South Africa
places you will never forget

Molteno Pass lies in the Nuweveld Mountains along the R381, between Beaufort West and Loxton, essentially linking the oldest town in the area with the Northern Cape. It was named after the first Prime Minister of the Cape, Sir J.C. Molteno, a businessman who owned extensive land in the area.

Distance 15.8 km
Gradient average 1:24
Gradient maximum 1:6
Summit 1574 m
Surface Tar & Gravel

The Pass was built by master builder Thomas Bain in 1881 and is considered to be amongst the oldest in the country. Molteno Pass is a mix of gravel and tar and an enjoyable and scenic drive – one that offers a variety of landscapes and is close to attractions in both the quaint town of Victoria West and the historical town of Beaufort West.

Considering the Pass is located in the Karoo, one may mistakenly assume the road to be straight with only an odd hill here and there. This is not the case with the Molteno Pass which bends and curves along the shape of the mountain as it offers views of the Gamka River and Dam and access to the Tiefontein Farm and Bush Camp which is also the road leading to the Bontebok Pass – well worth the detour.

The Karoo National Park is situated just off the N2 outside of Beaufort West and part of the Molteno Pass runs alongside the border of the Park - you are bound to encounter them while driving otherwise without doubt in the Karoo National Park.

Things to do and see

  • Gamka Dam
  • Bontebok Pass
  • Rivers, Streams & Ravines
  • Karoo National Park
  • Possible Springbok Sightings
  • Karoo Landscape & View Points

Admission

Free to Drive

Best during daylight hours

Created: ; Last updated: