The Majestic Swartberg Pass: A Scenic Marvel
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Swartberg Pass, a must-visit mountain pass in South Africa, showcasing stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Swartberg Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass in South Africa, renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and captivating geological features. Perfect for adventurous tourists, this picturesque route offers mesmerizing views and unforgettable experiences.
A brief summary to Swartberg Pass
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, as some sections of the pass can be steep and winding.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the route.
- Take your time to stop and enjoy the viewpoints along the way; each offers unique perspectives.
- Consider visiting in spring when wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving along Route 62, head towards the town of Oudtshoorn. From Oudtshoorn, take the R328 road heading northeast. Follow the R328 for approximately 26 kilometers until you reach the entrance to Swartberg Pass. The road is well-marked, and you will see signs indicating the pass. As you ascend, be prepared for scenic views and winding roads.
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Public Transportation
To reach Swartberg Pass via public transport, take a bus from Cape Town or George to Oudtshoorn. Once in Oudtshoorn, you can hire a local taxi or shuttle service to take you to the Swartberg Pass. The taxi fare may vary, so it is advisable to negotiate the price beforehand. The distance from Oudtshoorn to Swartberg Pass is about 26 kilometers, and the journey may take around 30-40 minutes depending on road conditions.
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Walking
If you are adventurous and within a reasonable distance from the pass, consider hiking to the Swartberg Pass. However, ensure you have appropriate gear and water, as the terrain can be rugged. The pass itself is quite steep, so this option is best for those with hiking experience.
Discover more about Swartberg Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Swartberg Pass
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Swartberg Pass, a must-visit mountain pass in South Africa, showcasing stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Groot Swartberg Nature Reserve
13.8 km
Explore Groot Swartberg Nature Reserve: A Nature Lover's Paradise in South Africa with Diverse Flora, Fauna, and Scenic Trails.
Altes Landhaus
21.9 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Altes Landhaus, a charming lodge nestled in the breathtaking Schoemanshoek Valley near Oudtshoorn.
Oppi Dam
22.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Oppi Dam, a serene campground in Oudtshoorn offering self-catering accommodations amidst stunning nature.
Gamkaskloof
31.9 km
Explore Gamkaskloof - a breathtaking ravine in South Africa's Cederberg Mountains, perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing in nature's beauty.
De Zeekoe | Self Catering, Bed & Breakfast Oudtshoorn Accommodation
32.6 km
Experience the beauty of Oudtshoorn at De Zeekoe, a serene guest house offering wildlife encounters and scenic landscapes.
Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
37.2 km
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Du'SwaRoo
37.7 km
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Outeniqua Nature Reserve
73.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Outeniqua Nature Reserve, a nature preserve along Montagu Pass, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and serene picnics.
Garden Route Botanical Garden
76.2 km
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Aardvark Bioreserve
98.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Swartberg Game Reserve
13.3 km
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Fransie Pienaar Museum
14.6 km
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Cango Caves
15.7 km
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Wolwekraal Nature Reserve
17.6 km
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Cango Ostrich Farm
23.0 km
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Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
26.4 km
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Meerkat Adventures
27.8 km
Witness the playful meerkats of Oudtshoorn at Meerkat Adventures, a unique wildlife experience that combines fun, education, and breathtaking scenery.
Cango Wildlife Ranch
27.9 km
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Rust-en-Vrede Waterfall
28.7 km
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C.P Nel Museum
29.8 km
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Oudtshoorn
30.0 km
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Safari Ostrich Farm
32.3 km
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Highgate Ostrich Show Farm
34.7 km
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Tsumkwe Private Game Reserve
37.0 km
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Gamkaberg Nature Reserve
38.3 km
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Essential places to dine
The Black Swan Restaurant & Cape Karoo Eatery
29.0 km
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Nostalgie Restaurant
29.4 km
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Route 62 Bar and Grill
29.6 km
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Café @ The Rose
38.9 km
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Ebenharts Restaurant
38.9 km
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Frikkie se Gat
52.5 km
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Rietfontein Padstal Leeu-Gamka
55.0 km
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Oak Room Restaurant
64.6 km
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Deja Vu Equestrian Cottages & De Hoft Restaurant
74.1 km
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Olive Garden
75.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Olive Garden in Ladismith - where every meal is a celebration of taste.
Botlierskop Restaurant
75.6 km
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The Hussar Grill George
76.7 km
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101 Meade Street Restaurant
77.3 km
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The Pot Village
78.1 km
Experience delightful local cuisine at The Pot Village in Groot Brakrivier – where flavor meets stunning scenery.
Transkaroo Restaurant
79.2 km
Experience authentic South African farm cuisine at Transkaroo Restaurant in Groot Brakrivier – where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bella de Karoo
26.8 km
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Karoo Antiques
29.6 km
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Klein Karoo Agri
29.7 km
Experience the charm of local culture at Klein Karoo Agri, where authentic products and warm hospitality await in Oudtshoorn.
Charlene's Material / Textiles
30.9 km
Discover a vibrant selection of textiles at Charlene's Material, Oudtshoorn's go-to fabric store for all your crafting needs.
Karoo Rustic
31.2 km
Explore Karoo Rustic in Oudtshoorn for exquisite handcrafted handbags that embody local artistry and charm.
Cape Karoo Ostrich Emporium
32.0 km
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Cape Karoo International Abattoir Shop Oudtshoorn
32.5 km
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Mooikaroo
47.3 km
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The Mall @ van Wyksdorp
70.4 km
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Boerevintage Gift Market
74.0 km
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Karoo Vine
74.4 km
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Youniq Gifts & Accessories
76.8 km
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Nicci Boutiques Garden Route Mall
80.0 km
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Eden Meander Lifestyle Centre
81.3 km
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Poetry Garden Route Mall
81.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bush Pub (Prince Albert)
14.3 km
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The Green Prince Gin Bar @ Swartberg Hotel
14.8 km
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Sky Lounge And Bar
29.9 km
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Zamani Grill - Calitzdorp (Home to The Smallest Bar)
38.8 km
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Johnny's Place
43.9 km
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The Grumpy Goat Bar -Pub and Grub
47.2 km
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Corner Club
73.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of George at Corner Club, your go-to bar for delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Gypsy's Gin Bar Bistro Deli
74.6 km
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Tarantino's Resto Bar
77.5 km
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OpiSpoor Restaurant & Pub
79.2 km
OpiSpoor Restaurant & Pub in Groot Brakrivier offers a delightful grill menu, stunning views, and an inviting atmosphere for all visitors.
Salty River Beer House
81.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Salty River Beer House, a must-visit beer garden in Kleinbrak River.
The 19th pub
85.8 km
Experience South African nightlife at The 19th Pub in Hartenbos, where great drinks and lively vibes await every visitor.
Village Pub
86.0 km
Discover the cozy Village Pub in Wilderness, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a warm atmosphere await you amidst stunning natural beauty.
Na Donker
86.1 km
Experience the thrill of live sports and local flavors at Na Donker, Hartenbos's favorite sports bar!
Pirates Action Bar
89.2 km
Experience the thrill of sports, karaoke, and pirate-themed fun at Pirates Action Bar in Mossel Bay—your ultimate entertainment destination.
