Where does the A2 Road start and end?
Ethiopia, africa
31.8 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, so picture this: You're in Ethiopia, about to tackle a seriously epic drive! We're talking about Route 2, but specifically the wild section from Alamata to Korem. Alamata is a town nestled on the eastern edge of the Ethiopian Highlands, so you already know you're in for some views.
This isn't just a Sunday drive, though. Get ready for a proper climb! This 31.8 km (almost 20 miles) stretch throws you right into the heart of the mountains. We're talking steep, with gradients hitting up to 12% in places – so make sure your engine's ready to work. And while you're white-knuckling it up those inclines, remember to glance around! The scenery is absolutely stunning as you wind your way up through the eastern edge of the Ethiopian Highlands.
Road Details
- Country
- Ethiopia
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 31.8 km
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in africa
hardMount Abuna Yosef is one of the highest drivable roads in Africa
🇪🇹 Ethiopia
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Mount Abuna Yosef in Ethiopia is calling your name! This beast of a peak tops out at a whopping 4,199m (that's 13,776ft!) making it one of the highest drives you can find in Africa. You’ll find this gem nestled in the Amhara region, right in the northern part of Ethiopia. At the very top, there's even a mountain hut called Agaw Beret Community Guesthouse where you can rest your weary bones. Let me tell you, the road to get there is not for the faint of heart. We're talking a completely unpaved 28 km (17 miles) stretch starting from Lalibela, packed with seriously steep, rocky climbs. A 4x4 isn't just recommended – it's essential. Think large, sharp rocks and super tight turns that demand all your driving skills (and a prayer for your tires!). You'll climb a staggering 1,835m with an average gradient of 6.55%, so prepare for a workout! The views? Absolutely breathtaking. You’ll wind your way through countless villages as you ascend into the Lasta massif of the Ethiopian Highlands. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
moderateA tricky desert road to Fish River Canyon
🇳🇦 Namibia
Okay, picture this: you're in Namibia, ready for an adventure. Head south, almost to the South African border, and you'll stumble upon Fish River Canyon, Africa's grandest canyon! Seriously, this place is HUGE. Think 160 kilometers (100 miles) long, 27 kilometers (17 miles) wide, and a staggering 550 meters (1,800 feet) deep. Some say it's second only to the Grand Canyon. To get there, you'll want a 4x4 because the 57km (35 mile) road from the C10 is pure, unadulterated dirt. You're smack-dab in the Namibian desert here, so prepare for serious remoteness. Cell service? Forget about it. But trust me, the views are worth it! Think dramatic landscapes that'll leave you breathless. It's the perfect road trip for those craving a raw, untamed experience.
moderateWhere is Tizi n’Aguerd n’Zegzaoun?
🇲🇦 Morocco
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! Tizi n’Aguerd n’Zegzaoun is calling your name! This beast of a mountain pass climbs to a whopping 2,639m (8,658ft) in Morocco's Tinghir Province. We're talking seriously high altitude here, folks, among the highest roads in the whole country! You'll find this gem nestled in the Drâa-Tafilalet Region, right in the heart of Morocco. Now, fair warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road to the top is completely unpaved, so a 4x4 is an absolute must. Trust me, you'll be grateful for the extra traction. Plus, near the peak, you can crash at the Albergue Taghrot mountain refuge – perfect for a well-deserved rest. The pass stretches for about 39.7km (24.66 miles), winding its way east to west from Tamtetoucht to Ait Marghad. But before you set off, make sure to get the latest road conditions. This route is as epic as it is challenging, with views that will blow your mind!
extremeTravel guide to the top of Prince Alfred Pass in SA
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, adventurers, buckle up for Prince Alfred's Pass in South Africa! Tucked away in the Western Cape's Langkloof Mountains, this isn't just a road, it's a proper experience. Built way back in the 1860s by the legendary road builder Thomas Bain (and 250 convicts!), this 68 km (42-mile) stretch of the R339 winds its way from Knysna to Uniondale, up and over the mountains. Think dense forest, gorges, and those kinds of forgotten valleys you only stumble upon by accident. Oh, and expect it to take a good two hours, minimum. Now, a word of warning: this isn't a highway. We're talking gravel, potholes, and enough hairpin bends to make your head spin. In places, it shrinks to a single lane – cue the white knuckles! You'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle, ideally a 4x4. And seriously, skip this one after heavy rains. Leave the trailer at home, too. Pro tip: fill up on gas and grab some cash in Uniondale, because you won't find any services or even cell service once you're on the pass. But here's the thing: it's unbelievably beautiful. Imagine insane views, lush forests, and a feeling of pure, unadulterated escape. Just take it slow (max 40km/h, but 25km/h is more like it), watch out for oncoming traffic (descending vehicles yield), and give a little *hoot* on those blind corners. And leave the caravan and quad bikes at home, seriously. Trust me, the scenery is worth every bump and bend!