lesotho travel information

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Beautiful, culturally rich, affordable and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho (le-soo-too) is a vastly underrated travel destination. The contrast with South Africa could not be more striking, with the Basotho people's distinct personality and the altitudinous terrain's topographical extremes. Even a few days in Lesotho’s hospitable mountain lodges and trading posts will give you a fresh perspective on Southern Africa.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Qacha's Nek Snake Park

This site is unique in Lesotho, not only because it is the country's only snake park, but because you can also get your car washed while you visit the…

Cultural Village

Revamped in 2016, the well-maintained cultural village is a highly worthwhile stop. Excellent guided tours of the complex explain traditional Basotho…

Liphofung Cave Cultural & Historical Site

This small but historically significant sandstone overhang is adorned in San rock art and served as a temporary hideaway home for King Moshoeshoe the…

Bokong Nature Reserve

Bokong has perhaps the more dramatic setting of the two northern parks, with stunning vistas over the Lepaqoa Valley from the visitors centre, various…

Ts'ehlanyane National Park

The country's top park features a beautiful, 56-sq-km patch of rugged wilderness, including one of Lesotho’s only stands of indigenous forest, at a high…

Ha Baroana is one of Lesotho’s more important and publicised rock-art sites. It’s worth a visit if you have extra time, although neglect and vandalism…

Sehlabathebe National Park

This far-flung, lesser-visited park offers stunning rock formations, rolling grasslands, wildflowers and a feeling of isolation, though there's also a…

Ha Kome Cave Houses

The Ha Kome cave houses are an anomaly in this area, 21km from Teyateyaneng (TY) and several kilometres from the village of Mateka. These extraordinary…

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• 2 Other destinations
• 3.1 History
• 3.3 Climate
• 3.4 Festivals
• 4.1 Entry requirements
• 4.2 By plane
• 4.3 By train
• 4.6 By hitchhiking
• 5.1 By regular taxi
• 5.2.1 Finding a taxi
• 5.4 By plane
• 9.2 Shopping
• 14 Stay safe
• 15 Stay healthy

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Lesotho\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Lesotho is a small country totally surrounded by South Africa . It's known as the "Kingdom in the Sky" because the entire country is at a high altitude. Its lowest point is 1,388   m (4,554   ft) above sea level; no other country in the world has its lowest point above 1,000   m (3,300   ft) . Lesotho is a fantastic adventure holiday destination because of its smiling and resourceful people and bracing climate.

• -29.31 27.48 1 Maseru — the capital
• -28.873361 28.041583 2 Leribe — regional market hub, with great craft shopping
• -29.816667 27.25 3 Mafeteng
• -30.15 27.466667 4 Mohale's Hoek
• -29.288495 29.065568 5 Mokhotlong
• Qacha's Nek
• -30.400111 27.700194 6 Quthing — fantastic rock art nearby
• -29.15 27.733333 7 Teyateyaneng (called 'TY' for short) — the craft centre of Lesotho
• -29.52204 28.6084 8 Thaba-Tseka

Other destinations

• -29.5881 29.2927 2 Sani Pass — 4x4 road into Lesotho from Underberg, with places to stay and activities at the top
• -29.9 29.116667 3 Sehlabathebe National Park — remote mountain reserve great for hiking with rare wildlife, impressive waterfalls, and ancient rock paintings and stone shelters
• -28.924 28.458 4 Ts'ehlanyane National Park — sub-alpine national park at the foot of the Holomo Pass. Home to one of the few remaining Che-Che (old wood) forests, with hiking trails and pristine rock pools and rivers
• -29.342 28.485 5 Katse — pony-trekking and the impressive Katse Dam
• -29.82871 27.59961 6 Malealea — pony-trekking
• -29.4665 29.3939 7 Maloti Drakensberg Park
• -29.631111 27.505833 8 Morija — museum, dinosaur footprints
• -29.8433 28.0504 9 Semonkong — Maletsunyane Falls, one of the highest single drop waterfalls in the world
• -29.353611 27.670833 10 Thaba Bosiu — the mountain stronghold where King Moeshoeshoe the Great established the Kingdom of Lesotho
• -29.24428 27.86681 11 Kome Cave Dwellings – a collection of restored, mud-built cave dwellings from the early 19th century

Before European settlement of the area, the Sotho-Tswana people lived in what is now Free State in neighbouring South Africa . They were a farming people, and when the Zulus started attacking villages and the Dutch Voortrekkers started encroaching on their land, they fled up into the Lesotho mountains. Here, continuous attacks from the Zulus forced local tribes to join together for protection, and by 1824, King Moeshoeshoe had established himself as king and Thaba Bosiu as his mountain fortress.

