From your Hotel / Guest house we travel North to the Southern foothills of the Swartberg Mountains. From here we commence our 900-meter scenic eco-tour up the world renowned Swartberg Pass. At the summit of the Swartberg Pass (1 580 meter above sea level) you will enjoy a scenic walk on this National monument.
The Pass has a gravel surface and was constructed by renowned road engineer, Thomas Bain over a 4-year period and opened on 10 January 1888. From the “top” of the Swartberg Pass you will enjoy picture perfect panoramic views over the Klein- and Great Karoo. The dry-stone technique used to construct the pass required extreme manual labour and is as solid as it was when constructed 136 years ago.
A qualified eco guide will accompany you on the optional scenic walk on the pass and introduce you to the spectacular Sandstone formations dating back more than 300 million years. Feasting your eyes on the full splendor of diverse “fynbos” species ranging from various protea species as well as “cone bush” and “pin cushions” will accentuate he need for conservation of our natural resources and habitats.
You may even spot a soaring Verreaux’s Eagle, Jackal Buzzard or any of the many species of Sunbirds feasting on the nectar of the proteas. The agility of the “Klipspringer” (small antelope) over the rugged sandstone formations will astound you.The tranquility and serenity of this unique experience reflects the essence of a bygone era where wagons and riders on horseback was a familiar sight.
At the summit (“Die Top”) of the Swartberg Pass, 1 350m above sea level, you will be treated to panoramic vistas over the southern and northern slopes of the Swartberg Mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). From here we decent down the Swartberg Pass towards the renowned “Tee Berg” lookout point. En-route we will enjoy scenic walks on the Swartberg Pass exploring the diverse fynbos and bird species endemic to this protected vegetational biome.
After your Swartberg Pass excursion we enjoy a light lunch before returning to your Hotel / Guest House in Oudtshoorn.
CONSERVATION FEE INCLUDED
Guide
Transport to the Sartberg Pass from Oudtshoorn guesthouse
Under 12 years children rates apply. GROUP RATES apply automatically for groups of 4 and more.
This was an absolutely fantastic tour. Communication before the day itself was great and Lynette was super flexible given that the forecast for the morning was less than good, so very kindly agreed to start the tour at 7.30 (!!) rather than 9 to ensure we could make the most of our time with her before the rain set in. She was friendly, knowledgeable and great company. We really enjoyed ourselves from start to fnish. The scenery was just stunning; epic views and fascinating history as to how the pass came to be built. I really recommend this tour! - JULIA
Excellent few hours in a spectacular landscape Whilst the pass can be accessed by most vehicles, the ability to "sit back" and enjoy the views cannot be underestimated Our guide, Lynette Boshoff shared her knowledge of the area covering history as well as the flora and fauna willingly We included some walking on the pass which (again) would be difficult with one's own vehicle We adjusted times to suit our travel plans which made the tour and the rest of the day highly pleasurable Would recommend this tour to anyone - Melvyn
© 2024 Tornado Tour Systems (Pty) Ltd ta Activitar.
