{
  "name": "Sani Pass",
  "slug": "sani-pass",
  "url": "https://www.bestdrivingroads.com/roads/sani-pass/",
  "summary": "The legendary gravel climb from KwaZulu-Natal up the Drakensberg Escarpment into Lesotho, South Africa's highest motor pass at 2,876 m, with 13 hairpins, gradients to 1:3 and sheer drops.",
  "roadNumbers": [
    "P318"
  ],
  "location": {
    "country": "South Africa",
    "region": "Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal",
    "start": {
      "name": "Himeville",
      "lat": -29.681541,
      "lon": 29.485392
    },
    "end": {
      "name": "Sani Top (Lesotho border)",
      "lat": -29.584932,
      "lon": 29.28668
    }
  },
  "measurements": {
    "lengthMiles": 16.7,
    "lengthKm": 26.9,
    "driveMinutes": 39,
    "corners": 68,
    "hairpins": 5,
    "maxGradientPercent": 20,
    "summitMetres": 2875.8,
    "elevationConfidence": "measured",
    "difficulty": "expert",
    "tightnessOutOf10": 8
  },
  "timing": {
    "bestSeasons": [
      "spring",
      "autumn",
      "winter"
    ]
  },
  "conditions": {
    "hasUnpavedSection": true
  },
  "hazards": [
    "4x4 mandatory",
    "Thirteen hairpin bends, several requiring three-point turns",
    "Gradients up to 1:3 (33%) on the upper section",
    "Loose gravel and deep ruts after rain",
    "Vertical cliff drops with no barriers",
    "Snow and ice possible any month at the summit",
    "Border post closes at 18:00"
  ],
  "scenery": [
    "mountain",
    "gorge",
    "valley"
  ],
  "pointsOfInterest": [
    "Sani Pass",
    "Mizno’s view",
    "Mkhomazana Waterfall"
  ],
  "geometry": {
    "pointCount": 183
  },
  "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"
}