Moeshoeshoe later allied himself with the British Cape Colony government in a bid to protect the Basotho from the Boers' rapidly increasing presence in the area. Much fighting followed, forcing Moeshoeshoe to go to the imperial government of the British, and in 1868, Basotholand (as it was then called, later to be called Basutoland) became a protectorate of the British Empire. It gained independence within the Commonwealth of Nations on 4 October 1966.

The Kingdom of Lesotho was formed through the pursuit of peace, and this peaceful nature still exists in the Basotho. They are a friendly and welcoming people and do not have the aggressive history some of the peoples of neighbouring countries have. People are especially grateful to the British, and the older generation will come up to a Briton and tell them how much they thank them for saving them from Apartheid.

Lesotho has 300 days of sunshine. The rainy season extends from October to April in which Lesotho gets 70 mm of rainfall, mostly during severe thunderstorms. Extensive snow falls are possible in winter but may occur in any month on the high mountains. Night time temperatures go below freezing in winter (May — September), and houses do not feature central heating, so bring a jacket. Because of the high altitude, the air is cold and dry, so bring moisturiser and a chap-stick.

• Independence Day (4 October) celebrates the day that Lesotho achieved independence.
• Moshoeshoe Day (14 March) celebrates the life of the founding father of the country. In Maseru , the procession goes from the Palace all the way to the Sotho Stadium, and involves many people dressed up in Lesotho's vibrant and colourful traditional dress — usually comprising blankets and sticks and if you're lucky, the cat hat. Women involved in the parade will be carrying huge bundles of sticks, as they traditionally would do, whilst the men will either be doing traditional dances, riding horses, or herding bulls along the road. At the stadium, after the procession has arrived, there are military and police parades, which aren't nearly so enjoyable.

Entry requirements

Foreign nationals of the following countries/territories can enter Lesotho visa-free:

For up to 90 days: Antigua and Barbuda , Bahamas , Bangladesh , Barbados , Belize , Botswana , Brunei , Cameroon , Dominica , Eswatini , Fiji , Gambia , Grenada , Guyana , Hong Kong SAR , Ireland , Israel , Jamaica , Japan , Kenya , Kiribati , Malawi , Malaysia , Maldives , Mauritius , Monaco , Namibia , Nauru , North Korea , Papua New Guinea , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Samoa , San Marino , Seychelles , Sierra Leone , Singapore , Solomon Islands , South Africa , South Korea , Sri Lanka , Syria , Tanzania , Tonga , Trinidad and Tobago , Tuvalu , Uganda , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu , Zambia and Zimbabwe

For up to 14 days: Australia , Austria , Belgium , Canada , Denmark , Finland , France , Germany , Iceland , Italy , Netherlands , New Zealand , Norway , Portugal , Spain , Sweden , and Switzerland

Your passport needs to be valid for another six months and you need at least two blank pages. The proof of a return or onward ticket or your future travel plans might be asked, but this should not be a problem.

If you require a visa to enter Lesotho, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no foreign mission of Lesotho. For example, the British embassies/consulates in Al Khobar , Almaty , Belgrade , Budapest , Geneva , Guatemala City [ dead link ] , Jeddah, Prague , Pristina , Riyadh, Rome , Sofia , Vienna and Zurich accept Lesotho visa applications (this list is not exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge £50 to process a Lesotho visa application and an extra £70 if the authorities in Lesotho require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Lesotho can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly.

Moshoeshoe Airport is located 18km from Maseru . South African Airways and Airlink operate daily flights between Maseru and Johannesburg , typically costing around 1,400 South African rand (R). Luggage is lost very regularly and there is no lost luggage reporting system. You should arrange taxi pick-up in advance as often there are no taxis at the airport. Taxis charge around R50-80.

There is no train line within Lesotho, but the South African railway line Bloemfontein Bohlokong (freight only) runs along the northwestern Lesotho border, with a stop in Meqheleng .

You will be coming from South Africa when entering by car. The major border posts are Caledonspoort, Ficksburg Bridge, Makhaleng Bridge, Maseru Bridge, Ngoangoma Gate, Peka Bridge, Qacha's Nek, Ramatseliso's Gate, Sani Pass, Sephaphos Gate, Tele Bridge and Van Rooyen's Gate. Please note that some of the border posts can only be accessed by four-wheel driven cars, and only Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge are open 24 hours; other borders can close as early as 16:00.

The Maseru Bridge can be crowded due to traffic, but the border guards are rather quick. There is a R30 road toll when driving in to Maseru.

The Sani Pass Road (P318) from north of Himesville to the South African Border control point 7   km from the border is fine for normal cars. From there, it's 4WD, high clearance vehicles only from the South African border post. The South African border guards may prevent you continuing if your car is unsuitable. The road then becomes a narrow, winding and incredibly steep, rocky track that feels like you are climbing into a mist shrouded, lost world. Once you have started the final climb you are committed, since there is no room to turn around if you find the challenge too great for you or your vehicle. At the top, going on into Lesotho, the road has been sealed and is in very good condition all the way to Maseru (May 2019).

