On 27 February 2008 the Silver Spirit Adventure team tested the Rolls Royce over Africa’s highest pass, the Sani Pass, which runs from KwaZulu in South Africa to the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. The route is appropriately called the ‘Roof of Africa’.

Only 4x4 vehicles are allowed to cross the Sani Pass, unless special permission is granted by the Commissioner. This was gained and the test was on!

The Sani Pass is claimed to be the highest road in Africa and the third highest in the world, peaking at 3 200m above sea level. Close to the Sani Pass summit is the highest peak in Southern Africa, Thabane Ntlenyana, at 3482m. At the top is the highest pub in Africa, a welcome site for visitors.

Before the climb the team met at the Magnificent Moorcroft Manor with the Sani Pass Tours Crew for a briefing session. These guys are often called to rescue broken down 4x4s and trucks. Mike explained that this was merely a test for a full trans-Africa trip. The skeptics in the crew started to believe when they inspected the Rolls, and the modifications done by Emgee.

The night before the trial the heavens opened and the Pass had some of the worst rain in years. The road (track) was more like a river. Undaunted, the team set off.

The Recovery Team were called upon only to watch and advise while the Rolls
performed the climb with few problems. In fact, one of the 4x4’s had to be rescued while the Silver Spirit cruised on. Interviewed at the top, the ‘Recovery’ Team confirmed that if the Rolls could handle Sani Pass with such aplomb, there should be no obstacles that Africa can throw at her which might slow her down.

Sani Pass Trial on YouTube - Click on "Play Button" below
Silver Spirit Adventure