Scenic Routes- Long Tom Pass

Lydenburg- Activities

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This spectacular pass is located on the R37 between Lydenburg (Mashishing) and Sabie and holds some the Kruger Lowveld’s most majestic views across the escarpment on a clear day.

At just over 26km long, the pass is characterized by rich vegetation and eucalyptus and pine trees for as far as the eye can see. There are 66 bends, corners and curves and undeniably breathtaking views. The pass is named after the Long Tom Cannon (a replica of which can be seen at Devil’s Knuckles, 22km from Sabie and 34km from Lydenburg/Mashishing), a huge field gun operated by the Boers in the South African War and feared by the British generals and their brigades. The gun was used to great effect during the war and the pass was so named 50 years after the end of the war.

The road is also significant as it follows the old trade route of waggoneers of the 1800s who travelled to and from Lourenço Marques (now Maputo). Tarred in the 1960s, the scenic route offers travellers many view points and laybys from which to enjoy exceptional views. The highest point of the pass sits at 2150m above sea level.

Make a stop at the Long Tom Cannon which is a replica of a Creusot siege cannon and marks the spot where in September 1900, two of these cannons were use for the last time by the Boer commandos against the British army.