The main roads in Lesotho are similar to minor roads in Europe — they are sealed, and free of potholes. The A1 road (aka 'Main North') is tarred from Maseru to Mokhotlong , and the A2 (aka 'Main South') is tarred from Maseru to Qacha's Nek . The roads to Roma , Mohale Dam, Semonkong and Katse Dam are also tarred. For the visitor, the only unsealed road you are likely to use is the last 20km to Malealea, which is easy in a saloon (sedan). Note that the road running east-west to Thaba Tseka is now sealed and in good condition.

If setting off in to the mountains, check your car over before the trip (top up the oil, pump the spare tyre, etc.) There are some steep climbs which require 2nd or even 1st gear to get up, so don't attempt to drive to Qacha's Nek with 5 people squeezed into a hired 1.3 litre CitiGolf.

If in doubt, please ask locals if the road you are going to take is okay, especially during wintertime. The truth is that if you keep to the main roads you are likely to drive on a road smoother than Eastern Free State (RSA) roads. However the stretch from Oxbow to Mokhotlong is not tarred (regardless of some maps that claim it is) and very potholed.

When taking a rented car, be sure to get permission from the rental company to take the car into Lesotho. You will need to show written permission from the rental company at border control. Be clear with your rental agency about what's covered and what's not in order to avoid unpleasant surprises. Full coverage doesn't necessarily mean full coverage.

As of September 2018, the price of the border letter varies greatly among rental agencies: Bidvest (free), Avis (R550), Thrifty (R1,513), Hertz (R1,614.03).

Finally, petrol can be a problem if you wish to go to the mountains, it is best to fill up in Butha-Buthe if you wish to go to Mokhotlong as there are no fillings stations all the way to the district's camptown which goes by the same name, If you wish to go to Thaba-Tseka you can fill up at Maseru or Hlotse , or any of the towns you will come across such as Lejone, Seshote and 'Mamohau depending on which route you took. You will find both leaded and unleaded petrol (gasoline) including diesel in most filling stations, there are multiple filling stations in most towns. Diesel fuel dispensers are usually remote normally behind the filling stations.

Vaal-Maseru [ dead link ] runs a coach service between Johannesburg and Maseru . Maluti Tours [ dead link ] , based in Clarens , offers tours to Lesotho.

Minibuses run pretty much anywhere from the Maseru Bridge border, but you must get there early in the morning (07:00) as there may be only 1 bus a day.

By hitchhiking

If travelling in from Bloemfontein you could hitch-hike easily enough (look out for Lesotho number plates). If going from Maseru to Bloemfontein , hanging around the border (especially on a Saturday morning) should get you a lift (offer some money).

By regular taxi

Regular taxis (you phone, they pick you up) and 4+1s have a yellow stripe down the side and squeeze in 4 passengers. Always check the cost of a taxi before you get in.

By minibus taxi

As with most of Africa the minibus 'taxi' (aka combi or Toyota Hiace) is the transport of the people.

Ensure you are clear on where the minibus is going (there should be a sign in the front windscreen), you'll be asked for money after a minute or two, with money then passed down the minibus. Try to get the front seat by the driver for more leg room. Prices are fixed by the government. There is a risk of overcharging foreigners so ask the other passengers if you’re unsure of the price. Be warned, Minibus taxis are so cheap because they squeeze in so many people. Don't be surprised to see children sitting on laps four or five high, or to be told to have large amounts of luggage on your lap or wedged in around you. The Minibus taxis tend to be poorly maintained and are not insured. However, very few accidents involving taxis occur.

Intercity travel by taxi will cost no more than M50 (maloti) for a single way ticket, and inner city minibus taxi rides will cost you around M2.50 (4+1s will cost you M20 for the whole car, no matter how many are with you, provided its within a city.)

Always check the cost of a taxi before you get in.

Finding a taxi

Upon arrival in one of the main towns, you will notice that all the minibuses are hooting their horns, which is to signal that they have space for more passengers. To flag one down, just wave to a taxi as it approaches, the conductor (who will be leaning out of the window on the kerbside of the van) will usually be shouting the destination of the taxi. If you are not sure it will be going where you want to go, ask before you get in.

In Maseru, there is a place called Setopong on Moeshoeshoe Road, near to the Shoprite by The Circle / Cathedral. This is where all the minibus taxis leave from, and if you want a taxi out of town, you should head here. However, it is a very busy and bustling place, heaving with people. It is easiest to take a 4+1 taxi toward Setopong and ask the driver to drop you off near the taxis that travel to the part of the country you are going.

