Sani Pass in a Day: What to Expect on Your Day Tour from Durban to Lesotho

Embarking on a day trip from Durban to Lesotho via the Sani Pass is an adventure that promises breathtaking scenery, unique cultural experiences, and an unforgettable journey through the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.

As you prepare to explore the highest pass in Africa, here’s what you can expect from our fantastic and memorable day tour to Lesotho from Durban via Sani Pass.

1. Early Start, Remarkable Journey

Your day beings early with a 6am pickup from your bed and breakfast, hotel or backpackers. We will also pick up from areas such as Umhlanga, Toti and other suburbs (just let us know when booking).

After pick up we start on what is a 2 hour drive from Durban to the town of Underberg where you will transfer into specialized 4×4 vehicles.

2. Spectacular Drakensberg Views

The Drive to Underberg is a beautiful drive. Sure it’s 2,5 hours long, but on the way your guide will chat to you about the areas you’ll be driving through as well as about the Zulu people, their history and culture and traditions.

We will also make a stop around the half way mark for a comfort break and some coffee or tea.

We you get closed to the mountains the scenery will definitely become more spectacular with dramatic valleys and mountain tops in the distance.

3. The Ascent up Sani Pass

Once at the Town of Underberg at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains it’s time to jump into the 4×4 vehicles and meet you specialist divers. The road is a dirt one all the way to the top of the pass which, depending on the conditions will be around 2 or 3 hours.

After leaving South Africa you’ll be in “no man’s land” for a while until you arrive at the top of the pass.

On the way up keep a look out for wildlife like Eland, Baboon, Rock Dassie (Hyrax) as well as vultures and other birds.

On the way up your guide will tell you a little of the history of the pass as well as point out flora and fauna along the way. The views as you head up the pass are absolutely amazing!

4. Lesotho: The Kingdom in the Sky

Once at the top it feels like you are entering another world altogether! The starkness of the top makes you feel like you’re on a moon, some 2800 meters about sea level!

After you pass through Lesotho border control (a one room building) and received your stamp, you’ll then be one a beautiful smooth tar road that many will welcome after the dirt 4×4 track and then head onto a local Basotho Village.

5. Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine in Lesotho

I personally am blown away by the strength and hardiness of the local people – how anyone can survive in this harsh landscape is beyond me, but they do and moreover, are happy to share the stories of their lives with you.

You’ll have an opportunity to visit a Basotho village and be invited to enter a hut to learn more about the people and their lives. And it you’re extra lucky, there is even some delicious pot bread on offer!

Finally it’s on to the highest pub in Africa for a much deserved hearty lunch and depending on the weather, perhaps even some Gluhwein.

All too soon the call will come for you to once again clamber into the 4×4 and make the perilous drive back down to Underberg where I or one of my colleagues will be waiting to transfer you back to Durban.

6. Return to Durban

As the day winds down, you’ll make your way back to Durban, carrying memories of the landscapes, cultures, and experiences that make the Sani Pass tour truly exceptional.

The journey back is a time for reflection on the day’s adventures and the natural beauty of Southern Africa.

Sani Pass in a Final Thoughts

A day trip to Sani Pass from Durban is more than just a tour; it’s an expedition into the heart of South Africa’s beauty and cultural depth. It’s an experience that challenges, delights, and inspires, making it a must-do for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or looking for a unique day out, the Sani Pass promises an unforgettable adventure.