Abel Erasmus Pass

Afrikaans name: Abel Erasmuspas

Abel Erasmus Pass

Photo © Johan van Zyl

The Abel Erasmus Pass connects the highlands of Mpumalanga province with the lowveld of the Limpopo province. The pass is an engineering marvel and it has 62 bends of varying severity. The pass is 24 km in length and the change in altitude is 737 metres. It was officially opened on the 8th May 1959.

One of the highlights of this pass is the JG Strijdom Tunnel which is 133 metres in length. There is a view site at the entrance to the tunnel.

The scenery along the route is spectacular. If you are "lucky" enough to get caught behind a slow-moving truck just relax and enjoy the view.

Have you driven along this pass? What is it like?

Abel Erasmus Pass

Photo © Johan van Zyl

References and further reading

Southern African Birdfinder - Author: Cohen, Spottiswoode and Rossouw - Published: 2006 - Page: 177

Southern Africa from the Highway - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1991 - Page: 36

Readers Digest Illustrated Guide to Southern Africa - 4th edition - Author: - Published: 1986 - Page: 248

Places to Visit in Southern Africa - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1995 - Page: 86

On Route - Explore South Africa region by region - 3rd edition - Author: B.P.J. Erasmus - Published: 2014 - Page: 290

On Route - A region by region guide to South Africa - Author: B.P.J. Erasmus - Published: 1995 - Page: 182

Country Life - Issue 250 - Author: - Published: 2017 - Page: 33

Conollys Guide to Southern Africa - 2nd edition - Author: Denis Conolly - Published: 1982 - Page: 321

Mountain Passes South Africa - Abel Erasmus Pass

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