Ouberg Pass - nr Sutherland, Northern Cape

The Ouberg Pass near Sutherland in the Northern Cape is a rugged and scenic mountain pass that offers breathtaking views and a thrilling driving experience for adventurers. The pass connects the town of Sutherland with the Tankwa Karoo and descends from the high Roggeveld Plateau into the expansive plains of the Karoo. At an elevation of around 1,400 meters, it provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding arid landscape, showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Karoo region.

The Ouberg Pass is an unpaved, gravel road that stretches for about 10 kilometers, and it can be challenging to navigate, especially in wet weather. The steep gradients and sharp turns require careful driving, making it suitable for 4x4 vehicles or high-clearance vehicles. Despite the rough terrain, the journey is incredibly rewarding, with visitors treated to starkly beautiful views, including the characteristic dry riverbeds, rocky outcrops, and unique desert vegetation of the Karoo. The pass also provides access to several hiking trails and viewpoints, where visitors can appreciate the solitude and vastness of the region.

Due to its isolation and remoteness, the Ouberg Pass is rarely crowded, offering a sense of tranquility and adventure for those who love exploring off the beaten path. It is also a great place for stargazing, as it is located near Sutherland, which is famous for its clear night skies and astronomical observatories, such as the South African Astronomical Observatory (SALT).

The Ouberg Pass was one of the first routes used by the pioneer farmers, from the Ceres Karoo to the Roggeveld and then on to Sutherland. Once a year the farmers would pack up all their belongings including their livestock and "trek" down this pass to the warmer Karoo farms. The weather was too cold higher up and detrimental to the animals. Most farmers still "trek" down to the Karoo once a year to avoid the extreme winter conditions. Ox Wagons were the only means of transport in those days and the "trek" took anything up to four days to complete. Since then, things have been made easier. The Sutherland community and the Fish River Farmers Union helped finance the building project of a new road. It was completed in 1969.

While the Ouberg Pass is an adventurous route, it’s important to check road conditions before traveling, as weather can make the pass more dangerous, particularly after heavy rains or snow during winter months.

Travel Tips:
Best suited for 4x4 vehicles or high-clearance cars.
Carry sufficient water, fuel, and food as services are limited.
Check weather and road conditions before setting out.

The Ouberg Pass is a fantastic choice for those seeking adventure and natural beauty in the heart of the Northern Cape’s rugged terrain.