History of Sani Top

The Sani Pass was opened in 1948 and it was Godfrey Edmons who arrived at Sani Top for the first time by vehicle. It took three hours and thirty five minutes to reach the border post and a further two and a quarter hours to reach the top. The equipment required for this epic feat included, a Basuto labour gang, with their ponies, a chain pulley block, jerry cans of petrol and lots of rope.

It must be remembered that the bridle path was used as a route for trade between South Africa and Mokhotlong during this period. All goods were carried by pack mule.

Today is a lot different, 4x4's regularly travel Sani Pass and the road has been improved so much that a standard bakkie should be able to make the trip, provided the weather is good. The icy layer covering the road in winter can be especially treacherous, evoking feelings of apprehension within drivers.

Skiing and Snow Boarding at Sani Top

For the adventurous skier or snow boarder a good oppertunity presents itself in winter when Sani Top is covered in powdery snow.  In Winter there are adventurous skiing opportunities although snow is never guaranteed. The "First Chair" at Black Mountain, Sani Top is a 300m or so ski run which is interrupted by the road. This is the most accessible of the runs above the road but only fills after a good dump. Collect at the bottom and drive to the top; hence it's dubbed the first chairlift run.Watch the Weather. Like in any mountains, the weather closes in fast. Leave Sani Top by three to make sure you hit the bottom before the gates are chained at 4:00pm. Lousy weather in the pass or a 10 tonner stuck on a hairpin could mean you're going to overnight at Sani Top.

Accommodation at Sani Top

• Sani Top Chalet - Accommodation at the top of Sani Pass Sani Top Chalet offers two types of accommodation, with rooms inside the main building as well as a dormitory style backpackers. All rooms are comfortable made up with extra bedding for the cold winter nights