Sani Pass Tours

04/08/2024

Most commonly known as the Mokorotlo, this is a conical-shaped hat worm by the people in Lesotho is made out of a grass named moseha. Its shape is said to have been copied from that of Qiloane Mountain which is located next to Thaba Bosiu in Lesotho. The Basotho people often display the mokorotlo in their homes, indicating that they uphold the customs and acknowledge their bonds with their heritage and ancestors. It also serves to protect the home against danger and other evil influences. The hat is an important part of the Basotho cultural attire that is worn to reflect national identity and pride.

01/08/2024

We had such a great day up the mountain with this group! If you’re looking for ideas for a really awesome year end function, why not bring the whole crew and join us for a day trip to Lesotho with lunch at the Highest pub in Africa. It’s an epic day, one the team won’t forget!

Drop us an email for big group rates ➡️ [email protected]

28/07/2024

It’s been a busy few days taking our very special guests up the mountain! It’s what we do and it’s what we love!

25/07/2024

Winter is not over .....

See our website for details of dates and locations

25/07/2024

Martin and one of our guests keeping cosy inside a traditional Basotho hut also known as a Mokhoro, while experiencing some freshly baked home made bread, and taking in the warmth and hospitality of the Lesotho people as they share stories of Lesothos rich history and age old traditions.

21/07/2024

Who’s up for some Sunday fun? Our Sani Pass Tour is the perfect way to spend the day out in the mountains exploring Lesotho with your partner or with the whole family. All you need are your passports and we’ll take care of the rest while you sit back and enjoy the scenery!

Book your seats today⬇️
www.sanipasstours.com

18/07/2024

Nestled within Lesotho's rugged Maluti Mountains, the Spiral Aloe stands as a testament to both beauty and resilience.

Discovered by Mr. F.H. Holland in 1915 amidst the Phurumela Mountains, this rare botanical gem captivates with its distinctive spiral arrangement of leaves, gracefully curving in either clockwise or anticlockwise patterns. Come spring and early summer, these enchanting aloes bloom in shades ranging from subdued red to vibrant salmon-pink, occasionally gracing the landscape with yellow hues. Stemless and sturdy, mature specimens can span over a meter in diameter and reach heights of up to 80 cm.

Endemic to Lesotho, the Spiral Aloe thrives in alpine climates above 2000 meters, enduring freezing winters and lush, thunderstorm-filled summers. Yet, despite its hardiness, this endangered species faces threats from illegal harvesting and habitat degradation caused by overgrazing and wildfires. Found primarily on north-facing basaltic slopes with sparse soil, these colonies, often consisting of 300 or more individuals, embody a fragile balance between natural beauty and environmental conservation in Lesotho's mountainous regions.

14/07/2024

Well done to our very own Njabulo!!

"Thank you Sani Pass Tours and our tour guide/driver for Friday Njabula. You were amazing, friendly and had so much patience not forgetting your great driving skills up the pass. Thank you for taking us safe and bringing us down back safely. I pray Sani Pass tours yourls business will grow and the Lord will expand yourls boundaries. 🙏🙏🙏"

14/07/2024

For those of you wanting to know how many degrees it is at the top, I think this photo sums it up!

11/07/2024

It’s no wonder this corner on the pass is called “Ice Corner”. Natures frozen masterpiece.
Book here 👇
www.sanipasstours.com

09/07/2024

09/07/2024

08/07/2024

07/07/2024

Our guides Martin and Sfiso ready to take our guests beyond borders and into Lesotho's breathtaking landscapes on an unforgettable adventure.

Book your seats today to join us on our next tour!
www.sanipasstours.com

04/07/2024

Taste the Tradition of Lesotho.

For those who have journeyed up the Sani Pass with us, you'll remember the warm, inviting aroma of Basotho bread, a delicious staple traditionally crafted by the Basotho women.

This special bread combines brown bread flour, sugar, yeast, a pinch of salt, and water which are kneaded together to form a dough. The dough is then split into 10 equal pieces which are rolled into balls and then left to rise for an hour before being placed into a large oiled cast iron pot and baked for an hour.

Cooked over a fire made on the floor at the center of the hut, this bread is a true taste of Lesotho's heritage. If you’ve tasted it you know all about it!

Join us for a Sani Pass tour and experience this culinary delight firsthand.
www.sanipasstours.com

30/06/2024

Amidst the vast, rolling landscapes of Lesotho, a young Mosotho boy plays the mamokhorong, a traditional bowed monochord instrument also known as the sekhankula. Constructed from a five-litre tin can resonator, a stalk, and a wire, this "single-string violin" is played with a friction bow, producing sounds reminiscent of a "cracked violin" or a metallic version of the Ethiopian masinko. Historically made and played by herders to entertain themselves, the mamokhorong's sound is influenced by the tin's quality and the bow's movement. This photo captures the boy's connection to his cultural heritage, bringing to life melodies passed down through generations, echoing the resilience and spirit of his people.

26/06/2024

The Southern Drakensberg and Sani Pass are celebrated for it’s stunning natural beauty, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage, making them a top destination for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. This region showcases distinct seasons, each with its own attractions. In summer, the landscape is adorned with lush vegetation and blooming wildflowers, while winter brings crisp air and snow-capped peaks, transforming the area into a picturesque winter wonderland.