It is also possible to hire a car and travel around. The Sun hotels in Maseru both have hire car places, as does the airport. If you hire your car in South Africa (probably cheaper than hiring in Lesotho) be sure to get permission to take the car across into Lesotho (the hire car insurance may not cover Lesotho).

But it's nowhere near as fun as getting up close to the locals and chatting with them.

You don't need a 4x4 to see the main sights in Lesotho, for the average visitor only the road to Semonkong will need a 4x4. The road is tarred to Mokhotlong (via Leribe) and is now tarred all the way to Qacha's Nek going south from Maseru. In the towns some side roads are unsealed but you can bump along in a saloon easily sufficient. If heading to the mountains on unsealed roads (e.g. to the Kao diamond mine) then a 4x4 is a must. The same goes for Thaba Tseka and going up or down the Sani pass.

When driving it's not advisable to stop at junctions or traffic lights at night as there is a very small possibility of something nasty happening, such as being carjacked.

• Mission Aviation Fellowship , ☏ +266 2232 5699 . Offers flights to NGOs operating in Lesotho and also offers charter flights from Moeshoeshoe I airport in Maseru if you want to reach an inaccessible part of the country  

The official languages are Sesotho and English .

Most people in the larger towns or tourist attractions speak English to a reasonable standard and a few words of Afrikaans ; however, outside these areas, these languages will not be understood.

• Semonkong Falls — these falls near Semonkong drop 200 m in single plunge! In summer, you can swim in the pond below while in winter the pond freezes over and an ice enclosure develops around the falls.
• Katse Dam — an impressive dam towering 185 m in a narrow valley
• Dinosaur footprints — well-preserved footprints of these terrible lizards exist around the country; the most accessible are near Moyeni & Morija
• Rock art — found in many places throughout the country, the most impressive found within Liphofung Cave.
• Pony-Trekking especially at either Malealea , Semonkong , or at the Basotho Pony-Trekking Centre — whether you are a seasoned pro at horse riding or a complete novice, pony-trekking is an extremely enjoyable way to see the Lesotho countryside. These organized tours give you access to parts of the country which you wouldn't see from your car. The exceptionally sure-footed Basotho Pony can take you through far-off villages and atop daunting mountains.
• Hiking . In the Highlands. Contact the Department of Tourism [ formerly dead link ] , who will find you a guide, and then fly into a completely cut off village and hike your way out, staying in remote villages over night. You can also purchase 1:25,000 topographical maps for about M25 from the office of Lands, Surveys, and Physical Planning in downtown Maseru and do this yourself (recommended only for experienced hikers).  
• Skiing — at Afriski, Oxbow during the winter.

Lesotho's currency is the loti (plural maloti ), denoted by the symbol " L " (for one loti) " M " (for more than one loti) (ISO code: LSL ). It is fixed at a 1:1 ratio with the South African rand (ZAR), as are the Namibian dollar, the Swazi emalilangeni and the Botswana pula. South African currency is accepted everywhere and so there is no need to change money. However you will get maloti in change (unless you ask), which is very difficult to unload in South Africa and pretty well impossible elsewhere.

Coins of Lesotho come in denominations of 10, 20 and 50 lisente, 1, 2 and 5 maloti. Banknotes of Lesotho are issued in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 maloti.

There are ATMs at banks in most towns, although you will not find them elsewhere. Most banks will change travellers cheques for you, but it can be a very, very lengthy process if they are in any other currency apart from South African rand.

There are several Western-style supermarkets in Maseru , which are good for stocking up on supplies in before heading elsewhere in the country.

If you're after locally made goods and crafts, your best bet is to give Maseru a miss, and head to Teyateyaneng (TY) or Hlotse , where the markets are far better and cheaper. You can buy traditional Basotho hats (Mokorotlo), sticks (molamo), rugs and various other curiosities. In particular, the Basotho blanket is a hallmark of Basotho culture. Equally popular in South Africa, they were brought by the British for trading purposes, but overtime became ingrained in Basotho culture and are worn as casual and formal attire. They are sold in shops and markets all over Lesotho but best prices are most likely to be found in Maseru, TY or Mafekeng.

Credit cards will be accepted in Shoprite and the main hotels, but not elsewhere. Your cashcard from home may work in some Maseru cash machines (FNB or Standard Bank) but best to get cash out in South Africa beforehand.

Restaurants outside of Maseru (and most in Maseru) will probably not accept credit card as a means of payment.

There are many Western style restaurants in Maseru . For a more traditional meal, why not befriend some locals and see what they cook you?

Maluti beer is superb.

• Sani Top Chalet . Features the highest pub in Africa . Maluti beer: M15 .  

Lesotho hosts dozens of hotels, lodges and guesthouses.

For current happenings in Lesotho the weekly Public Eye [ dead link ] newspaper is a good source of info.

