Mashishing
Mashishing
White River
White River
Driving

Mashishing to White River

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Mashishing to White River covers 95 km via the R37. This route takes you over the famous Long Tom Pass, offering spectacular mountain views. The journey typically takes 1.5 hours. It is a popular route for tourists heading toward the Kruger National Park. The road is winding and requires careful driving, especially in misty conditions.

Total Distance: 95 km driving distance; 70 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the R37 takes 1.5 hours, which is the fastest and only direct route.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the only practical and cost-effective way to travel.
Compare Mashishing to White River Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price
R200 - R250 in fuel
Operator
Private Vehicle
Route
R37 via Long Tom Pass

The Long Tom Pass is steep; use low gear when descending.

Travel Tips
  • Driving Caution
    The R37 is a winding mountain road; drive slowly and respect the speed limits.
  • Weather
    Mist can reduce visibility to near zero on the pass; use fog lights if necessary.
  • Fuel
    Fill up in Mashishing as there are few stations on the mountain pass.
  • Photography
    Pull over at designated viewpoints to take photos safely.
  • Road Conditions
    Check for road maintenance updates before departing, as the R37 occasionally undergoes repairs.
Safety Tips
  • Brake Safety
    Use engine braking on the steep descents to prevent brake overheating.
  • Wildlife
    Be aware of baboons and other wildlife that may cross the road on the pass.
  • Emergency
    Keep a physical map or offline GPS, as cell signal is intermittent on the pass.
  • Night Driving
    Avoid driving the Long Tom Pass at night due to lack of lighting and sharp curves.
People Also Ask
  • Is the R37 safe?
    Yes, it is a major road, but it requires careful driving due to curves.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
  • Are there buses?
    No, there is no public bus service on this route.
  • Is it a toll road?
    No, there are no toll gates on the R37 between these towns.
  • Can I take a train?
    No, there is no passenger train service available.
Quick Info
  • From Mashishing, Mpumalanga, South Africa
  • To White River, Mpumalanga, South Africa
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn (April to May) for clear skies and stunning mountain vistas.

Things to Do in White River
1
Long Tom Pass
Stop at the top of the pass for panoramic views of the Mpumalanga escarpment. It is a historic site from the Anglo-Boer War.
2
Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre
A unique shopping and dining destination in White River. It features art galleries and boutique stores.
3
White River Gallery
Visit this gallery to see works by local Mpumalanga artists. It is a hub for the regional art scene.
4
Bagdad Centre
A charming outdoor shopping center with a relaxed atmosphere. It is great for a coffee break or lunch.
Tags
Mashishing to White River R37 route driving to White River Mashishing transport White River travel guide Mpumalanga road trip Long Tom Pass scenic drive Mpumalanga