Long Tom Pass - Image 1
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Long Tom Pass

4.4
·80 reviews·, South Africa

A breathtaking mountain pass in Mpumalanga, offering scenic drives, historical sites, and the thrilling Long Tom Toboggan.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Clearer views, safer driving

CrowdMedium
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Long Tom Pass - Image 1

Long Tom Pass

Best Time

Daytime

Clearer views, safer driving

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking mountain pass in Mpumalanga, offering scenic drives, historical sites, and the thrilling Long Tom Toboggan.

4.4
(80 reviews)

"Awe-inspiringly beautiful sights and viewpoints, the most beautiful Pass I drove on in South Africa."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Scenic Drive Safety

Drive during daylight for best views & safety. Be aware of winding roads & potential mist. :car:

🎢 Book Toboggan Ahead

The Long Tom Toboggan is popular! Book tickets in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Long Tom Toboggan

Long Tom Toboggan

Misty Mountain

Africa's longest toboggan run! Experience a thrilling 1.7km ride with speeds up to 45km/h through beautiful scenery.

TikTokInstagram
Panoramic Viewpoints

Panoramic Viewpoints

Various lookout points along the R37

Stop at designated viewpoints for awe-inspiring vistas of lush valleys and dramatic mountain ranges.

Instagram+1
Historical Long Tom Cannon

Historical Long Tom Cannon

Near the pass summit

See the historic Long Tom cannon, a relic from the Anglo-Boer War, strategically placed for its commanding views.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic Drive

Long Tom Pass offers breathtaking views, but be prepared for winding roads and potential mist, especially in the afternoons. Plan your drive during daylight hours for the best experience and safety. Instagram+1

Adventure Awaits at Misty Mountain

The Long Tom Toboggan is a major draw! Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. It's a thrilling 1.7km ride through stunning landscapes. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Clearer views, safer driving
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter mornings
Why
Chance of magical snowfall
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Long Tom Toboggan 🏕 📍Misty Mountain, Long Tom Pass, Mpumalanga Experience the thrill of a 1.7km toboggan run! 🎢 @brumilda_monique took on the Long Tom Toboggan, reaching speeds of up to 45km/h! 😱 This incredible ride winds through breathtaking landscapes, offering stunning views of the Long Tom Pass. 🌲🌼 #MzansiDaily #LongTomToboggan #MistyMountain #Mpumalanga #AdventureSA #Toboggan #SouthAfr...
mzansi.daily
0 likes • 5.1K views

🚗 Scenic Drive Safety

Drive during daylight for best views & safety. Be aware of winding roads & potential mist. Instagram+1 :car:

🎢 Book Toboggan Ahead

The Long Tom Toboggan is popular! Book tickets in advance to secure your spot. TikTokInstagram :ticket:

Today at 12:47 on the Long Tom Pass between Lydenburg and Sabie. Before you Overtake - Ask: Is it Legal? Is it Safe? Is it Necessary? tinyurl.com/yxro9xcy #ArriveAlive #RoadSafety @TrafficRTMC @Dotransport @SANRAL_za @SAPoliceService
arrivealive.co.za
8.1K likes • 2.3M views
South Africa has it ALL ❤️🇿🇦 🎥 @angela.in.sa #southafrica #ilovesouthafrica #hikingadventures #mountains #longtompass #southafricantravel #snowfall #mpumalanga #snowsouthafrica
i.love.southafrica
1.2K likes • 27.7K views

🧥 Mist & Weather

Misty Mountain can get misty, especially afternoons/evenings. Pack layers! Reddit :cloud:

📸 Capture the Views

Stop at numerous lookout points for stunning photos of the Mpumalanga landscape. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Looking for a scenic drive in Mpumalanga? This is the one! With expansive views of lush greenery and rolling hills, Long Tom Drive winds beautifully through nature’s stunning landscapes. 📍Long Tom Pass, Mpumalanga 🇿🇦. 🎥 @livewithphumz Follow @bestoflocalsa for more across the country and tag us to be featured 🇿🇦.
bestoflocalsa
179 likes • 20.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Scenic Drive Safety

Drive during daylight for best views & safety. Be aware of winding roads & potential mist. Instagram+1 :car:

🎢 Book Toboggan Ahead

The Long Tom Toboggan is popular! Book tickets in advance to secure your spot. TikTokInstagram :ticket:

🧥 Mist & Weather

Misty Mountain can get misty, especially afternoons/evenings. Pack layers! Reddit :cloud:

📸 Capture the Views

Stop at numerous lookout points for stunning photos of the Mpumalanga landscape. Instagram :camerawithflash:

❄️ Snowfall Surprise

Winter can bring unexpected, magical snowfall! Check forecasts if you're hoping for a winter wonderland. Instagram+1 :snowflake:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(80 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenic beauty and the thrilling Long Tom Toboggan. The historical significance of the Long Tom cannon adds another layer of interest. While the winding roads and occasional mist are part of the experience, most find the drive and views spectacular and well worth the visit.

