
Is Cala Pass paved?
South Africa, africa
58 km
1,517 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers, because Cala Pass in South Africa's Eastern Cape province is calling your name! This beauty tops out at 1,517m (that's nearly 5,000 feet!), offering views that'll make your jaw drop.
The road? Smoothly paved as you climb nearly 300 meters over just under 6 km—a decent climb with some sections getting a little steeper.
Spanning just over 28 km, the R410 connects Khowa (formerly Eliot) to Cala, winding through the Chris Hani District Municipality.
Good news is, Cala Pass is generally open year-round. However, be prepared for anything! Winter can bring snow and seriously chilly temps. And those summer electrical storms and mountain mists? They're frequent visitors, so keep an eye on the weather. All said, it's an epic journey through some stunning South African landscapes.
Road Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 58 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,517 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in africa
hardIs the road from Mamfe to Ekok unpaved?
🌍 Cameroon
Okay, picture this: You're cruising from Cameroon into Nigeria, and the route? The legendary Mamfe to Ekok road! Buckle up, because this 65 km (40 miles) stretch is no Sunday drive. Forget smooth asphalt; we're talking pure, unadulterated off-road adventure. Nestled within the lush Ejagham Forest Reserve, this section of the N6 throws everything it's got at you. We're talking completely unpaved conditions that laugh in the face of most vehicles. When the rains hit, even 4x4s wave the white flag. Seriously, during the wet season, it's motorbike-only territory. Heads up, though: besides the challenging terrain, the area has seen conflicts between Cameroon's military and armed separatists. But, if you're feeling intrepid and prepared, this road promises an unforgettable border-crossing experience. Just get ready to earn it!
moderateGreylings Pass
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Greylings Pass in South Africa's Eastern Cape! This high-altitude beauty tops out at 1,953m (6,407ft), and it's a real treat for the senses. We're talking serious views! The R396, a gravel road connecting Dordrecht and Barkly East, is your path to glory. Now, a word of caution: if you're hitting this pass in snow or heavy rain, a 4x4 is your best friend. But in good weather, most vehicles should be able to handle it. Just take your time, enjoy the ride, and soak in that incredible South African scenery!
hardTravel Guide to Joubert's Pass in the Witteberg Mountains
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, buckle up, adventurers, because Joubert's Pass is calling! This epic gravel road climbs to a whopping 2,234 meters (7,329 feet) in the Eastern Cape, practically kissing the Lesotho border. Nestled in the Witteberg Mountains, Joubert's Pass is a 50.9 km (31.62 mile) rollercoaster that begins and ends on the R58. Most vehicles can handle it in good weather, but if the skies open up or the snow starts falling, you'll definitely want a 4x4. Leaving Lady Grey behind, you'll cruise through gorgeous farmland before ascending into the Lammergeier Nature Reserve. Don't let the views distract you too much, though — this road is no joke! With gradients reaching 1:6, it's a steep climb full of rough patches, breathtaking vistas, and high-altitude conditions. Weather can change on a dime, and careful driving is a must! Opened back in 1914 by seven farmers (five of them Jouberts!), the pass boasts a stone monument at the summit, honoring those hard-working Joubert family members and a couple of others. While usually open year-round, snow can shut it down anytime, so check conditions before you go. Joubert's Pass definitely earns its place among South Africa's top gravel road adventures!
hardTizi n’Isakalene
🇲🇦 Morocco
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're anywhere near the Souss-Massa-Drâa region of Morocco and you're craving a serious off-road challenge, Tizi n’Isakalene is calling your name. This mountain pass tops out at a whopping 2,551 meters (8,369 feet) – talk about breathtaking views! But hold on, this isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking rocky, gravelly terrain that will test your skills and your vehicle. Picture this: menacing desert landscapes with steep, rocky climbs. Large, sharp rocks are everywhere, so get ready for some tight maneuvering. Seriously, you'll want high clearance, skid plates, and differential lockers. This is NOT a stock vehicle kind of road. The route can be tricky to follow, too. It’s a complex network of poorly defined roads, so even with a GPS, you'll need your wits about you. And don't forget the Moroccan sun! It gets crazy hot in the summer, so pack plenty of water. Last but not least, this is a journey best shared, so never tackle this trail alone. Trust me, you'll want a buddy (and maybe a mechanic) along for the ride!