An epic enthralling road to Baster Voetslaan Pass
Baster Voetslaan Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,240 m (7,349 ft) above sea level, located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Avoid the pass entirely when it is wet, as conditions get slippery at best.
Why is it called Baster Voetslaan Pass?
This tricky pass was named to remember a splinter group of freed slaves who descended it to found a new settlement in the vicinity of Ugie.
Is Baster Voetslaan Pass unpaved?
The road to the summit, also known as Baster Voetpad, Bastervoetpad Pass, and Dr. Lapa Munnik Pass, is totally unpaved. The road combines technical driving with stunning views.
How challenging is Baster Voetslaan Pass?
The road is rough in places, and to complete the drive, you’ll need a proper 4x4 vehicle with low range and high ground clearance. Under no circumstances should you attempt to drive this pass in a conventional vehicle. The drive is not for the sissies as it winds its way through some spectacular mountainous terrain. It is a true adventurer’s pass with some vertigo-inducing drop-offs and very rough sections. There are some very steep and slippery sections at a gradient of 1:4.
How long is Baster Voetslaan Pass?
The pass road is 35.3 km (21.93 miles) long, running west-east from the R393 road to the R56 road. The area is really remote.
Is Baster Voetslaan Pass open?
Set high in the Eastern Cape Highlands, in the winter months, this pass is frequently closed under heavy snowfalls, when it can become treacherous. In bad weather, it’s subject to electrical storms, violent winds, heavy rain, hail, and snow.
Pic: Willem Schoeman