Is the Carlisleshoek Pass unpaved?
South Africa, africa
20.4 km
2,563 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Carlisleshoek Pass in South Africa's Eastern Cape is calling your name. Nestled high in the Drakensberg Mountains, this unpaved beauty tops out at a dizzying 2,563 meters (8,408 feet). It's a 20.4 km (12.67 mile) stretch that plunges from the R396 near the charming village of Rhodes (think trout fishing!) up to the Tiffindell Ski Resort.
While you might not *need* a 4x4 in dry conditions, controlled power is a must, especially on those zigzagging cement strips during the most intense climbs. This pass isn't for the faint of heart. Expect steep grades—we're talking gradients of 1:10, with some sections hitting a crazy 1:2 (that's 44%!). Narrow roads, sharp corners, and blind spots are all part of the fun.
The descent into Rhodes is legendary. Bikers have called it "going into free fall" due to its steepness. Imagine dropping over 300 meters in just over 3 kilometers. Seriously, keep your speed down (think 40km/h max) and be prepared for slippery conditions, especially if it's wet. In winter, be prepared for extreme cold (as low as -22C!). Basically, come prepared, drive smart, and get ready for some insane scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 20.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,563 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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