"Last time the Long-Tom cannon was used was here at the battle of the longtom pass during the Anglo-Boer war.

Beautiful winding road takes you past this bit of history and you can see why it would have been strategically important to hold this high ground. To be able to fire canons deep into the valley would have given anyone controlling the pass a definative advantage.

Worth a visit and woth a picture, for free."

Cj Jacobs

"If you stay in Lydenburg you can do a 200 km round trip Via Longtom pass - Gods Window - Mac Mac fall - And the outlook on Blyderivier canyon .. Then Orighstadt and if time you can also visit Pelgrims rest that is just 60 km from Lydenburg . These pictures are from Long Tom Pass and the Longtom canon ."

Neilia Nagel

"Beautiful but misty at night time and afternoon time"

sheldon 1342

What People Like

Spectacular scenic views
Thrilling toboggan ride
Historical cannon site

What People Dislike

Occasional mist
Unmarked roadworks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most scenic route from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park often passes through Long Tom Pass. Travelers recommend driving via Waterval Boven and the Panorama Route through Mbombela/Nelspruit for stunning views. Reddit Ensure you drive during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Instagram

Long Tom Pass is located on the R37 regional route between Lydenburg and Sabie. It's a direct drive, approximately 200 km for a round trip that can include other attractions like God's Window and Mac Mac Falls. Reddit

The road surface is generally good, but it's a winding mountain pass. Driving during daylight is recommended for better visibility and safety, especially as mist can roll in. InstagramReddit

While generally good, some travelers have noted roadworks with sections cut out of the road without warning. Drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Yes, Long Tom Pass is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially if you're exploring the Panorama Route. You can easily combine it with other attractions like God's Window and Blyde River Canyon. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The pass itself and its viewpoints are free to access. However, attractions like the Long Tom Toboggan at Misty Mountain require tickets. TikTokInstagram

Pricing for the Long Tom Toboggan can vary. It's best to check directly with Misty Mountain or their booking platform for the most up-to-date ticket prices. TikTokInstagram

No, the scenic lookout points along Long Tom Pass are free to access and enjoy. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Long Tom Toboggan tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel times, to guarantee your ride. Instagram

Operating hours for the Long Tom Toboggan can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check Misty Mountain's official website or contact them directly for current hours of operation. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Besides the scenic drive and viewpoints, the main attraction is the thrilling Long Tom Toboggan at Misty Mountain. You can also visit the historic Long Tom cannon and explore nearby natural wonders. TikTokReddit

Yes, Long Tom Pass offers a great experience for families. The scenic drive is enjoyable for all ages, and the Long Tom Toboggan provides an exciting adventure for older children and adults. Instagram

Expect breathtaking panoramic views of lush green valleys, rolling hills, and dramatic mountain ranges. The scenery is particularly stunning during clear weather. Instagram+1

While not extensively developed for hiking trails directly on the pass, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for nature walks and exploring the beautiful Mpumalanga landscape. Instagram+1

The pass is named after the Long Tom cannon, a significant piece of artillery used during the Anglo-Boer War. The high ground offered a strategic advantage, and the cannon is a reminder of this history. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Numerous lookout points along the R37 offer incredible photographic opportunities. Capture the sweeping vistas of the valleys and mountains. The historic Long Tom cannon also makes for a unique shot. InstagramReddit

Morning light often provides softer, more dramatic lighting for landscape photography. However, sunset can also offer beautiful colors, though mist can be a factor in the afternoons. InstagramReddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions in the area before flying. Some social media content features drone shots, suggesting it's possible in certain areas. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the mountains. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or potential mist. Instagram

Yes, the Long Tom cannon itself is a popular subject for photos. You can frame it against the backdrop of the mountains for a dramatic shot that combines history and scenery. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Long Tom Pass offers a blend of scenic beauty and adventure perfect for families. The scenic drive itself is engaging, with plenty of lookout points for kids to stretch their legs and marvel at the views. Instagram The main draw for families is the Long Tom Toboggan at Misty Mountain. It's an exhilarating ride that older children and adults will love, providing thrills and unforgettable memories. TikTokInstagram

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities directly on the pass might be limited. The historic Long Tom cannon also offers a touch of history that can spark curiosity in younger visitors. Reddit Remember to check the age and height restrictions for the toboggan before your visit.

