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Bezuidenhout Pass is a remote gravel Pass found between Harrismith and Bergville, not far east from the Sterkfontein Dam. The Pass is best explored in the Summer months, Winter months can bring snow and ice on the Pass making it very dangerous.

Distance 5.6 km
Gradient average 1:14
Gradient maximum 1:8
Summit 1749 m
Surface Gravel / Dirt Track

Less of a drive and more of a 4X4 exploration, this very steep Pass means preparing yourself to travel at no more than 10 kph therefore allowing plenty of time, most likely between 60 to 90 minutes, to drive the 5.6 km Bezuidenhout Pass. The Pass is only suitable for 4X4 vehicles with good ground clearance and low range.

Bezuidenhout Pass is not on any major road and so is not easy to locate. The best possible route to the Pass is to head north out of Bergville along the R74, and just where the town ends, turn right onto the tarred R616. At the fork keep left and continue for approximately 19.4 km, the tarred road gives way to gravel at this point, before turning left onto the access road to Bezuidenhout Pass. After this last left-hand turn travel 10 km to the southern start of the Pass.

It is highly advisable to consult a map before and while driving the Pass. The condition of the road deteriorates rather rapidly from the start. This is not an easy Pass, in some places the road seems nothing more than boulders and sand and along the rapid ascent, every s-bend and ridge can seem a feat. However, once up the steepest section of the Pass, the views of the Drakensberg are simply amazing. The landscape of the entire Pass is breath-taking!

An interesting note is that the summit point is also the precise line demarcating the border between the Free State and KwaZulu Natal.

Thing to do and see

  • Kwaggashoek Settlement
  • Venterspruit & Ngcongcose River
  • Drakensberg Mountain Views
  • Border Summit

Admission

Free to Drive

Best during daylight hours

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