It is risky to walk in Maseru alone at night. During the day, at least the main roads of Maseru are safe to walk alone.

As with pretty much everywhere else in the world, you may find friendly chats with locals turn in to veiled requests for money — stick to your principles and only give to registered charities.

At night time, it is the norm to drive through red lights. This is more just to hasten your journey (the police won't care) but as a precaution against carjackings.

Stay healthy

The HIV/AIDS incidence rate in Lesotho is the 3rd highest in the world at around 25% or 1 in 4 people infected. Even more worrying is the prevalence rate of around 50% for women under 40 in urban areas.

Consult a doctor as to which vaccinations you will require, but they will most likely include Hep A, Hep B, and Typhoid. If you are staying in rural areas for a long time then a rabies shot would be a good idea. Tropical diseases such as malaria, yellow fever and bilharzia are not present in Lesotho.

It is a very good idea to carry some sterile needles and dressing in your first aid kit: the hospitals throughout Lesotho are not of a very high standard.

If you do have any serious health problems while in Lesotho, get in contact with your country's embassy either in Maseru, or in most cases, in Pretoria in South Africa , as there are very good hospitals across the border in SA for those who can afford to use them.

Lesotho is a high, mountainous plateau, and in the remote Highlands a few people may suffer from altitude sickness when they first arrive. Drink a lot of water and keep covered up, skin burns quickly in the thin mountain air. It gets hot in the sun in the summer.

The water in Lesotho is not clean and should not be drunk untreated. Be warned about street vendors who sell fizzy drinks as these are usually in unclean reused glass bottles.

Pack moisturizer! Lesotho's air is dry and some people will suffer from dry skin.

Try and learn a few Sesotho words before travelling to Lesotho. The locals appreciate a foreigner who has made the effort to learn their language. Always refer to an elder person, or a person of higher social standing as "Ntate" (male) or " 'Me " (female).

• Dumela (pronounced due-mela) is hello. So you would say Dumela Ntate or Dumela 'Me.
• Kea leboha (sounds like kia-lebh-oha) — thank you
• Respond with either hantle (well) or Ke phela hantle (I am well)
• Sala hantle (as it is written) is "stay well" if they are staying and you are going. Equivalent to goodbye.
• Tsamaea hantle is "go well" if they are going and you are staying

Always respond to people: It is very offensive to ignore someone who greets you. As a foreigner, locals will be keen to say hello and ask you what you're up to in their country.

Never get angry at anyone; in the Basotho culture, people never show frustration towards others, and if you do, then you can easily offend someone. You will almost certainly get frustrated when dealing with Lesotho officialdom, always keep your cool no matter how much buffoonery you are subjected to. To show respect when giving and receiving items, use both hands. Also show a respect for food: don't throw it around, or eat whilst walking. Overall, Basotho people are humble and down to earth.

In Maseru , there are several internet cafes, although fairly cheap (usually LSL0.20-0.50 per min) they are pretty slow at best.

The mobile hone network is OK in the towns, but fair out in the countryside. The only British mobile phone network that has a roaming agreement is Vodafone. There are two mobile operators in Lesotho, Vodacom and Econet Telecom Lesoth [ formerly dead link ] . Vodacom has the widest coverage outside the towns, but is the (more) oversubscribed, and hence the less reliable. You can buy a Vodacom or Ezicel Buddie pay as you go sim card for under M50 in Maseru: worthwhile if you are staying for a while. Mobile phones are available for hire in Maseru. Lesotho uses GSM900. The networks are good, and both have 4G options.

If you have a South African Vodacom SIM Card, you can use it in Lesotho only on the Vodacom network. Be sure to enable roaming.

• Ukhahlamba Drakensberg — mountainous region in South Africa , close to Lesotho

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Home » Travel Guides » Lesotho » 15 Best Places to Visit in Lesotho

15 Best Places to Visit in Lesotho

There are few countries in the southern reaches of Africa as off-the-beaten-track as little Lesotho. Why? Well, for starters, it’s Landlocked and entirely encompassed by the popular lands of South Africa the country, meaning it’s not exactly the easiest place to get to. And then there’s its veneer, spiked for the most part by impenetrable mountains of stark rock and sweeping plateaus of dusty sandstone – not the easiest place to navigate! But with Lesotho’s difficulties so too come its beauties.

The backcountry is wild and primeval. Sweeping grass plains are broken only by the occasional peppering of thatched San villages. The great mountain rivers are only just being tamed by even greater mountain dams. There are awesome waterfalls or valley panoramas around every corner, and the trekking – well, the trekking is simply to-die-for!

Lets explore the best places to visit in Lesotho :

1. Tsehlanyane National Park

The undisputed jewel in the crown of Lesotho’s national park system comes in the form of the sun-baked highlands of Tsehlanyane.

