Prince Alfred’s Pass & the Scenic Route Between Uniondale and Knysna

Tucked between the rugged Outeniqua Mountains and the lush forests of Knysna lies one of South Africa’s most captivating hidden gems: Prince Alfred’s Pass. This winding gravel road, rich with history and overflowing with natural beauty, offers travellers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience along the famous Route 62, South Africa’s answer to the USA’s Route 66.

Whether you're a road tripper, a history buff, or a nature lover, this blog will guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of this memorable drive.

A Road Built by Legends: The History of Prince Alfred’s Pass

Constructed in the 1860s by the famous road engineer Thomas Bain, Prince Alfred’s Pass is the oldest unaltered mountain pass still in use in South Africa. Stretching approximately 68km between Avontuur and Knysna, the pass was built entirely by hand over 5 years, using convict labour and without any modern machinery.

It was named after Queen Victoria’s second son, Prince Alfred, who visited the Cape Colony during its construction. Today, the road stands not only as a marvel of engineering but as a journey through time, echoing the grit, determination, and craftsmanship of a bygone era.

What to Expect: Scenery, Terrain & Driving Conditions

• Surface : Mostly gravel with some concrete strips on steep sections
• Length : 68km (between Uniondale/Avontuur and Knysna)
• Time Required : 2–3 hours of slow, scenic driving
• Best Vehicle : A high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 is recommended, especially in wet weather

Highlights Along the Way:

• Towering cliffs & deep gorges
• Natural waterfalls and river crossings
• Switchbacks and hairpin bends offering sweeping views
• Dense indigenous forest with ferns, tree fuchsias, and yellowwoods
• Opportunities for birdwatching, picnics, and photography

The road is not for the faint-hearted, but the ever-changing landscapes will reward every cautious turn with breathtaking views.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Here’s how you can make the most of the journey:

Day 1: From Port Elizabeth to Uniondale

• Start your journey from Treetops Guesthouse in Port Elizabeth.
• Stop for breakfast in Jeffreys Bay or Humansdorp.
• Continue through Misgund and Avontuur before entering the pass.
• Stay the night at a farmstay or guesthouse in Uniondale or the forests near De Vlugt.

Optional: Explore the quaint Uniondale Ghost Story before you go, it adds eerie charm to your evening!

Day 2: Drive Prince Alfred’s Pass into Knysna

• Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring the De Vlugt village, where you’ll find:
• Angie’s G Spot, a biker-friendly stop known for its quirky charm and meals.
• Bloukrans River crossings perfect for photos.
• Continue toward Knysna, stopping for lunch at Totties Farm Kitchen just before the end of the pass.
• Spend your afternoon in Knysna Forest, walking the trails or visiting the Knysna Heads before heading back or continuing your journey along the Garden Route.

What to Pack & Tips

• Water & snacks (there are limited stops)
• Full fuel tank before entering the pass
• Camera or drone (the views are next-level!)
• Hiking shoes if you plan to stop for a walk
• Picnic blanket for a peaceful roadside break

Your Starting Point: Treetops Guesthouse, Port Elizabeth

Start your journey at Treetops Guesthouse, just 2 minutes from Port Elizabeth airport. Our comfortable, secure, and affordable rooms make it the perfect spot to prepare before venturing off into the mountains.

Ask our team for local route tips, weather updates, or a pre-packed breakfast for the road!

Why Choose the R62 Over the N2?

While the N2 is quicker, the R62 offers an authentic and less commercial experience of South Africa’s interior. Prince Alfred’s Pass is one of the last gravel mountain roads that combines wilderness, heritage, and hidden gems, a true adventure for travellers seeking something extraordinary.

Final Thoughts

If you're seeking the road less travelled, Prince Alfred’s Pass is a must. It's not just a way to get from A to B, it's a journey that tells the story of South Africa's natural and historical legacy, curve by curve.

Tag us in your road trip snaps and let us know what you discovered on this wild, beautiful stretch of the Garden Route!