About Otto Du Plessis Pass
Whilst still on the tar road between Lady Grey and the Clifford turn-off it is possible to see part of the unique railway linking Barkly East with Lady Grey to the northwest.
Did you know? It is rumoured that on a clear day it is possible to see the Indian Ocean. This may be a dubious claim, but there is no doubt at all that the vistas are far reaching and spectacular.
Owing to the mountainous terrain, a system of eight ‘reverses’ was incorporated into the line, which has a gradient of 1 in 36, one of only two such systems in the world. The Class 19D steam locomotive that stands in Barkly East’s square is a reminder of the early days of rail transport.
From the Clifford turn-off the road ascents steadily through farmland until reaching the summit of the Otto Du Plessis pass. This point has panoramic views from the top of the Drakensberg escarpment over the Tsomo valley.
As the Otto du Plessis pass descends to Ida it winds through sandstone gorges, forests, farmlands and across rivers in a breathtaking mountain wilderness.
This variety of habitat means that Otto Du Plessis is one of the best birding passes in the area, so keep your eyes open for mountain ‘specials’ that include Drakensberg Rock-jumpers, Ground Woodpeckers and a variety of siskins.
Need to Know
WhereOtto Du Plessis Pass, Between Ida and Clifford, Northern Ukhahlama, Eastern Cape, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours.
OvernightStay in Eastern Cape Highlands Accommodation, Eastern Cape
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested in
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Eastern Cape Highlands
DeKat Self Catering
Situated in Burgersdorp, DeKat Accommodation offers two units which have private patios, DStv, self catering facilities and secure parking. The u...
Branksome Country House
Branksome Country House is situated on Branksome Farm, a working farm in the Southern Drakensberg. This is the perfect place to visit if you are ...
Kinmel Guest Farm
A holiday farm for all seasons! Summer splendour of cascading waterfalls and lush green mountain sides in contrast with the magnificent colours ...
Silo Cottage
Silo Cottage offers accommodation in Lady Grey at Lupela Lodge Farm. This charming building was used as a grain store before being converted into...
JAK Strydom Buffalo Lodge
The JAK Strydom Private Nature Reserve is situated 10km from Aliwal North on the banks of the Orange River. The lodge can accommodate up to 20 pe...
JAK Strydom Bontebok Lodge
JAK Strydom Bontebok Lodge offers accommodation in Aliwal North at JAK Strydom Private Nature Reserve. This exclusive malaria-free reserve offers...
Reedsdell Country Guest Farm
Set in the picturesque Witteberg mountain range, the southwestern spur of the Drakensberg, 1100 ha of pristine mountain terrain and crystal clear...
Karoo Nights
Karoo Nights offers bed & breakfast and self catering accommodation on a working farm in Venterstad. Choose from 12 comfortable en-suite rooms (b...
Walkerbouts Inn
Walkerbouts Inn is a spacious haven with comfortable en-suite accommodation, fine country cuisine and hospitality in the best traditions of the "...
Accommodation convenient to Otto Du Plessis Pass
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Eastern Cape Accommodation / Eastern Cape Highlands Accommodation