Surrounded by the rock-ribbed peaks of the mighty Maloti Mountains (also home to the Afriski resort, believe it or not!), the region is famed for its rare woodland habitats and high altitudes of up to 5,600 meters above sea level.

Trekkers often opt to hit the connecting trail that links the park with Bokong, and come to delve into the wildernesses of chi chi trees and rare fern species, endemic berg bamboo groves and mountain animals that abounds in all its glory here.

Welcoming, stable, small and on-the-up, Maseru might just be something of the odd one out when it comes to African capitals.

Slowly being reconstructed after a period of upheaval in the late 90s, the town is now a charming and characterful place to while away a few days.

The most noticeable landmark has to be the appropriately-named Basotho Hat, which is actually a gift shop selling traditional Basotho arts and crafts.

Aside from that there’s a smattering of great tailors and international eateries, not to mention a fair bit of backpacker traffic in the bars.

3. Semonkong

Nestled between the dusty escarpments of the Maseru District, close to the geographical heart of Lesotho as a whole, the little conglomeration of bamboo-topped thatch villages and huts that is Semonkong might not look like one of the most-visited spots in the country; but it is.

Why? Well, that honour surely has to go to the mist-producing plumes of the great Maletsunyane Falls, which can be found roaring over the edge of a table-top mountain nearby.

Thousands of visitors come to wonder at this great natural creation, to scale the mountain paths in its presence and see the ice-caked plunge pools into which is descends.

4. Katse Dam

Blocking the meanders of the Malibamat’so River as it flows down from the cold highlands of the country, the Katse Dam once reigned supreme as the largest of its kind in all of Africa.

And while that superlative has been taken by the Tekezé Dam of Ethiopia, there’s no question that this dramatic wall of concrete and steel remains one of the continent’s real engineering wonders.

Surrounded by grass-topped mountains and undulating peaks, it clocks up a whopping 185 meters in height and comes in at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level!

Nestled between the dramatic mountains just to the west of the aforementioned Katse Dam, the little hill town of Bokong is a great place to wax up the walking boots and hit the trails of central Lesotho.

In the immediate vicinity, visitors will be able to discover the likes of the Lepaqoa Waterfall, crashing over the escarpments of rock that define Lesotho’s highlands in plumes of mist and steam.

The surrounding Bokong Nature Reserve is also a real draw.

Complete with winding hiking trails and maintained campsites, it’s a great place for horse riding and trekking, and even runs into the paths of the Tsehlanyane National Park on its northern fringes.

6. Liphofung

The sinewy mountains around Liphofung rise in hues of ochre and snow-white during the winter.

They conceal the fascinating historic sites of the Moteng Valley, which have yielded evidence of human habitation in these parts of Lesotho since at least the Stone Age.

Today, visitors can come and explore the unique history of the Liphofung Caves, where a well-rounded visitor’s center now offers an insight into the old Basotho kings and the ins and outs of traditional Basotho craft culture.

There are also oodles of walking routes in the area, and some good campsites to boot.

Also known by the name of the river that fringes the north and south of the town (Hlotse), little, laid-back Leribe is the place to go for a glimpse of authentic Basotho life.

Set right on the Lesotho-South Africa border in the north of the country, its wide, sun-baked streets are lined with low-rise shacks and tin homes.

Some draws include the local marketplace, the Leribe Craft Center (loaded with handmade fabrics and wools), and one or two historic wartime lookout points (dating from the years of English colonialism). There are also English-style statues peppering the squares and a pretty Anglican church to see.

8. Butha-Buthe

The gateway to the northern passes, the northern “city” of Butha-Buthe touts easy access to the prehistoric wonders of the Moteng Valley, some of the country’s most dramatic mountain roads, and the aforementioned Afriski ski resort to boot.

However, the town itself is also worth a little attention, thanks largely to the natural rock fortresses on its edges.

These once helped the Basotho kings fend of Zulu invaders, and still offer some breathtaking views over the roofs of the city and surrounding district.

9. Thaba Bosiu

You could be forgiven for thinking that you’d been transported to the hoodoo-spiked lands of Arizona or Mexico when you first behold this vast and flat stretch of desert-like sandstone that dominates the landscape between the Orange and Caledon Rivers.

But no, this is still Lesotho, and the two square kilometers of elevated space offered by the Thaba Bosiu plateau represents the historic natural fortress of the Basotho tribe, while the spot also served as a stronghold during the Basuto Wars, and against the Boers during the Basotho conflicts with the Orange Free State in the 1850s.

10. Ha Kome

The awesome Ha Kome cave houses of Lesotho’s Berea District are surely one of the most striking wonders in the country.

Carved directly from the rock faces of the surrounding mountains, they can be found hiding between the valleys close to the village of Mateka.

