
Otto Du Plessis Pass is one of the most beautiful mountain roads in the Eastern Cape
South Africa, africa
50 km
2,115 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for the Otto Du Plessis Pass! Located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, this beauty climbs to a cool 2,115m (6,938ft). Think classic gravel road vibes – we're talking intrigue, a bit of danger, and views that'll make your jaw drop.
Keep an eye out for the 2-meter stone obelisk at the summit, a memorial dating all the way back to 1959. The pass is named for the politician Otto du Plessis.
The entire 50 km (31 miles) route, stretching from Clifford to Deochandorris, is unpaved. A normal car can handle it if the weather’s on your side, but a 4x4 with some ground clearance is your best bet when the rains hit and things get muddy.
The summit views are seriously panoramic, and the descent winds you through gorges, forests, and pure wilderness. On a clear day, you can soak up views for miles over the Tsomo Valley and the Drakensberg escarpment. Rumor has it you can even spot the Indian Ocean way off in the distance!
Where is it?
Otto Du Plessis Pass is one of the most beautiful mountain roads in the Eastern Cape is located in South Africa (africa). Coordinates: -31.8182, 22.2472
Road Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 50 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,115 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -31.8182, 22.2472
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