South Africa
beauty, you'll never forget

The Homtini Pass is situated between the towns of George and Knysna in the Western Cape, South Africa.

The Pass is the sixth of seven Passes along the famous 7 Passes Road when travelling from George to Knysna and it lies just above the town of Sedgefield. The 7 Passes Road was constructed back in the 1880’s and for 70 years was the only road between George and Knysna until the N2 through the Wilderness replaced it with a faster option.

Distance 5km
Gradient average 1:33
Gradient maximum 1:5
Elevation bridge 79m
Surface Gravel

Also known as the Goukama River Pass and is arguably one of the more beautiful of the passes as it takes the route through the thick forest. Built by Thomas Bain, the 5 km Homtini Pass is a narrow, gravel road with a speed limit of 60 km/hr. The route is suitable for most vehicles and takes about 12 minutes to travel, excluding stops. It is an incredibly scenic drive, descending down to the river from which it received its name and ends Rheenendal Timber Mill.

The old wooden bridge has been converted to concrete, but other than this the road remains exactly the same. Homtini means “difficult passage” and the Koi-San people no doubt this to be true when bringing their cattle along this route to the coast from the mountains. Today it is not a difficult route however, parts of the road are corrugated and pot-holed. Also watch out for cyclists and small animals – please keep to the speed limit.

Thing to do and see

  • Homtini River
  • Homtini Moutain Bike Trail (19 km)
  • Small Antelope & Baboons
  • Jubilee Creek Picnic Site (Rheenendal)

Admission

There is no charge to travel along the pass and it is recommended that visitors to the Pass travel during daylight hours.

Climate

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 15˚C and 28˚C with high rainfall in October.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 7˚C and 21˚C with the lowest rainfall in June.

Transport

Commercial Airlines offer flights into George Airport. The N2 highway will take you into the Knysna, approximately a one hour drive. Car hire facilities are located at the Airports. 

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