
Table of Contents
The 3 days Lesotho Tour take you to the highest pub in Africa via Sani Pass with and experienced guide with a 4 x 4 vehicle. Small group tour and leaving from Johannesburg and end in Durban.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lesotho on this 3-day Sani Pass tour from Johannesburg. Journey through the Drakensberg Mountains, ascend the iconic Sani Pass in a 4×4, and immerse yourself in Basotho culture. Enjoy stunning landscapes, visit a traditional village, and relax at Africa’s highest pub. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers!

Road Trip to the Highest Pub in Africa
Embark on a scenic and adventurous road trip to the Sani Mountain Lodge, home to the “highest pub in Africa,” perched at 2,874 meters above sea level in Lesotho.
Itinerary Highlights:
- Starting Point and Journey to Underberg
- Begin your trip from a convenient starting point, such as Johannesburg or Pretoria
- Travel through the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa, including the Drakensberg foothills and picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
- Overnight in the charming town of Underberg, the gateway to the Sani Pass.
- Conquering the Sani Pass
- Switch to a 4×4 vehicle to navigate the Sani Pass, a rugged mountain road known for its sharp switchbacks and awe-inspiring views.
- Marvel at the dramatic scenery as you climb from South Africa into the highlands of Lesotho.
- Arriving at the Highest Pub in Africa
- Descent and Return
- Descend the Sani Pass, enjoying a fresh perspective of the breathtaking scenery.
- Return to your base in Underberg or continue your journey to other destinations, such as Durban or Johannesburg.
Travel Tips:
- A valid passport is required to cross into Lesotho.
- Ensure your tour operator or guide is licensed for the Sani Pass.
- Dress warmly, as the high altitude often brings cold weather, even in summer.
This road trip offers a thrilling combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, culminating in a memorable visit to the “highest pub in Africa.”
Overview of Lesotho
Lesotho, formally the Kingdom of Lesotho, formerly known as Basutoland, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. As an enclave of South Africa, with which it shares a 1,106 km (687 mi) border, it is the largest sovereign enclave in the world, and the only one outside of the Italian Peninsula. It is situated in the Maloti Mountains and contains the highest peak in Southern Africa. It has an area of over 30,000 km2 (11,600 sq mi) and has a population of about two million. Its capital and largest city is Maseru. The country is also known by the nickname The Mountain Kingdom/The Kingdom in the Sky.
The Sotho ethnic group (also known as Basotho), from which the country derives its name, composes 99.7% of the country’s current population, making it one of the most ethnically homogeneous in the world. Their native language, Sesotho, is the official language along with English. The name Lesotho translates to “land of the Sesotho speakers
About Sani Pass
Sani Pass is located in the western end of KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa on the road between Underberg and Mokhotlong, Lesotho it is a route that connects Kwazulu-Natal and Lesotho.
It is a notoriously dangerous road, which requires the use of a 4×4 vehicle. This pass lies between the border controls of both countries and is approximately 9 km in length and requires above average driving experience. It has occasional remains of vehicles that did not succeed in navigating its steep gradients and poor traction surfaces and has a catalogue of frightening stories of failed attempts at ascending the path over the Northern Lesotho mountains.
While South African immigration at the bottom of the pass prohibits vehicles deemed unsuitable for the journey, the Lesotho border agents at the top generally allow vehicles of all types to attempt the descent. The Sani Pass dirt road is to be upgraded in two phases, with construction work commencing in December 2006.
It was originally intended that the part from the Sani Pass Hotel to the Lesotho Border post be done in two phases, but this has subsequently been consolidated into a single 2nd phase. The Border between the two Countries closes at 4:00 pm every day and the Pass is often closed due to weather conditions, especially during winter. The Sani Pass was recently used in TV advertisements for the new Nissan 4×4 and Ford Ranger 4×4 cars
Ready to Explore? Let’s Chat About Your Dream Trip.
We’ll turn your travel ideas into reality. Start your next adventure with SA Traveler – your ultimate travel companion. Let your wanderlust soar! Start exploring today and let unforgettable experiences await!
3-Day Lesotho Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Road Trip to Underberg via Howick
- Begin your journey from Johannesburg/Pretoria
- Stop at Howick, a charming town known for the iconic Howick Falls and its historical connection to Nelson Mandela’s capture site.
- Enjoy some time exploring the local attractions before continuing to Underberg, a quaint town nestled in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg
Day 2: Sani Pass Adventure into Lesotho
- Switch to 4×4 vehicles and embark on the thrilling ascent of the Sani Pass, a rugged mountain road offering breathtaking views.
- Cross the border into Lesotho and visit a Basotho village, experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the local people.
- Enjoy a meal at the famous Sani Mountain Lodge, the “highest pub in Africa.”
- Descend back down the Sani Pass and return to Howick for the night.
Day 3: Return to Durban
- After breakfast, depart from Howick and enjoy a leisurely drive back to Durban.
- Optional stops could include Mandela Capture site and the Midlands Meander attractions or a quick visit to Pietermaritzburg.
- Tour ends with drop-off in Durban by mid-afternoon.
This tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure, making it an unforgettable journey through the Drakensberg and into Lesotho.
Highlights
- Scenic Drive through the Drakensberg – Travel from Johannesburg through the stunning landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal.
- 4x4 Adventure up Sani Pass – Ascend the legendary Sani Pass, one of Africa’s most thrilling mountain roads.
- Explore the Kingdom of Lesotho – Visit a traditional Basotho village and experience local culture.
- Breathtaking Mountain Views – Enjoy panoramic vistas from the highlands of Lesotho.
- Africa’s Highest Pub – Relax with a drink at the famous Sani Mountain Lodge.
