Durban: Journey along the Epic Sani Pass & Lesotho Tour
Active
13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Have you packed your passport? You’re heading into the Mountain Kingdom after all. At 3 240 meters above sea level it can get a tad icy so wrap yourself in one of our authentic Basotho Blankets which is yours for the day.
Our first stop is Himeville, at the base of the mountain, where you’ll climb into a rugged 4x4. Time to embark on the steep climb up the scenic and daunting Sani Pass. Get your passport stamped at the border and head into no-mans-land which connects South Africa to Lesotho.
Once you enter into Lesotho your guide will introduce you to a Basotho village before a bucketlist lunch (own cost) at Africa’s highest pub. Time to head down the mountain for your drive back to Durban.
TRAVEL VISA — Travellers are required to check whether they require a travel visa to enter Lesotho. If you require a visa it is your responsibility to acquire the necessary visa prior to the tour. Wild Routes Africa is in no way responsible for any traveller that is refused entry into Lesotho.
Available options
Durban: Journey along the Epic Sani Pass & Lesotho Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Himeville is the tiny town at the base of the Sani Pass. Here we will visit the local stables where you can visit some of the stalls and jump onto your 4x4 vehicle to tackle the daunting Sani Pass.
2
Stop 2
This is South Africa's most epic and daunting of mountain passes. It is effectively no mans land connecting South Africa to Lesotho otherwise known as "The Mountain Kingdom". Your guide will navigate their way up the pass stopping at strategic spots along the way that will allow you to take it all in. Expect jaw-dropping vistas and mountain landscapes. Depending on the season, the terrain can go from white snowy slopes to lush green slopes. Learn about the flora and fauna from your local guide as well as insights into the history and people of this area.
3
Stop 3
Get your passport stamped and enter into the land-locked Lesotho. Your first stop is a small village where you will enter into a rondavel and meet your local host. She will introduce you briefly to Basotho culture and share some of the most delicious traditional bread with you. If beer has been prepared, you will also get a chance to taste it. Quick tip: The traditional bread goes fantastically well with the soup offered at the pub we will be visiting next.
4
Stop 4
Welcome to the Highest Pub in Africa. Bucketlist - tick! Read the walls and take in the views. This is where we will be enjoying lunch (travellers own cost). Taste the beer and warm up if it's winter. There's also a WiFi hotspot here so make it count.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
TRAVEL VISA — Travellers are required to check whether they require a travel visa to enter Lesotho. If you require a visa it is your responsibility to acquire the necessary visa prior to the tour. Wild Routes Africa is in no way responsible for any traveller that is refused entry into Lesotho.
About Durban
Durban is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm tropical climate. It's a melting pot of cultures, offering a unique blend of African, Indian, and colonial influences.
Top Attractions
Golden Mile
A stretch of beautiful beaches along the Durban coastline, offering a variety of water sports, beach activities, and a vibrant promenade.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to enter, activities vary in cost
uShaka Marine World
A popular theme park and marine park featuring a variety of attractions, including a water park, aquarium, and dolphin shows.
Entertainment
Full day
Moderate to expensive
Durban Botanical Gardens
A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a heritage site.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free to enter, small fee for special exhibits
Victoria Street Market
A bustling market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Durban Museum
A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of Durban and the surrounding region.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Biltong
Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from various types of meat such as beef, game, or ostrich.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Durban Curry
A spicy curry dish with roots in Indian cuisine, often made with chicken, lamb, or seafood, and flavored with local spices.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Surfing
Hiking
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Cultural tours
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season with warm temperatures, frequent rain showers, and bustling beaches. It's the peak tourist season with vibrant festivals and events.
23°C to 30°C
73°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Zulu, English
- Widely spoken: Zulu, English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Durban is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violent crime can occur, particularly in certain areas and at night. Exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
Getting there
By air
- King Shaka International Airport • 35 km from city center
By train
Durban Station
By bus
Durban Bus Terminal, Grey Street Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
DART buses are affordable and convenient for getting around. They operate on dedicated bus lanes, making them faster than regular buses.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Berea
Morningside
Umgeni Road
Day trips
Valley of a Thousand Hills
30 km from Durban • Half day to full day
A scenic region known for its rolling hills, traditional Zulu villages, and cultural experiences. It offers a glimpse into rural Zulu life and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
St. Lucia
200 km from Durban • Full day or overnight
A coastal town in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and water activities. It's a popular destination for boat cruises, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
Drakensberg Mountains
250 km from Durban • Full day or overnight
A stunning mountain range known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a break from the city.
Festivals
Durban July • July
Durban International Film Festival • October
Sugar Rush Festival • December to January
Pro tips
- Visit the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures
- Try local street food like bunny chow and samosas for an authentic Durban culinary experience
- Explore the city's cultural heritage by visiting the Victoria Street Market and the Durban Botanical Gardens
- Take a day trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills for a scenic and cultural experience
- Attend a local event or festival, such as the Durban July or the Durban International Film Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
