Sani Pass

Through the Mzimkulwana Nature Reserve runs the road to the Sani Pass. The only way through the Natal Drakensberg between the Royal Natal National Park to the north and Bushman's Nek to the south is over this spectacular pass (2,895m/9,498ft), which lies on the frontier between South Africa and Lesotho. (Only vehicles with four-wheel drive are allowed on the 8km/5mi of road between the two frontier posts; on foot it takes between 2 and 3 hours.) To the north of the pass is Mt Thabana Ntlenyana (3,482m/11,424ft), the highest peak in southern Africa.

The pass takes its name from the San (Bushmen), who fled over this pass to escape from their white and black persecutors.

At the foot of the pass on the South African side is the comfortable Sani Pass Hotel. Near the hotel is the starting-point of the Giant's Cup Hiking Trail (60km/37mi), which ends at Bushman's Nek; it should present no difficulties to experienced walkers.