Durban , South Africa

Sani Pass Day Tour from Durban

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(22 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Starting off in Durban, our tour heads up through the KwaZulu-Natal midlands, to the picturesque town of Underberg, where the real adventure begins! Our Sani Pass tour snakes up the mountain and takes you through a scenic valley along a crystal clear river, making for a breath-taking experience. Your personal Tour Guide will fill you in on all you can learn about the history of the pass and the surrounding area. Feast your eyes on the natural landscape that is dotted with many species of wildflowers, creating splashes of vibrant colour. The road itself is rough which is why only 4×4 vehicles are allowed to traverse it, but because of this and the hairpin bends, you are in for a fun and heart-racing trip!

Once you reach the top your senses will be filled beyond your wildest dreams – breathe in the fresh mountain air, drink in the sweeping vistas that are nothing short of majestic and enjoy this unique African experience in the ‘Kingdom of the Sky’.

Available options

Sani Pass Day Tour from Durban

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Pickup and drop-off from Hotels in greater Durban area

Snacks

Transport by air-conditioned sedan/minivan to Underberg

Beverages

4wd transport with guide into Lesotho

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

6.00 – 6.30 AM

From your accommodation in Durban we head through the southern KZN midlands to the small village of Underberg where you leave your city vehicle for the rugged yet luxury 4x4 vehicle which can make it up the Sani Pass. 

9.00 AM
 With eager anticipation the tour group departs from the starting point and heads up to the highest pass in South Africa, Sani Pass. We travel through Himeville to the World Heritage Site of the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, following the Mkomazana River up the scenic Sani Valley to the South African Border Post (border formalities) and the Lesotho Border.

11.30 AM
 After the Lesotho border formalities at the top of Sani Pass, the group makes its way to a fully functional Basotho village to learn more about these humble people. You even get to taste their home-made bread and the local beer. 

12.30 PM
 To reflect on this incredible expedition, our tour now moves to the Highest Pub in Africa where we enjoy a hearty lunch and cold beer. 

2.30 PM We make our way back down the Sani Pass. 

4.00 PM
 We arrive back in Underberg and after a complimentary coffee stop we head back down to Durban to be in Durban approx. 6PM.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

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. We are in no way responsible for any traveller that is refused entry into Lesotho.

Important notes

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
• The listed price does not include a $20 fuel surcharge, IF your hotel is not within Durban. The fuel surcharge is required by our local supplier and is not within our control.

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