The Road to Molteno Pass, South Africa's First Mountain Pass

The Road to Molteno Pass, South Africa's First Mountain Pass

South Africa, africa

Length

110 km

Elevation

1,204 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, so you're up for an adventure? Then Molteno Pass in South Africa needs to be on your radar. Straddling the Western and Northern Cape provinces, this epic route climbs to a cool 1,204 meters (3,950 ft).

You'll find it snaking through the Nuweveld Mountain Range in the southern part of the country, hugging the eastern edge of the Karoo National Park – keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! Word has it this was South Africa's OG mountain pass, dating way back to 1881.

The R381 will be your trusty guide up and over. Expect a mix of gravel and asphalt, so it's a proper off-the-beaten-path experience. Clocking in at 110 km (68.35 miles), this north-south route kicks off in Beaufort West (the Karoo's biggest town) and winds its way up to Loxton. Trust me, the views are worth it!

Where is it?

The Road to Molteno Pass, South Africa's First Mountain Pass is located in South Africa (africa). Coordinates: -28.7539, 22.3947

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Road Details

Country
South Africa
Continent
africa
Length
110 km
Max Elevation
1,204 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
-28.7539, 22.3947

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