From the southern foothills we start our ascent of nearly 950 metres up the Swartberg via the world-renowned Swartberg Pass. This gravel pass, a national monument, was constructed by renowned road engineer Thomas Bain over four years and opened in January 1888.

At the summit (“Die Top”) of the Swartberg Pass, we enjoy a panoramic views over the Great and Little Karoo. Your guide will also inform you of the social and conservation initiatives pioneered by the members of the H.O.P.E. Foundation.

You can also enjoy an optional leisure walk on the Pass. From the "Top" we descend the Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert, where we are treated to a light lunch.

Departing from Prince Albert, you will be introduced to the arid Great Karoo landscape and its diverse succulents and karroid bush as you skirt the northern slopes of the Swartberg Mountains on the path to Meiringspoort. You will spend some time at the 60-metre-high waterfall in Meiringspoort, before winding your way through the rest of the “poort” (narrow mountain pass) to the peaceful Little Karoo village of De Rust.