Is the road to Mahlasela Pass paved?
Lesotho, africa
77.9 km
3,278 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the A1 in Lesotho's Butha-Buthe District, headed toward Mahlasela Pass. You're climbing to a whopping 3,278m (10,754ft) above sea level! This 77.9 km (48.4 miles) stretch from Qalo to Letseng-la-Terae is totally paved, though you'll find more potholes than tar the closer you get to Mokhotlong.
The road can get steep, with a max slope of 17%, and you'll be sharing the road with a fair amount of traffic, including some big rigs. Plan ahead though! This is the northern Highlands, so heavy snow can shut things down in winter – icy conditions can be super treacherous. But trust me, the views from the top are totally worth it.
The journey itself is stunning, think frozen rivers, breathtaking vistas, and seriously spectacular views. It’ll take you between 1.5 and 2 hours to drive, but remember, this road is your gateway to Lesotho's high-altitude adventure, including the Afriski Mountain Resort. It's said to be one of the highest road passes in Southern Africa, so get ready for an unforgettable ride.
Road Details
- Country
- Lesotho
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 77.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,278 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in africa
moderateDriving Namibia’s D707 Through the Namtib Desert
🇳🇦 Namibia
Okay, picture this: Namibia's wild south, and you're cruising down the legendary D707. Forget the highway – this is a proper off-road adventure winding through the Namtib Desert! Think endless horizons and mind-blowing scenery around every bend. This "Dream Road," as the locals call it, stretches for 123 kilometers (about 76 miles) from Spes Bona on the C27 all the way to the C13 near Aus. Now, let's be real – this isn't a Sunday drive. We're talking soft sand that wants to swallow your tires, bone-rattling corrugated sections, the odd pothole thrown in for good measure, and stones scattered everywhere. It's mostly straight, but don't get complacent. A 4x4? Non-negotiable. Trust me, you'll need it to conquer this epic, rugged terrain.
hardVanrooyshoogte Pass
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, buckle up for Vanrooyshoogte Pass, a seriously scenic gravel road nestled in the Free State, South Africa! We're talking about hitting a high point of 2,023m (that's 6,637ft!) on the R722 between Memel and Verkykerkop. This isn't your average Sunday drive – you'll encounter some steep climbs (think 1:7 inclines) that'll definitely keep you on your toes. And heads up: winter brings snow, so plan accordingly. Get ready for amazing views and a truly off-the-beaten-path experience!
extremeVan Zyl's Pass
🇳🇦 Namibia
# Van Zyl's Pass: Africa's Most Thrilling 4x4 Challenge Want to experience one of Africa's most jaw-dropping driving adventures? Welcome to Van Zyl's Pass, hidden away in the rugged Kaokoveld region of northwestern Namibia. This legendary 4x4 track plunges roughly 700 meters from the stark, windswept plateau down into the Marienfluss Valley—one of those impossibly remote and stunningly beautiful corners of the continent that'll make your heart skip a beat. Named after the intrepid South African farmer who first carved this route through the wilderness, Van Zyl's Pass has earned its fearsome reputation. You're looking at a white-knuckle descent through switchbacks that climb past 45 degrees, boulder-strewn sections that'll test your nerve, and narrow ledges clinging to cliff faces with nothing but air between you and some serious drops. This isn't a casual Sunday drive. Here's the thing that really sets it apart: this route is essentially one-way. Once you commit to the descent, turning back isn't an option—it's simply too steep and sketchy to climb out in a vehicle. So yeah, you need to be absolutely sure before you drop in. But the payoff? Absolutely worth it. You'll emerge into the spectacular Marienfluss Valley, a vast landscape of golden sand dotted with fiery red mountains. This is home to the semi-nomadic Himba people and their herds, and it feels like you've driven straight off the edge of the world. With only a handful of vehicles making it down each year, you're getting one of the most exclusive and authentic driving experiences on the continent.
extremeIs Volunteershoek Pass unpaved?
🇿🇦 South Africa
Volunteershoek Pass, tucked away in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, is a proper 4x4 adventure! Seriously, don't even think about attempting this one without the right vehicle. At 2,567m (8421 ft) above sea level, it's one of the highest roads you'll find in the country. This gravel pass connects Rhodes and Tiffindell Ski Resort, stretching for 9.64km (6 miles) of pure, unadulterated off-road fun. But a word of warning: the road is narrow with some seriously steep drop-offs! If you see someone coming uphill, give them the right of way – you'll need that momentum! The first 5 km is intense, with gradients hitting up to 1:3. Those cement strips on the steepest part will demand some controlled power! The weather here is WILD. Sunshine can turn into snow in a heartbeat, and temperatures can plummet to -22 degrees in winter. Check conditions and pack accordingly! After conquering the tough climb, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of Halstone Krans and the valley below. The scenery is just amazing. Plus, there's a cute little mountain cabin at the summit – perfect for a quick breather and to soak it all in!