Discover the Exhilarating Magoebaskloof Pass

Imagine cruising through a stretch of road that feels like a wild roller coaster ride. That’s exactly what you’ll experience on the magnificent Magoebaskloof Pass, nestled between Tzaneen and Haenertsburg. This thrilling route isn’t just for drivers, but for adventurous motorbike enthusiasts as well.

Spanning 6.5 kilometers and ascending a staggering 558 meters, the Magoebaskloof Pass is an awe-inspiring journey. As you wind your way through this S-bends and hairpins-laden road, you’ll be captivated by the surrounding scenery. The pass is adorned with magnificent pine and eucalyptus plantations, with occasional glimpses of lush green valleys and the remarkable Afromontane forests – the largest in South Africa, second only to the iconic Garden Route.

If you want to explore a beautiful area with a cool climate, Haenertsburg is the perfect place for you. Start your day with a scenic drive down the pass, surrounded by mist that adds to the mystical atmosphere. Make a stop at the charming Wheelbarrow Farm Stall for a delicious brunch. Once you’re fueled up, head back up the pass, now bathed in warm sunshine. Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the stunning views from the two lookout points along the way.

What awaits you on the Magoebaskloof Pass?

As you drive along the R71 road from Tzaneen, you’ll be greeted by the picturesque Magoebaskloof Valley. The first 13 kilometers of the road will take you through avocado orchards and tea plantations. As you continue, you’ll see the Magoebaskloof Dam, where the dark green pine trees are reflected in its tranquil waters. Keep an eye out for the “beware of the hippo” signs – they’re there for a reason, as crocodiles also call these waters their home.

When you see mist and fog warning signs, that means you’ve reached the beginning of the pass after crossing a small stream and going uphill. Don’t worry about getting stuck behind slow timber trucks for too long because there are passing lanes along the way. As you start your ascent, you’ll come across the first S-bend followed by a hairpin turn. At this point, you’ll also find a picnic site with benches and tables covered in lush green moss.

Moving forward, you’ll encounter a long horseshoe bend, and then a short straight road stretch that takes you to Magoebaskloof Ruskamp. The restaurant here offers a deck with a beautiful view of the switchbacks winding through the dense foliage below.

At the second picnic site, you’ll notice a historic metal sign from the old pass, reminding you of the first hairpin turn many meters below. As you continue on, there’s another long S-bend that leads you to the top of the pass. Not too far from here, you’ll find the turn-off to Woodbush Forest. From this point until you reach Haenertsburg, the landscape rolls gently, passing by plantations and shimmering lakes.

Building the Magoebaskloof Pass

Hey there! So, after the Anglo-Boer War, they decided to create a new road down the Magoebaskloof Mountains. They basically took a bridle path that was already being used by woodcutters through Woodbush Forest and turned it into a proper route. The construction started going really well, but then something interesting happened in 1915. The workers just stopped working! Can you believe it? They downed tools because they didn’t want to cut down what they called “God’s trees”. They had a point! The authorities had to do something, so they changed the route to save those precious trees. Smart move, right? It turns out that Chief Mamphoku Makgoba, a powerful Tlou chief, was buried somewhere in the area after he was defeated in 1895. They say his spirit still wanders the mountains around the pass. Pretty spooky, if you ask me. And that’s why they named it after him, or at least a version of his name.

Making the most of the Magoebaskloof Pass

When I think of a drive along Magoebaskloof Pass, I can’t help but get excited about all the outdoor adventure waiting for me in Woodbush Forest. There’s so much to do here, from mountain biking to hiking, bird-watching to fly-fishing. It’s a nature lover’s paradise!

But that’s not all. This area is also famous for its stunning show gardens. Spring is the perfect time to visit, with azaleas and cherries in full bloom. And in autumn, the deciduous foliage turns the landscape into a vibrant canvas of red and orange. It’s truly a sight to behold.

If you’re feeling peckish, you can picnic by Debengeni Falls on the Politsi River. Or, if you prefer a sit-down meal, there are plenty of restaurants in the area to choose from. One of my personal favorites is Sandford Heights Nursery and Tea Garden. They serve light lunches and their fluffy waffles are to die for. And if you’re in the mood for some fresh trout and a refreshing iced tea, you can’t go wrong with The Red Plate.

I bet you’re wondering where to stay in the Magoebaskloof area, right?

Take a weekend trip to Magoebaskloof and discover all the amazing places to stay in the Haenertsburg area. Check out our top picks below:

1. Kuhestan Organic Farm Cottages

– Price: Self-catering from R550 per person sharing.

– Website: www.kuhestan.co.za

2. Cheerio Trout Fishing & Holiday Resort

– Price: Cottages from R400 to R1,400 per night.

– Website: www.cheerio.co.za

– Book a stay here.

3. Sequoia Gardens

– Price: Units from R400 to R1,400 per night.

– Website: sequoiagardens.wordpress.com

4. The Pennefather

– Price: Self-catering from R330 per person per night sharing.

– Website: www.thepennefather.co.za

– Book a stay here.

5. Magoebaskloof Hotel