whispered about by travelers and revered by adventurers. This is no ordinary road; it’s a path carved into the very bones of the Drakensberg, where rugged cliffs rise like sentinels and mists curl around their ancient crowns. The gravel track winds ever upward, every turn unveiling a new masterpiece — vast emerald valleys, silver-threaded waterfalls, and the boundless blue of the African sky.

Deep within this mountain kingdom, your next companion awaits — a sure-footed horse, ready to carry you into the heart of the Maloti Mountains. For an hour, ride through landscapes that seem untouched by time, where each ridge and shadow tells a story of wind, stone, and spirit.

At a remote Basotho homestead, pause and share in the warmth of true mountain hospitality. Break bread with locals, tasting loaves still warm from the hearth. Feast on a hearty traditional Basotho lunch, rich with flavor and history. Then, witness a blanket presentation ceremony — a rare and meaningful ritual where woven symbols speak of heritage, pride, and belonging.
Here, nothing is staged. Every handshake, every smile, every moment — authentic, human, real.

Optional Experience: Prefer a toast to adventure? Swap your lunch for a visit to the Highest Pub in Africa — where the views are as intoxicating as the mountain air. Let us know in advance, and we’ll make it happen.

As the day wanes, descend the dramatic switchbacks of Sani Pass once more. Each bend offers one last glance, one last heartbeat of wonder. When you finally return to the world below, you’ll carry something eternal — the spirit of the mountains, etched in memory long after the dust has settled.

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

Curio’s and personal items

Gratuities

ITINERARY

Collection at 6h00 in an upmarket vehicle from your premises in Durban.

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. Meet your horse riding guide.

Settle on your Basotho Pony – even if you are not a rider these horses are easy to ride and your guide will assist.

Ride deep into the mountains and experience the most amazing vistas.

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 and connect with your Durban chauffeur. You will return to Durban around 18h30 to 19h00

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.