Sani Pass Hairpin Bends - not for the faint-hearted.
Sani Pass is located in the western end of KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa on the road between Himeville and Mokhotlong, Lesotho it is the only route that connects Kwazulu-Natal and Lesotho and is a notoriously dangerous road, which requires the use of a 4x4 vehicle. This pass lies between the border controls of both countries, is approximately 9km in length and requires above average driving experience.
You can see the remains of vehicles that did not succeed in navigating its steep gradients and poor traction surfaces, and the pass 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 pass prohibit 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 was opened in 1948 - it was Godfrey Edmonds who arrived at Sani Top for the first time by vehicle. It took three hours and thirty five minutes to reach the border post and a further two and a quarter hours to reach the top. The equipment required for this epic feat included, a Basuto labour gang, with their ponies, a chain pulley block, jerry cans of petrol and lots of rope.
It must be remembered that the pass was a bridle path and was used as a route for trade between South Africa and Mokhotlong during this period and before. All goods were carried by pack mule.
This is reputed to be the Highest Pub in all of Africa!
Sani Top is at an altitude of 2873m above sea level.
Today it is a lot different, 4x4's regularly travel Sani Pass and the road has been improved so much that a standard bakkie should be able to make the trip, provided the weather is good. The icy layer covering the road in winter can be especially treacherous, evoking feelings of apprehension within drivers.
Note - 27 January 2015
Because of repeated mugglings, and the popularity of this cache (especially to overseas visitors) the container has been relocated to a sheltered position. The published co-ordinates will lead you to the entrance.