Ongeluks Nek Pass, a tricky road to the summit
Ongeluks Nek Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.541m (8,336ft) above the sea level, located in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, near the border with Lesotho. This is a high rainfall area, therefore this track is often very muddy and slippery. No road maintenance is done on this road. Do not travel this pass in severe weather conditions.
The road over the pass is unpaved and features with stones. It’s strictly for offroad vehicles only. The pass is translated into "Accident Neck". Be very careful driving where you can't see. It’s recommend that you get out of your vehicle and inspect the next kilometer on foot.The road is in danger of becoming impossible to traverse and severely damaged if not protected.
If you dare to take the risk and travel along this dusty and bumpy route, then make sure to be driven by someone who has experience of the road. The vehicles should have low range and adequate ground clearance as this track is usually rutted, muddy and quite difficult to negotiate. With an average gradient of 1:9 vehicles with diff locks and high ground clearance will transverse this pass easier. For safety purposes a minimum of 2 vehicles is recommended. The higher you climb the rougher and rockier the road gets. You can expect high winds and electrical storms at the summit at times during summer, and snowfall during winter.
Pic: JonWoodgate