Where is Lichens Pass?
South Africa, africa
47.8 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Free State of South Africa, right? Specifically, in the eastern part, near the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. You're heading up Lichens Pass, a high-altitude beauty that climbs to a serious elevation.
So, why the name "Lichens"? Well, I hear it's named for the lichen that grows there. Keep your eyes peeled!
The road stretches for about 47.8 km (29.70 miles), running roughly west-east from Clarens to Phuthaditjhaba. It’s paved and features some lovely banked corners – perfect for those wind-in-your-hair moments. Watch out though, a few of them are pretty sharp, and there are some steep sections. This area's also known for its dramatic weather changes, so be prepared for potential low visibility. This drive delivers incredible views, but stay alert and drive safely!
Road Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 47.8 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in africa
hardDriving the unpaved C26 Road from Windhoek to the coast
🇳🇦 Namibia
Okay, picture this: you're in Namibia, craving adventure, and the C26 is calling your name! This epic road trip starts near Windhoek, the capital, and winds its way towards the coast through the Khomas Region. At first, you'll be cruising on smooth pavement, but don't get too comfortable. The road quickly transforms into a well-maintained dirt track. It's mostly pretty smooth sailing (at a leisurely pace, of course), but be prepared for some rough patches and seriously scenic hills and mountain passes. Speaking of mountains, you'll conquer the Gamsberg Pass at a whopping 1,867m (6,125ft) and push even higher to 2,050m (6,725ft) at Kupferberg Pass. While you probably don't *need* a full-on 4x4, a vehicle with decent ground clearance is definitely your friend here. This unforgettable 190km (118-mile) stretch runs from just south of Windhoek to the C14 road near Oase. Keep an eye out for those crazy Namibian winds! Also, a heads up: this route is remote, so while there are a few rest camps, they're not exactly roadside stops. Pack accordingly and get ready for some seriously breathtaking views.
moderateWhere is Ongeluks Nek Pass?
🇿🇦 South Africa
Ongeluks Nek Pass sits way up high, straddling the border between South Africa and Lesotho at a lofty 2,541 meters (8,336 feet)! Word to the wise: don't even *think* about tackling this route if the weather's looking dicey. You'll find this beauty snaking through the Quthing District of Lesotho and the northern reaches of South Africa's Eastern Cape Province, right near the Ongeluksnek Nature Reserve. Its name roughly translates to "Misfortune's Neck," a moniker earned way back in the day during a Griqua trek. Heads up: this isn't your typical Sunday drive. The entire 28 km (18 miles) from Letlapeng (South Africa) to Makuaes (Lesotho) is unpaved, seriously rocky, and can get super rutted and muddy. We're talking off-road vehicles *only*, preferably with low range and some serious ground clearance. Trust me, you'll need it. Before you even consider attempting this pass, scout ahead *on foot*. Seriously. The road can degrade quickly, and you'll want to know what you're getting into. If you’re feeling brave enough to give it a go, make sure you have someone with experience driving it. With an average gradient of 1:9, diff locks and high ground clearance can be game changers. As you climb higher, the road gets rougher and rockier. Oh, and pro tip: bring at least two vehicles, just in case. Being in the Drakensberg mountains means the track is often muddy and slick. Expect high winds and electrical storms up top in the summer, and snow in the winter. Despite the challenges, the scenery is incredible! Just be prepared for a wild ride.
hardDriving the sandy road to Remhoogte Pass
🇳🇦 Namibia
Okay, adventurers, listen up! You NEED to add Remhoogte Pass in Namibia to your bucket list. This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking about one of the highest roads in the whole country, topping out at 1,556 meters (that's 5,104 feet for you imperial system folks). Found smack-dab in central Namibia, straddling the Hardap and Khomas regions, this 47.6 km (29.57 miles) stretch from Abbabis to Naoseros is pure off-road bliss. Forget smooth asphalt; the D1261 is all about that sandy, unpaved life. Seriously, leave the sedan at home and bring your 4x4 – you'll thank me later, especially when you hit those steep sections with a max gradient of 9%! Fair warning: this route isn't for the faint of heart. But if you're up for a challenge and craving some seriously stunning scenery, Remhoogte Pass will deliver views you won’t soon forget.
moderateTizi n’Tizza
🇲🇦 Morocco
Okay, so you're heading to Morocco? Awesome! You HAVE to check out Tizi n’Tizza. This high mountain pass sits way up at 1,777 meters (that's 5,830 feet!). You'll find it in the Guercif Province, in the Oriental region. The road, known as P5427, is paved, which is good news. But, heads up, it's pretty narrow. Think tons of twists and turns that’ll keep you on your toes. Even if you're a seasoned driver, this one will keep you focused. Seriously, it's up, down, right, left, non-stop! I wouldn't recommend tackling it at night or if the weather's dodgy, especially if it's your first time. The views, though? Totally worth it!