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love a good road trip, Long Tom Pass is a must-drive. The winding R37 offers dynamic driving with constantly changing vistas. Instagram It's a key part of the famous Panorama Route, making it an ideal stop on a longer journey through Mpumalanga, perhaps en route to or from Kruger National Park. InstagramReddit

Plan for ample stops at the numerous viewpoints to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the landscape. Instagram Be prepared for potential mist, which can add to the dramatic atmosphere but also requires careful driving. Reddit The Long Tom Toboggan provides a unique, adrenaline-pumping activity to break up the drive. TikTok

📸 Photography Buffs

Long Tom Pass is a photographer's paradise, offering stunning panoramic landscapes that are perfect for wide-angle shots. Instagram+1 The dramatic valleys, rolling hills, and mountain formations provide endless composition opportunities. The historic Long Tom cannon also presents a unique subject, blending history with the natural scenery. Reddit

Visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. Be prepared for changing weather conditions; mist can create moody, atmospheric shots, while clear days offer crisp, vibrant views. InstagramReddit A tripod is recommended for capturing sharp images, especially if mist reduces visibility.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Long Tom Toboggan

The Long Tom Toboggan at Misty Mountain is a must-do for adventure seekers. This 1.7km monorail toboggan is the longest in Africa and can reach speeds of up to 45km/h. Riders wind through beautiful landscapes, experiencing twists and turns amidst wildflowers and forests. TikTokInstagram It's an exhilarating ride that offers a unique perspective of the Long Tom Pass. Instagram

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment. The experience is suitable for most ages, though check height and weight restrictions with Misty Mountain. Instagram It's a fantastic way to add a dose of adrenaline to your visit to the pass. Instagram

Tips for the Toboggan



* Book online: Secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Instagram
* Arrive early: Allow ample time for check-in and safety briefings.
* Wear comfortable clothing: Avoid loose items that could get caught. TikTok
* Capture the moment: While you can't film during the ride, the views before and after are spectacular. Instagram

A Drive Through History and Scenery

Long Tom Pass, situated on the R37 between Lydenburg and Sabie, is more than just a scenic route; it's a journey through history and breathtaking natural beauty. The pass is named after the Long Tom cannon, a powerful artillery piece used by the Boers during the Anglo-Boer War. Its strategic placement on the high ground allowed for commanding views and defensive capabilities, a testament to the area's historical importance. InstagramReddit

The drive itself is a highlight, with spectacular panoramic views of Mpumalanga's lush valleys and rolling mountains. Numerous lookout points are dotted along the route, offering perfect spots to pause, take photos, and soak in the awe-inspiring scenery. Instagram+1 Travelers often describe the views as 'awe-inspiring' and the drive as 'fun'. Reddit

Navigating the Pass



* Best time to drive: Daylight hours are recommended for optimal visibility and safety. Instagram
* Road conditions: While generally good, be aware of winding sections and potential roadworks. Reddit
* Mist factor: Be prepared for mist, especially in the afternoons and evenings, which can reduce visibility but also add a mystical atmosphere. Reddit

Winter Wonders: Snowfall at Long Tom Pass

While Mpumalanga is known for its warmer climate, Long Tom Pass occasionally experiences magical snowfall during the winter months. This rare phenomenon transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, drawing visitors eager to witness the spectacle. Instagram+2

Seeing snow in South Africa, especially in this region, is a unique experience. The contrast of white snow against the green mountains creates stunning photographic opportunities. Instagram If you're planning a visit during winter, keep an eye on weather forecasts for a chance to experience this enchanting side of Long Tom Pass. Instagram

Experiencing Snowfall



* Timing: Snowfall is most likely during the winter months (June to August).
* Check forecasts: Stay updated on weather predictions for the best chance of seeing snow. Instagram
* Dress warmly: Winter conditions can be cold, so pack appropriate layers. Instagram

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