The Southern Drakensberg's blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a captivating destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a connection with nature. Why not join us for a guided 4x4 tour up the Sani Pass and experience it for yourself?

24/06/2024

Smiles as high as the peaks! Another unforgettable day conquering the legendary Sani Pass, accompanied by guests who love adventure as much as we do!

20/06/2024

If you’re looking for something to keep the whole family entertained this holiday why not join us for a day trip up the pass and into Lesotho for a hearty lunch at the Highest Pub in Africa!

Book your seats today.

www.sanipasstours.com

16/06/2024

The Sani Pass, a gateway to adventure for the whole family!

Book today➡️
www.sanipasstours.com

13/06/2024

This one is for our history lovers! Step into the 1930s where it all began…

In the early 1930s, a severe drought in Lesotho led to the construction of the bridle path system, providing work and food for the starving Basotho people while opening up the mountainous regions. Maj. Harry Smith, witnessing the exhaustion and starvation of animals climbing the pass, secured permission to build a bridle path down into Natal, a feat he accomplished for just £60.

The story of motorized travel on Sani Pass began in 1948 when Godfrey Edmond navigated the track with a Willy’s Jeep, taking 14 grueling hours to cover the distance. Brother Peppin followed with a tractor, and by 1955, David Alexander launched the first motorized service, Mokhotlong Mountain Transport - now called Sani Pass Tours, with a Jeep and six mules. The bridle path was transformed into an access track for Jeeps in 1957, and by 1960, the operation had moved to its current site on the Sani Pass road.

Despite challenges like the great snowfall of May 1959, which blocked the pass for three months, and heavy rains that cut off roads, Sani Pass remains a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. Today, this historical route offers adventurers a journey through time, culture, and the beautiful landscapes of the Drakensberg Mountains.

09/06/2024

Meet Wilson, affectionately known as Duma, one of our treasured tour guides at Sani Pass Tours. With nearly 20 years of navigating the Sani Pass, and 16 of those years with us, Duma is an indispensable part of our team. His wonderful sense of humor, incredible wealth of knowledge, and meticulous attention to detail make every journey unforgettable. But it's his endearing warmth and hospitality that truly set him apart, making our guests fall in love with him time and again. We are immensely grateful to have Duma guiding our adventures and sharing his passion for this magnificent landscape. Mr Duma, we love you!

05/06/2024

Nothing on the Sani Pass but how stunning is this at Semonkong Lodge, Place of Smoke

05/06/2024

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort

02/06/2024

No matter how many times you’ve done it, the view from the top of the Sani Pass will leave you speechless!

02/06/2024

Things are looking GREAT for some snow ......

See our website for details of dates and locations

01/06/2024

Just a little our way!!

❄️😱🥶 LATEST SNOW FORECAST 🥶☃️☃️

The Latest Weather Model Update has now really made things look even crazier than our past two forecasts.

The forecast has strengthened significantly indicating that it is "possible" that Southern Namibia and 8 provinces of South Africa (including Gauteng) could see snow over the weekend into next week.

This forecast is still subject to change, we will keep you posted.

Be Prepared for some very COLD weather ahead !!!

Full forecast will be available shortly at https://snownews.co.za

30/05/2024

We often get asked what vehicles we use to get up the pass, and the answer is always so sweet - Toyotas. Why? Well let's just say our Toyota Land Cruisers and Prados have a special superpower, and they love mountain climbing as much as we do!

While Land Rover lovers might be sipping tea and discussing the weather, our Toyotas are out here roaring up the rocky trails, grinning at every turn. It's like they have a built-in GPS for adventure and a sixth sense for epic landscapes. Plus, rumor has it that Toyotas have a secret pact with the mountain goats – they're all in it for the thrill!

So, if you see us cruising up the pass with a smile, you'll know it's because our trusty Toyotas are leading the charge, eager to show the Land Rovers what real off-roading looks like.😜🐐💪

01/05/2024

Unveiling the Majestic Basotho Ponies: Guardians of Lesotho's Highlands.

In the rugged expanse of Lesotho's highlands, the Basotho Pony reigns supreme, embodying the resilience and grace of this mountainous kingdom. Renowned for their endurance and sure-footedness, these ponies have been faithful companions to the Basotho people for generations, navigating the challenging terrain with ease.

As you explore the majestic landscapes of Lesotho, keep an eye out for these noble steeds grazing against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and rolling hills – a sight that encapsulates the essence of Lesotho's cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Photo credit: Casey Pratt // Semonkong Lodge

28/04/2024

Allow us to introduce you to Sfiso, a very important member of our team!

With almost a decade of navigating the twists and turns of the Sani Pass under his belt, Sfiso's practically got the mountain's DNA running through his veins.

Born and raised in Bulwer, this local legend combines his deep-rooted knowledge of the land with a great sense of humor that always brings a smile to our guests' faces.

We couldn't be happier to have him on our team, sharing his passion and expertise with our guests.

Thank you for all your hard work and enthusiasm that you bring to the team Sfiso, we appreciate you!