Why is it called Lootsberg Pass?
South Africa, africa
106 km
1,781 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for the Lootsberg Pass! This gem sits pretty high up in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, clocking in at a cool 1,781m (5,843ft). Word is, it's the highest pass in the Great Karoo!
Ever wonder about the name? Legend has it that it's named after Hendrik Loots, who had a bit of a mishap back in the day when his carriage took a tumble on the original route. Ouch! That old route was actually carved out way back in 1858 by a chap named Andrew Geddes Bain.
Now, the good news: you won't be dealing with any dirt tracks here. The entire 106 km (66 miles) from Middelburg to Graaff-Reinet is fully paved, following the N9. But, pro tip: keep an eye on the weather, especially during the winter months. Heavy snowfall can make things a bit dicey, and there have been accidents in the past.
But, don't let that scare you off! This north-south route promises some killer views along the way. Just be prepared for potentially unpredictable weather, and you'll have an unforgettable adventure.
Road Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 106 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,781 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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