Spreetshoogte Pass is one of the steepest (14%) drives in Namibia

Spreetshoogte Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.822m (5,977ft) above the sea level, located in Khomas region of central Namibia. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Spreetshoogte Pass

Is Spreetshoogte Pass paved?

Connecting the Namib Desert with the Khomas Highland, the road to the summit is mostly unpaved. It has concrete sections on the steepest parts. It’s called D1275.

How long is Spreetshoogte Pass?

The pass is 50.4 km (31.31 miles) long, running from Solitaire, near the Namib-Naukluft National Park to Nauchas, on the D1261 road. The pass is named after farmer Nicolaas Spreeth.

Is Spreetshoogte Pass steep?

Hitting a 14% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps, it’s one of the steepest passes in southern Africa. The road is extremely steep, descending almost 1,000 metres (3,300 ft) within 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) of road. As such, it is a little trickier to drive. The descent is very dangerous in order to keep the danger of failing brakes to a minimum. It’s passable only for vehicles without trailers. Trucks and caravans are forbidden to use it. The sharp bends and steep gradients are not bad news for intrepid explorers.

Is Spreetshoogte Pass worth it?

To drive the road without stopping will take most people between 45 and 60 minutes. The drive offers unrivalled views of the dramatic landscape below the pass. The top of the pass has a viewpoint affording scenic views of the Namib Desert. It is best to drive in the afternoons as the landscape in the later afternoon sun is truly gorgeous and offers some awesome photographic opportunities. On top of the mountain can be very windy.