{
  "name": "Moteng and Mahlasela Passes",
  "slug": "moteng-and-mahlasela-passes",
  "url": "https://www.bestdrivingroads.com/roads/moteng-and-mahlasela-passes/",
  "summary": "The highest tarred road in Southern Africa, the A1 climbs two dramatic passes in sequence: Moteng (2,820 m) with its 91 bends, then Mahlasela (signed at 3,222 m), the approach to Lesotho's only ski resort.",
  "roadNumbers": [
    "A1"
  ],
  "location": {
    "country": "Lesotho",
    "region": "Butha-Buthe District",
    "start": {
      "name": "'Moteng",
      "lat": -28.756862,
      "lon": 28.536378
    },
    "end": {
      "name": "Afriski",
      "lat": -28.809021,
      "lon": 28.727983
    }
  },
  "measurements": {
    "lengthMiles": 21,
    "lengthKm": 33.8,
    "driveMinutes": 44,
    "corners": 63,
    "hairpins": 6,
    "maxGradientPercent": 15,
    "summitMetres": 3277.2,
    "elevationConfidence": "measured",
    "difficulty": "demanding",
    "tightnessOutOf10": 6
  },
  "timing": {
    "bestSeasons": [
      "spring",
      "summer",
      "autumn"
    ]
  },
  "conditions": {},
  "hazards": [
    "Snow and ice in winter",
    "Closures after heavy snowfall",
    "Gradients up to 17%",
    "Heavy truck traffic",
    "Brake overheating on descent"
  ],
  "scenery": [
    "mountain",
    "moorland",
    "valley"
  ],
  "pointsOfInterest": [
    "Mahlasela Pass",
    "Moteng Pass"
  ],
  "geometry": {
    "pointCount": 214
  },
  "attribution": {
    "source": "Routes - bestdrivingroads.com",
    "citation": "Cite with a link to the road page. Stats are measured from the mapped line, not copied from other lists; where elevationConfidence is \"approximate\" the 30 m DEM cannot resolve that line and the elevation figures are indicative.",
    "roadGeometry": "(c) OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL",
    "terms": "Facts are free to cite with attribution; bulk reproduction of the catalogue requires permission (simon@keane.studio)."
  },
  "updated": "2026-08-03"
}