
Where does Border Road 10 start and end?
Egypt, africa
190 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: driving a super-secret road, basically hugging the border between Israel and Egypt. That's Border Road 10 for you – a 190 km (118 mile) stretch of asphalt slicing through the Negev Desert. Seriously restricted, almost always closed, and patrolled by the military, it's not your average Sunday drive.
Think raw desert vibes, zero services (gas, cell signal, nada!), and some seriously intense history. We're talking about driving right next to a high-tech border fence, spotting Egyptian guard posts across the line, and feeling like you're in a real-life spy movie.
This road runs north to south, connecting the area near the Gaza Strip with the Red Sea near Eilat. Word is, the military sometimes opens it up during Jewish holidays (like Sukkot or Passover), but only for a few hours and in daylight. You *definitely* need to check with them beforehand because things can change fast.
The road itself? Paved, but not always pretty. Expect some rough patches, heat damage, and sand drifts. You'll climb to around 450 meters (1,476 feet) in the Negev Highlands, where the views of the Sinai Desert and the Eilat Mountains are mind-blowing. Pro tip: pack EVERYTHING. Fuel, food, and a ton of water are non-negotiable.
This road isn't just about the scenery, though. It's a vital artery for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), letting them quickly respond to anything happening at the border. Plus, those high-up spots along the way? They offer incredible views of the Egyptian desert – it's a crucial spot for keeping an eye on things in a very sensitive area.
Road Details
- Country
- Egypt
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 190 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in africa
hardWhat are the highest roads in South Africa?
🇿🇦 South Africa
# South Africa's Mountain Passes: A Driver's Dream South Africa is seriously one of the most geographically stunning countries you'll ever drive through. The landscape is basically split between a massive, elevated inland plateau and a coastline that drops dramatically down via the Great Escarpment. It's geology at its most dramatic – and it makes for some incredible driving. The crown jewel? The Drakensberg Mountains. These ancient, breathtaking peaks sit right at the edge of that escarpment, creating some of the most visually stunning mountainous terrain anywhere on the continent. All this crazy geography has spawned an amazing network of high mountain passes that'll get your adrenaline pumping. These routes tackle some serious elevation and steep grades as they cross the escarpment face, giving you the kind of challenging driving that comes with absolutely mind-blowing views. If you're driving here during the Southern Hemisphere winter, you might even catch snow on these passes – which is pretty surreal given where you are on the map. Ready to explore some of the world's most spectacular roads? Grab your map and start planning. Whether you're after heart-pounding curves or jaw-dropping vistas, South Africa's mountain passes deliver both in spades.
moderateIs Penhoek Pass paved?
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, so you HAVE to check out Penhoek Pass if you're in the Eastern Cape of South Africa! This beauty sits way up high in the Stormberg Mountains, topping out at 1,852 meters (that's over 6,000 feet!). The whole route, the N6 National Route, is completely paved, so no need for a 4x4. It stretches for a good 114 kilometers (71 miles) between Jamestown and Komani. What’s cool is this road was built way back in 1952 and features these beautifully banked corners and easy gradients. However, be warned — some parts are steep with a maximum gradient of 1:10. Now, the weather? Let's just say Penhoek Pass has a reputation! In winter, expect road closures thanks to heavy snowfall and freezing temps. Seriously, check conditions beforehand because things can get rough, fast. Even in summer, you're looking at potential electrical storms with HUGE hailstones. It's dramatic, it's gorgeous, but be prepared for anything!
hardSalt and mud on the 4x4 Skeleton Coast Road
🇳🇦 Namibia
Cruising the Skeleton Coast Road in Namibia's wild northwest is like driving on another planet. Seriously, it's one of the most surreal and breathtaking drives you'll ever experience! Tucked inside the Skeleton Coast National Park, this epic stretch of road hugs the Atlantic coastline on one side and stretches towards the central plains on the other, almost brushing up against the Angolan border. The Skeleton Coast is notorious for its shipwrecks – it’s practically the world's biggest ship graveyard. Why so many wrecks? Blame the crazy thick fogs that roll in when the hot desert air clashes with the icy Atlantic. Keep an eye out for the Cape Cross Seal Reserve a little further north! Officially known as the C34-D2302, this 437 km (271-mile) adventure runs north-south from the old German town of Swakopmund to Terrace Bay. The road is made of sand and salt, snaking through a desolate desert landscape dotted with the ghostly remains of shipwrecks. You'll feel like you're at the very edge of the earth. Out here, you're surrounded by nothing but sand for miles. Gas stations are scarce, so fuel up whenever you can. This road is seriously remote and lonely. The "salt" road is surprisingly smooth to drive on – almost better than asphalt! But watch out when the ocean mist rolls in; it gets super slippery, like black ice. You'll be tackling tarmac, gravel, sand, and salt-paved sections. Definitely a 4x4-only zone, and pack extra water and spare parts. Even during the day, drive with your headlights on to warn other drivers. The mirage effect is common, and the salt road becomes incredibly slippery after heavy mist. If it rains? Avoid the road altogether. Traction becomes non-existent, even for 4x4s, and the salt and mud will cake your vehicle. Don't even think about driving across the salt pans, even in a 4x4. And get this: even though Namibia uses kilometers, all the distance signs are in miles!
extremeWhere is Cirque de Jaffar?
🇲🇦 Morocco
Ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Morocco? Then buckle up for the Piste de Jaffar, a mind-blowing route into the heart of the Cirque de Jaffar! This natural amphitheater, nestled in the Drâa-Tafilalet region at the foot of the Eastern High Atlas mountains, is a sight to behold. Forget paved roads, this is a proper off-road experience! The 67.2 km (42 mile) track from Tounfit to Midelt is rocky, rugged, and will have your 4x4 working hard. Steep cliffs and loose debris add an extra dose of adrenaline, but the views? Totally worth it! Prepare to be awestruck by dramatic High Atlas scenery. The cirque itself has slopes that can reach a wild 45-50 degrees in places! You'll climb to a lofty 2,257m (7,404ft) above sea level, so summer is definitely the best time to go. Give yourself 3-4 hours to tackle this epic piste (without stops!), and get ready for a classic High Atlas adventure! The road and cirque get their name from the tomb and village of Sidi Jaffar.