A truly earthy and interesting look at traditional family living in this part of Africa, the structures are still inhabited by the descendants of those who built them almost 200 years ago.

Come and meet the cave dwellers and take a tour of the on-site Ha Kome Visitors Centre, which unravels the heritage of these curious highland settlements.

Mohale is a beautiful place. Sprawled over the sculpted mountains right in the heart of the country, it’s enveloped by sweeping highland panoramas on all sides.

And while there are only a few who come to enjoy the less-popular trekking away from Bokong and Tsehlanyane, most these days will flock into the region for a glimpse of the award-winning Mohale Dam.

Intended as a backup to the aforementioned Katse Dam, this awesome structure counts a whopping 145 meters in height and bridges a wide crest on the Senqunyane River of more than 700 meters in total!

12. Mafeteng

Once a hot point of conflict during the Gun Wars of the late 19th century, and then subsequently a working mill town, little Mafeteng makes its home south of the Basotho capital and close to the border with South Africa to the west.

A place at once industrial and historic, it’s known for its flair for local famo music, and has a clutch of good hotels, local eateries and bars besides.

Mafeteng is also a convenient stopover if you’re making a beeline for the border at Wepener, or going deeper into the mountains, to spots like Malealea, or to the cultural attractions of Morija just to the north.

13. Teyateyaneng

The gateway to the great mountains of the Berea District, where ancient San tribal cave paintings hide between the rocks and monolith villages – still inhabited, mind you – emerge from the dusty cliffs, Teyateyaneng (often conveniently referred to as just T.Y) is one of Lesotho’s more enthralling and interesting highway towns.

It’s known for its earthy local craft markets, which boom with wood carvings and traditional costumes throughout the week.

There are also weaving galleries and the occasional mountain tavern to enjoy.

And the city is a great option for further explorations into Ha Kome and Hlotse.

Famed for its other moniker – the Selibeng sa Thut – Morija is something like Lesotho’s answer to England’s Cambridge or the US’s Massachusetts.

Long a center for learning, it’s considered the go to place to unravelling the mysteries and histories of the Basotho culture and past.

The main institution has to be the acclaimed Morija Museum and Archives, which contains fascinating relics that detail episodes of the Gun Wars, the Boer War and English colonialism in these parts.

The town is also the host of an annual arts and culture event, which brings traditional dance, live music and performances to the streets.

15. Sehlabathebe National Park

The paradise on the tops of the Maloti Mountains, Sehlabathebe National Park occupies around 68 square kilometers on the very roof of Lesotho.

It’s actually joined at the hip with the Maloti-Drakensberg Park National Park across the border in South Africa, and boasts the same breathtaking vistas of rolling highland savannah, wild flower meadows and verdant valleys overlooked by craggy faces of primeval stone.

Intrepid travelers flock here to ride across the plateaus on horseback, encounter semi-nomadic tribal peoples, and embark on some of the most beautiful trekking trails in the entire Qacha’s Nek region.

15 Best Places to Visit in Lesotho:

• Tsehlanyane National Park
• Butha-Buthe
• Thaba Bosiu
• Teyateyaneng
• Sehlabathebe National Park

The 15 Best Things to Do in Lesotho

BartCo / Getty Images

Completely enclosed by South Africa and spanning just over 11,500 square miles, Lesotho is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor. However, there are many reasons to visit the Kingdom in the Sky; so-called because it is the only independent state on Earth that lies entirely above 1,000 meters (3,281 feet). The Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains that range across much of the east and central sections of the country lend Lesotho the Alpine climate and astonishing mountain scenery for which it is best known. Explore these magnificent landscapes on foot or horseback; stopping at villages where smiling people still wear traditional Basotho attire.

Looking for other ways to spend your time? Here’s our choice of the best things to do in Lesotho. 

Drive the Jaw-Dropping Sani Pass

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For many visitors, Lesotho is a natural addition to a larger South African itinerary . Instead of flying between the two countries, consider hiring an all-wheel-drive vehicle and cross the land border via the notorious Sani Pass. This spectacularly scenic gravel road connects Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal with Mokhotlong, Lesotho, and climbs 4,370 vertical feet via a series of hair-raising switchbacks. Advisable for experienced off-road drivers only, the pass boasts some of the most beautiful vistas in Southern Africa and also affords the opportunity to stop for a drink at Sani Mountain Lodge (better known as the Highest Pub in Africa). 

Go Hiking in Tsehlanyane National Park

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Located roughly in the center of the country amid the southern Maloti Mountains, Tsehlanyane National Park is the most accessible of Lesotho’s two national parks. Come to admire its breathtaking sub-Alpine scenery, including crystal clear highland rivers, plunging waterfalls, and montane landscapes dotted with indigenous fynbos. The park is best explored via an extensive network of hiking and riding trails, while wildlife to look out for ranges from the eland (the world’s largest antelope) to one of Lesotho’s biggest birding draws, the endangered bearded vulture. Trails start from Maliba Lodge , which also offers the only five-star accommodation in the country. 

