Attakwaskloof Pass

Garden Route Tourist AttractionsAttakwaskloof Pass

The Attakwaskloof Pass lies in the heart of the Outeniqua Mountains, a gravel off-road between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn. Whilst seldom used - as there is a new and more modern tarred alternative - the Attakwaskloof Pass is old and hence filled with wonderful historic relics like block houses, a toll house and natural scenery that those who use it, particularly 4x4 enthusiasts, advocate is worth every inch of its 10 kilometre distance.

There's also a mountain bike challenge that uses the Attakwaskloof as its domain, the MTN Attakwas Extreme Mountain bike 121 km Challenge and the Nissan Attakwas Mini Mountain bike ride, which is shorter at around 52 km.

The Attakwaskloof Pass is awash with proteas, waboom, ericas and other fynbos. It exists because of the need to link the interior with the coast after the arrival of settlers at the Cape. The first crossing of the mountains over the Attakwaskloof was documented as early as 1689 and was used by elephants until the official pass, linking the area around Mossel Bay with Kannaland, was built.

Hence the Attakwaskloof Pass is over 300 years old and was of vital importance to those who trekked inland from the coast for 150 years. Its 10 kilometres take one through some pretty incredible scenery, natural rock formations, and past historical buildings that leave a real sense of history to the place.

The Attakwaskloof hiking trail starts at the top of the Robinson Pass, the pass that was built later and which became more popular to use, resulting in the Attakwaskloof Pass falling into some disrepair (it is in better shape today). The hiking trail is spectacular, passing through incredible plant life, past natural rock pools and through an area that is left largely alone. Whilst not very clearly marked, and a fairly difficult hike, those who have done it regard it as one of the best.

Garden Route Passes