Half-Day Swartberg Pass PRIVATE Tour (including lunch & transfer - Oudtshoorn)

Western Cape , South Africa

Half-Day Swartberg Pass PRIVATE Tour (including lunch & transfer - Oudtshoorn)

Active

(9 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Guided half-day Swartberg Pass eco-tour. The Swartberg Mountains is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Swartberg Pass is a National Monument (gravel road) and ascents 900m until you reach the summit. The tour includes a leisure walk on a Swartberg Mountain Trail with panoramic vistas over the Klein-and Great Karoo. You will also learn more about the conservation initiatives pioneered by the members of the H.O.P.E. Foundation. A light lunch is included after the tour.

Available options

Half-Day Swartberg Pass PRIVATE Tour (including lunch & transfer - Oudtshoorn)

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Lunch

Driver/guide

National Park Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

From your Hotel we travel North to the Southern foothills of the Swartberg Mountains. From here we commence our 900-meter scenic eco-tour up the world renowned Swartberg Pass. At the summit of the Swartberg Pass (1 580 meter above sea level) you will enjoy a scenic walk on this National monument.

The Pass has a gravel surface and was constructed by renowned road engineer, Thomas Bain over a 4-year period and opened on 10 January 1888. From the “top” of the Swartberg Pass you will enjoy picture perfect panoramic views over the Klein- and Great Karoo. The dry-stone technique used to construct the pass required extreme manual labour and is as solid as it was when constructed 127 years ago.

You can enjoy an optional scenic walk on a hiking trail exploring the spectacular Sandstone formations dating back more than 300 million years. Feasting your eyes on the full splendor of diverse “fynbos” species ranging from various protea species as well as “cone bush” and “pin cushions” will accentuate he need for conservation of our natural resources and habitats. You may even spot a soaring Verreaux Eagle, Jackal Buzzard or any of the many species of Sunbirds feasting on the nectar of the proteas. The agility of the “Klipspringer” (small antelope) over the rugged sandstone formations will astound you.

The tranquility and serenity of this unique experience reflects the essence of a bygone era where wagons and riders on horseback was a familiar sight.
At the summit (“Die Top”) of the Swartberg Pass we learn about the Social and conservation initiatives pioneered by the members of the H.O.P.E. Foundation. At 1 350m above mean sea level we enjoy a leisure walk on the Pass before we return towards Oudtshoorn for lunch.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

A moderate amount of optional walking is involved

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• IMPORTANT: You must call +27 82 461 8253 or +27 44 272 0700 at least 48 hours in advance to to confirm your pick-up location and time.

About Western Cape

The Western Cape is a stunning province in South Africa known for its diverse landscapes, from the rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean to the picturesque vineyards of the Winelands. It's a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering everything from vibrant cities to serene countryside.

Top Attractions

Table Mountain

An iconic flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town, offering stunning views and hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day R380 (Cableway return ticket)

Robben Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Offers a poignant glimpse into South Africa's apartheid history.

Historical Half day R500 (Including ferry and tour)

Cape of Good Hope

The southwesternmost point of the African continent, known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic beauty.

Nature Full day R340 (Entry fee)

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

A stunning botanical garden showcasing the diverse flora of South Africa, set against the backdrop of Table Mountain.

Nature Half day to full day R90 (Entry fee)

Stellenbosch

A charming university town known for its Cape Dutch architecture, wine estates, and vibrant student life.

Cultural Full day Varies by activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originally from Durban but popular throughout South Africa.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains gluten

Biltong

Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from beef, game, or other meats.

Snack Contains meat, gluten-free

Cape Malay Curry

A spicy curry made with meat or vegetables, influenced by Malay culture.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains spices

Malva Pudding

A sweet, spongy pudding served with custard or ice cream.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Paragliding Shark cage diving Mountain biking Beach lounging Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic drives

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the summer season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for tourists.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English
Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

The Western Cape is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Avoid walking alone at night in less safe areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Cape Town Station

By bus

Cape Town Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with routes covering most of the city and nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cape Town City Center Camps Bay Bo-Kaap Hout Bay Constantia

Day trips

Stellenbosch

50 km from Cape Town • Full day

A charming university town known for its Cape Dutch architecture, wine estates, and vibrant student life.

Franschhoek

75 km from Cape Town • Full day

A picturesque town in the Winelands, known for its French Huguenot heritage, wine estates, and gourmet restaurants.

Hermanus

120 km from Cape Town • Full day

A coastal town known for its whale watching, scenic beaches, and wine estates.

Festivals

Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March Cape Town Carnival • March Cape Winelands Festival • December

Pro tips

Visit Table Mountain early in the morning to avoid crowds and clouds
Book tickets for popular attractions, such as Robben Island and the Cape Town Cableway, in advance
Explore the region by car for flexibility and to discover hidden gems
Try local dishes, such as bunny chow and Cape Malay curry, for an authentic culinary experience
Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites