Bothasnek Pass

Afrikaans name: Bothasnekpas

Bothasnek Pass

Photo © Steven Herbert

Bothasnek Pass is located on the R38, in Mpumalanga, between Badplaas and Barberton. It is approximately 12 km in length.

The pass climbs from 853 metres above sea-level, on the Barberton side, to 1,441 metres above sea-level, making it a climb of 548 metres. It is around 12 km in length.

The road is tarred and is in good condition. There are a couple of places where one can stop and take in the amazing views. My favourite time to travel the pass is when the aloes are in bloom which is normally between April and July.

Who was Botha and why is this pass named after him or her? Well, that is a mystery and the details seem to have got lost in the misty conditions that one sometimes encounters along this road.

Have you travelled along Bothasnek Pass?

Bothasnek Pass scenery

Photo © Steven Herbert

Bothasnek Pass

Photo © Steven Herbert

References and further reading

Mountain Passes South Africa - Bothasnek Pass

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