The African Voyager

Garden Route, South Africa

Seven Passes Road: the Garden Route’s scenic drive you must see

Southern Africa • Insider guides • Seven Passes Road: the Garden Route’s scenic drive you must see

Twists turns and timeless beauty: exploring the iconic Seven Passes Road

Winding its way through forests, rolling hills, flowing rivers and hand-built stone bridges that have stood the test of time, the Seven Passes Road is a journey back in time and into the core of South Africa’s Garden Route. Built by the legendary Thomas Bain in the 19th century, this historic road was once the primary route connecting George and Knysna. Today, it serves as a scenic alternative to the modern highways, offering a quieter, more intimate way to experience the area’s landscapes and heritage. This drive is a must for anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure!

What is the Seven Passes Road?

The Seven Passes Road is a historic mountain route in South Africa’s Garden Route region, designed and constructed by renowned road engineer Thomas Bain between 1867 and 1883. This 80-kilometre route traverses seven rivers, each with its own pass: Kaaimans, Silver River, Touw River, Hoogekraal, Karatara, Homtini and Phantom – hence the name. It served as the primary connection between George and Knysna before the development of the N2 highway. Today, it is both a functional route and a popular scenic route, showcasing the region’s natural landscapes and history.

Where does the Seven Passes Road start and end?

The Seven Passes Road stretches approximately 80 kilometres from George to Knysna. It begins near the Outeniqua Pass in George, a city known as the gateway to the Garden Route and ends at the lagoon-side town of Knysna, famous for its forests and oysters. Along the way, the road passes through key points such as Wilderness, Hoekwil and Rheenendal. The road’s accessibility makes it suitable for self-drives, with clear signage and regular pull-offs for enjoying the views or taking photos.

Which passes form part of the Seven Passes Road?

Kaaimansgat Pass

This pass marks the westernmost point of the route, offering panoramic views of the Kaaimans River Valley. The winding road and steep cliffs create an exhilarating drive, with the river flowing far below. It’s a prime spot for appreciating the raw beauty of the region.

Silver River Pass

A short but scenic stretch, this pass crosses the glistening Silver River. The Silver River Bridge, a historical stone bridge, is a reminder of the road’s historical significance and Bain’s masterful craftsmanship.

Touw River Pass

Touw River Pass runs through the thick forests of the Wilderness area, following the course of the Touw River. The pass offers beautiful views of the river and the dense, green vegetation that lines its banks. This is a good spot to catch sight of many bird species and other local wildlife.

Hoogekraal Pass

Hoogekraal Pass is a short 3-kilometre stretch with beautiful views along its narrow gravel road. It descends to and from the Hoogekraal River and ends just before the Geelhoutsvlei Timber Mill, a Garden Route location rooted in the history of the Knysna woodcutters.

Karatara Pass

Named after the Karatara River it crosses, this 2.6-kilometre pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys dotted with rural farmlands.

Homtini Pass

Homtini Pass features tight bends and narrow stretches, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and dense forests, offering a more adventurous drive. Homtini, meaning difficult passage in Khoi, reflects the challenges early travellers faced here.

Phantom Pass

The easternmost pass, Phantom Pass, named after the Phantom Moth, which is endemic to the area, is the final stretch of the Seven Passes Road. Offering sweeping views of Knysna’s lagoon and the surrounding hills, providing a magical end to the journey.

Can you take a guided tour or is it better to self-drive?

Ultimately it’s up to you and what your preferences are, but both options are available for this scenic drive. Self-driving offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace, stopping for photos, hikes or picnics as desired. Car rentals in the area are widely available, with compact cars suitable for the route, as well as SUVs for those planning to venture onto additional gravel roads.

Guided tours, on the other hand, provide expert insights into the road’s history, local flora and fauna and cultural significance. Tour guides often share fascinating stories and take you to hidden gems that may not be obvious to self-driving travellers. These tours are ideal if you want a deeper understanding of the area without worrying about navigation or driving.

Is it easy to drive the Seven Passes Road?

The Seven Passes Road is considered easy to moderate for drivers. Most of the road is gravel but well-maintained, making it accessible for standard vehicles, although drivers should exercise caution during wet weather when the surface can become slippery. The inclines are manageable and there are no extreme hairpin bends. 4×4 vehicles are only recommended if you plan on exploring the more off-the-beaten-path gravel side roads.
Remember to drive slowly to fully appreciate the scenery and be mindful of potential wildlife crossing the road. Pack snacks and water and download an offline map navigation, as mobile reception can be inconsistent along the route.

How long does it take to drive the Seven Passes Road?

Driving the full length of the Seven Passes Road without stopping takes about two to three hours. However, to truly enjoy the experience, you should plan for a full day. This allows for stops at picnic spots, short hikes and time to explore historical landmarks. Planning ahead with an itinerary can help ensure you don’t miss any highlights.