
Long Tom Pass
A breathtaking mountain pass in Mpumalanga, offering scenic drives, historical sites, and the thrilling Long Tom Toboggan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, safer driving

Long Tom Pass
Best Time
Clearer views, safer driving
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking mountain pass in Mpumalanga, offering scenic drives, historical sites, and the thrilling Long Tom Toboggan.
"Awe-inspiringly beautiful sights and viewpoints, the most beautiful Pass I drove on in South Africa."

🚗 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

Panoramic Viewpoints
Various lookout points along the R37
Stop at designated viewpoints for awe-inspiring vistas of lush valleys and dramatic mountain ranges.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Adventure Awaits at Misty Mountain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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:
🧥 Mist & Weather
Misty Mountain can get misty, especially afternoons/evenings. Pack layers! :cloud:
📸 Capture the Views
Stop at numerous lookout points for stunning photos of the Mpumalanga landscape. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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:
🧥 Mist & Weather
Misty Mountain can get misty, especially afternoons/evenings. Pack layers! :cloud:
📸 Capture the Views
Stop at numerous lookout points for stunning photos of the Mpumalanga landscape. :camerawithflash:
❄️ Snowfall Surprise
Winter can bring unexpected, magical snowfall! Check forecasts if you're hoping for a winter wonderland. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. Ensure you drive during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The pass itself and its viewpoints are free to access. However, attractions like the Long Tom Toboggan at Misty Mountain require tickets.
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.
No, the scenic lookout points along Long Tom Pass are free to access and enjoy.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Long Tom Toboggan tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel times, to guarantee your ride.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of lush green valleys, rolling hills, and dramatic mountain ranges. The scenery is particularly stunning during clear weather.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. Remember to check the age and height restrictions for the toboggan before your visit.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan for ample stops at the numerous viewpoints to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the landscape. Be prepared for potential mist, which can add to the dramatic atmosphere but also requires careful driving. The Long Tom Toboggan provides a unique, adrenaline-pumping activity to break up the drive.
📸 Photography Buffs
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. 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
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. It's a fantastic way to add a dose of adrenaline to your visit to the pass.
Tips for the Toboggan
* Book online: Secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
* Arrive early: Allow ample time for check-in and safety briefings.
* Wear comfortable clothing: Avoid loose items that could get caught.
* Capture the moment: While you can't film during the ride, the views before and after are spectacular.
A Drive Through History and Scenery
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. Travelers often describe the views as 'awe-inspiring' and the drive as 'fun'.
Navigating the Pass
* Best time to drive: Daylight hours are recommended for optimal visibility and safety.
* Road conditions: While generally good, be aware of winding sections and potential roadworks.
* Mist factor: Be prepared for mist, especially in the afternoons and evenings, which can reduce visibility but also add a mystical atmosphere.
Winter Wonders: Snowfall at Long Tom Pass
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. 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.
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.
* Dress warmly: Winter conditions can be cold, so pack appropriate layers.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit