Cidade Turismo
South Africa

Before you go

Your trip to Underberg.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Underberg – KwaZulu-Natal Destination Drakensberg

How to get there

  • Aeroporto Internacional King Shaka (DUR) La Mercy · 210 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

From King Shaka Airport (DUR), Underberg is about 210 km via the N3 and R617, passing Pietermaritzburg, in roughly 3 hours. From Winterton it’s about 3 hours on secondary roads. There are tours departing from Durban.

How many days

Two days: one for the Sani Pass and another for Kamberg and the region’s trails.

When to go

March to May and September to November are the most settled months to climb the mountain. In winter snow can close the Sani Pass; in summer the road becomes muddy after rains.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Yes — and a 4x4 vehicle is mandatory for the Sani Pass. Those without one can go up on guided tours that depart from town.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Underberg
  1. Morning
    Sani Pass ascent

    Ascend the Sani Pass on a 4x4 tour, with stops at the viewpoints and the border post.

  2. Afternoon
    Lesotho

    At the top, visit a Basotho village and have lunch with views over the escarpment.

  3. Late afternoon
    Descent

    Descend the mountain with low light falling over the valleys.

  4. Evening
    Dinner in Himeville

    Dine at a guesthouse in Underberg or Himeville.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Underberg?

Drive up the Sani Pass into Lesotho, visit the Game Pass shelter in Kamberg, trout fish and go hiking.

Do you need a passport for the Sani Pass?

Yes. At the top of the road is the Lesotho border; confirm entry requirements before you go.

Do you need a 4x4 for the Sani Pass?

Yes, the ascent is only allowed for 4x4 vehicles. Guided tours from Underberg are a solution for those without one.

How far is Underberg from Durban?

About 210 km from the airport, roughly 3 hours.

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