What are the highest roads in South Africa?

What are the highest roads in South Africa?

South Africa, africa

Length

N/A

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

# South Africa's Mountain Passes: A Driver's Dream

South Africa is seriously one of the most geographically stunning countries you'll ever drive through. The landscape is basically split between a massive, elevated inland plateau and a coastline that drops dramatically down via the Great Escarpment. It's geology at its most dramatic – and it makes for some incredible driving.

The crown jewel? The Drakensberg Mountains. These ancient, breathtaking peaks sit right at the edge of that escarpment, creating some of the most visually stunning mountainous terrain anywhere on the continent.

All this crazy geography has spawned an amazing network of high mountain passes that'll get your adrenaline pumping. These routes tackle some serious elevation and steep grades as they cross the escarpment face, giving you the kind of challenging driving that comes with absolutely mind-blowing views. If you're driving here during the Southern Hemisphere winter, you might even catch snow on these passes – which is pretty surreal given where you are on the map.

Ready to explore some of the world's most spectacular roads? Grab your map and start planning. Whether you're after heart-pounding curves or jaw-dropping vistas, South Africa's mountain passes deliver both in spades.

Where is it?

What are the highest roads in South Africa? is located in South Africa (africa). Coordinates: -30.9168, 22.5000

Share this road

Road Details

Country
South Africa
Continent
africa
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
-30.9168, 22.5000

Related Roads in africa

Tizi n'Amarskineextreme

Tizi n'Amarskine

πŸ‡²πŸ‡¦ Morocco

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Tizi-n-Amarskine Pass in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains is calling your name! Get ready to climb to 1,985 meters (that's 6,512 feet!) above sea level for views that will blow your mind. Word of warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road is gravel, super narrow, and seriously steep. Think hairpin turns for days as you slowly ascend. And did I mention the HUGE drops beside the road? Yeah, no guardrails here, folks. This baby is strictly 4x4 territory. Seriously, though, check the weather before you go. This area can get hit with avalanches, heavy snow, landslides, and crazy high winds. But if you're prepared, the views are absolutely worth it. Picture this: endless vistas of the High Atlas, rugged terrain, and a feeling like you're on top of the world. Just be careful out there!

Traversing the defiant Tongobory Bridgemoderate

Traversing the defiant Tongobory Bridge

πŸ‡²πŸ‡¬ Madagascar

Okay, picture this: southwest Madagascar, Atsimo-Andrefana Region. You're cruising along Route 10, connecting Ambovombe-Androy and Andranovory, when BAM! You hit the Tongobory Bridge. Seriously, this isn't just any bridge; it's a 150-meter stretch of awesome soaring over the Onilahy River right in Tongobory town. It's up there with the most spectacular bridges, a real feast for the eyes!

Driving to Tanzania's Majestic Ngorongoro Crater: A Road Adventurer's Guidemoderate

Driving to Tanzania's Majestic Ngorongoro Crater: A Road Adventurer's Guide

πŸ‡ΉπŸ‡Ώ Tanzania

Get ready for an epic African adventure! The road to Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater National Park is as unforgettable as the destination itself. Think stunning scenery, local villages, and the thrill of the open road. Most journeys kick off in Arusha, where you'll cruise for about 80 kilometers (50 miles) on smooth tarmac before hitting the gravel. The next 100 kilometers (62 miles) are a bit more rugged, but trust me, the views of the Tanzanian countryside are worth it. You might even pass through charming towns like Mto-wa-Mbu on your way to the Ngorongoro Lodware Gate. Headed from the Serengeti? There's a decent 152-kilometer (95-mile) gravel road connecting the two parks. You can fuel up along the way, but be prepared for bumpy patches. Now, about the Crater itself: only 4x4 vehicles are allowed down into the "Garden of Eden" – and you'll quickly see why! You'll wind down a series of zigzagging roads with seriously tight hairpin turns. Hold on tight! The crater floor is a wildlife paradise: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo roam free. Your guide will take you around, highlighting spots like Lake Magadi and Lerai Forest. Ngorongoro Crater isn't just a safari; it's an adventure from start to finish. The mix of dramatic landscapes and incredible wildlife makes it a must-do for any traveler looking for something truly special.

Greylings Passmoderate

Greylings Pass

πŸ‡ΏπŸ‡¦ 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!