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Tarka pass

  • Tarka Pass

    Tarkastad

    This 15.6 km gravel pass runs on the North/South axis approximately parallel (and to the West) of the tarred N10. The road mainly serves the local farming communities as well as the Blomfontein wedding venue. Despite its ascent/descent range of 353 vertical meters, the average gradient is a leisurely 1:44 with the steeper sections being 1:20.

    The pass is not a tarred pass, nor is it on the N10 as indicated by several well respected websites. Set aside at least an hour to drive the route, as there are several farm gates to open and close, plus the last few kilometres on the southern side have to be driven slowly, due to the rough nature of the road, beyond the Blomfontein farm.

    You will have the opportunity to enjoy rugged Karoo mountain scenery in a harsh, arid part of South Africa, where every drop of water counts. At the southern end of the pass, you will see some of the water canals of the Orange-Fish Irrigation Scheme, one of the largest in South Africa.

    As an added bonus, there is a disused rail tunnel that can be driven, but it's not easy to find or access.