Spectacular Mountain Passes of the Cape Fold Mountains, South Africa

South Africa’s Western Cape is a dream destination for riders who love curves, climbs, and wide-open views. Winding through the Cape Fold Mountains, these roads connect coastlines, vineyards, and desert plains, offering some of the most rewarding riding in the world.

From the iconic tarred sweepers of Chapman’s Peak Drive to the rugged gravel of Swartberg Pass, each route tells its own story. Whether you ride a mid-weight ADV bike or a full touring machine, these passes will test your skill and fuel your spirit.

Afternoon light spills across Tradouw Pass in South Africa’s Western Cape - one of the most scenic routes through the Cape Fold Mountains.

The Cape Fold Mountains – A Rider’s Playground

Formed over 200 million years ago, the Cape Fold range stretches across the southern edge of Africa. Its layered ridges, winding valleys, and dramatic peaks have given rise to some of the most beautiful and challenging mountain roads anywhere in the world.

For motorcycle riders, it’s a playground of contrasts, from smooth tarmac to technical gravel, sweeping corners, and high passes that open up into endless skies.

Adventure riders taking in the views from Chapman’s Peak Drive. The most famous coastal pass in South Africa and a gateway to the Cape Fold Mountains.

Top Mountain Passes of the Cape Fold Mountains in South Africa

Here’s a list of officially recognised mountain passes across the Western Cape. From coastal climbs near Cape Town to high-altitude gravel routes deep in the Karoo.

Pass	Surface	Altitude (m)	Distance	Highlights
Bain’s Kloof Pass	Tar	594	18km / 11mi	One of South Africa’s oldest passes with dramatic canyons
Chapman’s Peak Drive	Tar	160	9km / 6mi	Iconic coastal route above the Atlantic with tunnels and ocean views
De Vlugt Pass	Mixed	610	12km / 7mi	Forested route connecting Knysna and the Little Karoo
Du Toitskloof Pass	Tar	820	11km / 7mi	Historic tunnels, waterfalls, and sweeping bends
Franschhoek Pass	Tar	742	14km / 9mi	Tight switchbacks, vineyards, and panoramic views
Garcia’s Pass	Tar	548	11km / 7mi	Rolling fynbos landscapes and smooth corners
Gydo Pass	Tar	1,117	11km / 7mi	Climbs from Ceres into the highlands with wide views
Helshoogte Pass	Tar	400	7km / 4mi	Smooth, scenic link between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
Katbakkies Pass	Gravel	1,200	17km / 11mi	Rugged, remote gravel climb with endless horizons
Meiringspoort Pass	Tar	630	25km / 16mi	Winding sandstone gorge with river crossings near De Rust
Michell’s Pass	Tar	460	15km / 9mi	Historic Bain-built road linking Ceres and Wolseley
Outeniqua Pass	Tar	800	13km / 8mi	Coastal forests, misty mornings, and flowing bends
Ou Kaapse Weg (Silvermine Pass)	Tar	315	10km / 6mi	Scenic climb through Silvermine Nature Reserve linking Tokai and Noordhoek
Pakhuis Pass	Mixed	905	25km / 16mi	Cederberg rock formations and wide Karoo vistas
Prince Alfred’s Pass	Mixed	1,035	68km / 42mi	Thomas Bain’s masterpiece linking Knysna and Uniondale
Seweweekspoort Pass	Gravel	1,000	17km / 11mi	Towering sandstone cliffs and remote wilderness
Swartberg Pass	Gravel	1,583	27km / 17mi	Highest altitude pass in the Western Cape with steep gravel switchbacks
Theronsberg Pass	Tar	1,350	11km / 7mi	Gateway from Ceres into the Koue Bokkeveld with mountain views
Tradouw Pass	Tar	750	13km / 8mi	Lush valleys, waterfalls, and sandstone cliffs

Adventure riders breeze through Cogmanskloof Pass, between Ashton and Montagu. The old stone fort, a relic of the Anglo-Boer War, still watches over the cape fold mountains.

Why the Cape Fold Mountains Are Perfect for Motorcyclists

The Western Cape’s mountain passes are more than just roads. They’re journeys through time and terrain, where the landscape changes around every corner.

• Tar and gravel variety lets you choose your adventure

• Year-round riding conditions make it easy to plan your trip any season

• Scenic diversity ranges from ocean views to desert plains, sometimes in a single ride

  
  

Whether you’re based in Cape Town or visiting from abroad, few regions offer such a complete mix of riding, scenery, and accessibility. Adventure motorcyclists visiting South Africa will find that the Cape Fold mountain passes South Africa are some of the most scenic and rewarding roads on the continent.

And let’s not forget the Karoo. The semi-desert heartland that completes the Sea, Berg, Karoo story of Southern Africa, offering endless gravel roads, big skies, and true adventure riding terrain.

Riders traverse Blinkberg Pass in the heart of the Cederberg - a remote gravel climb carved through towering sandstone peaks of the Cape Fold Mountains.

Other Iconic Mountain Passes in South Africa

Beyond the Western Cape, South Africa’s vast landscape is filled with high-altitude climbs and legendary gravel routes that every rider should experience at least once.

Pass	Surface	Altitude (m)	Distance	Highlights
Baboons Pass (Lesotho)	Gravel / Rock	2,689	26km / 16mi	Extremely challenging 4x4 and ADV route, known as one of Africa’s toughest rides
Baviaanskloof Pass (Eastern Cape)	Gravel	1,000	24km / 15mi	Remote wilderness route through the Baviaanskloof Reserve, a must for serious ADV riders
Naude’s Nek Pass (Eastern Cape)	Gravel	2,590	32km / 20mi	Rugged, scenic, and one of the highest public passes in South Africa
Sani Pass (KwaZulu-Natal / Lesotho)	Gravel	2,873	9km / 6mi	South Africa’s most famous high-altitude climb into Lesotho

These routes show just how diverse South Africa’s riding landscape is, from the high escarpments of the Drakensberg to the red rock folds of the Cape.

Rider Tips for Exploring the Passes

• Fuel up often: Some remote passes have limited fuel stops

• Check conditions: Heavy rain can make gravel sections tricky

• Pack layers: Weather changes quickly between coasts and mountains

• Respect local wildlife: Baboons and antelope often wander across roads

Ready to Ride?

The Cape Fold Mountains are calling. Whether you want to hit gravel on your own bike or join an organized adventure, we’ve mapped out the routes, gear, and support to make it happen. Join the Pangea Rally and experience South Africa's most epic passes.

View 2026 Pangea Rally Packages

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to ride the Cape Fold Mountains?

The best riding conditions are from September to May. Summer brings warm weather and clear skies, while spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures and beautiful landscapes.

Do I need an adventure bike for these passes?

Most major passes are paved, but if you plan to explore gravel routes like Swartberg, Seweweekspoort, or Blinkberg, a mid-weight adventure bike is ideal. At the very least, bring something with nobly tyres.

Are the passes safe for solo riders?

Yes, but always plan your route, carry offline maps or a GPS, and check local weather before heading out. A satellite communicator is recommended in remote areas like the Cederberg.

Can I rent a bike in South Africa?

Yes. Several local rental companies offer bikes ranging from the Honda CRF300 to the BMW GS1300 Adventure. Insurance excess and gear are usually excluded.