Travel Alert: Sani Pass closed until further notice due to heavy snowfall

The famous Sani Pass—the sole road link connecting South Africa and Lesotho over the Drakensberg escarpment in KwaZulu-Natal—has been closed to all traffic effective immediately. This closure follows severe winter weather conditions and heavy snowfall on the Lesotho side of the mountain route.

Current conditions and safety advisory

Due to significant snow accumulation and icy road surfaces, travel through the pass has been deemed highly hazardous.

• Vehicle restrictions: The closure applies to all vehicles, including 4x4s and overland transport.
• Travel  advice: Motorists and travellers intending to cross the border via this route are strictly advised to postpone their trips. Do not attempt to approach the pass until authorities officially declare the route safe for transit.

KwaZulu-Natal on the Sani Pass Lesotho Border Post

Pics: @kzncogta pic.twitter.com/fmKJHqrkog

— Nhlanhla Mabaso (@_NMabaso) June 5, 2026

Government response and monitoring

According to Senzelwe Mzila, spokesperson for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), provincial disaster management teams have been deployed to the area. These units are currently assessing the severity of the snow blockage, monitoring regional weather patterns, and standing by to provide emergency assistance to any stranded travellers as required.

Key takeaways for travellers

• Check border status: The Sani Pass port of entry operations are affected by this closure. Ensure you verify border accessibility before undertaking any travel toward the area.
• Monitor updates: Road clearance operations will depend entirely on weather conditions on the upper escarpment. Monitor official COGTA communications or local KwaZulu-Natal traffic updates for reopening announcements.
• Alternative routes: Consider utilizing alternative, low-altitude border posts (such as Ficksburg Bridge or Caledonspoort) to travel between South Africa and Lesotho, though these should also be checked for localized weather disruptions.

 

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