Introduction

Sani Top is located right on the border between Lesotho and South Africa, high in the Drakensberg Mountains.  We have included it in the South Africa section. 

As elsewhere in South Africa and Lesotho the snow, and therefore the skiing and snowboarding, is highly unpredictable.  When there is good snow at Sani Top it often means Sani Pass (the only access road) is ice bound and not altogether safe!  Chains are a must.

Sani Pass with Black Mountain in the background

Facilities and Services

Sani Top is not a 'resort' as such and is much more a destination for the adventurous skier or boarder.  The snow is never guaranteed but when there is powder it can be great. There is a 'First Chair' at Black Mountain, which gives access to a 300m or so ski run (which is interrupted by the road).  This is the most accessible of the runs.  Essentially you can ski where you want but the weather can be really variable so you need to be careful not to get stuck there.

If you do need to stay over (intentionally or unintentionally!), the Sani Top Chalet (actually in Lesotho) caters for groups and families with fireplaces and en-suite facilities in purpose built randavaals. There is also accommodation in the Chalet itself and additional backpackers accommodation available in a nearby village.  Costs range from R375 to R100.  You can also hike to Lesotho's highest peak, Thabana-Ntlenyana (3,482m) from the Chalet.

Sani Top Chalet Randavaals

Travel

The only route up to the chalet from the South African side is the Sani Pass which requires a 4x4.