Discover Fantastic Rock Formations at Sehlabathebe

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Lesotho’s other national park is remote Sehlabathebe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the eastern border with South Africa. Here, the jagged peaks of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg escarpment provide a dramatic backdrop for geological wonders that range from soaring arches and deep caves to towering pinnacles and isolated outcrops. All were formed by erosion processes that have taken place over millions of years. Top activities include hiking, riding, fly fishing, and visiting the 65 ancient rock art sites located within the park’s borders. November to February is the best time to visit to catch Sehlabathebe’s annual wildflower blooms. 

Learn From Ha Baroana’s Ancient Rock Art

Courtesy of Visit Lesotho

If you love Sehlabathebe’s rock art sites, be sure to visit Ha Baroana as well. Located in the west near Matela village, the name of this site translates as “Home of the Bushmen,” a reference to the people of the San tribe who once dwelled in this area and were descendants of Africa’s earliest people. The paintings are all found on a massive sandstone wall that overhangs the Liphiring River. Paintings of sacred eland are most common, although hunters and their prey are also depicted. The oldest paintings are thought to be 2,000 years old. Ha Baroana is an easy one-hour drive from Maseru. 

Add to Your Birding Life List at Lake Letsie

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Keen birders should definitely make the trip to Lake Letsie , the largest freshwater lake in Lesotho and the country’s only Ramsar wetland site. Part of Letsang-la-Letsie Nature Reserve, the lake attracts many different waterbird species. It’s also surrounded by grassland that provides an important habitat for specials like the blue crane and southern bald ibis; while the fringing foothills offer opportunities to spot endemics like the Drakensberg rock jumper and the Drakensberg siskin. Summer is the best time to visit for a chance of catching seasonal migrants, while the closest accommodation is a two-hour drive away at Mount Moorosi Chalets .

Marvel at the Mighty Maletsunyane Falls

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Centrally located in the heart of Lesotho, Maletsunyane Falls is arguably one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Africa . A single cataract on the Maletsunyane River, it plunges in an unbroken veil from the top of a sheer escarpment surrounded by impossibly green foothills. With a drop of 630 feet, it’s also one of the tallest single-dropping waterfalls in the world. Nearby Semonkong Lodge offers many ways to experience Maletsunyane in all its glory, from guided hikes and treks to the summit, to the famous waterfall abseil. The latter holds the Guinness World Record for the longest commercially operated single-drop abseil in the world. 

Fly Fish for Trout at Semonkong Lodge

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Semonkong Lodge is a hub for many outdoor activities. In addition to its waterfall abseil, it is especially known as a fly fishing base . From here, you can join guided day trips and multi-day fishing expeditions to two distinct fishing areas. The first (the river above the falls) is famous for its trophy-sized wild brown trout. The second (below the falls) offers the opportunity to catch the Lesotho “grand slam” in a single day: brown trout, rainbow trout, and yellowfish. All fishing is conducted on a catch-and-release basis, and permits can be purchased from the lodge reception. 

Take a Boat Trip and Visit the Botanical Garden at Katse Dam

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Many of the country’s trophy trout are bred in fish farms on the Katse Dam, an impressive man-made lake in central Lesotho. Impounded by the second-largest dam of its kind in Africa, the lake covers almost 15 square miles when full. Head to the visitor’s center to arrange a boat trip or a guided tour of the dam wall; leaving plenty of time in your schedule for a wander through the Katse Botanical Garden . Populated by rare Afro-Alpine plants, it boasts more than 500 indigenous species including the Lesotho lily and the spiral aloe, Lesotho’s national flower. 

Walk in the Footsteps of Dinosaurs at Subeng River

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The rural town of Leribe on Lesotho’s northwest border is famous amongst paleontologists for its fossilized dinosaur footprints . Imprinted into the sandstone rocks along the Subeng River, the footprints were discovered in 1955 and are believed to belong to at least three different dinosaur species. Some experts hypothesize that the marks could have been made by as many as six species. To reach the site, drive roughly 4.3 miles north out of town until you see the signpost for the prints; then pay M50 to the local man who owns the land to gain access to the river. 

Visit the Cave Dwellings of Ha Kome Village

Amada44, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For an insight into Lesotho’s human history, pay a visit to Ha Kome Village near the western town of Teyateyaneng. Here, descendants of the country’s Basia tribe continue to live in the cave dwellings in which their ancestors first sought refuge during the Lifaqane Wars of the early 19th century. Known as Mfecane in South Africa, this period saw widespread conflict between the tribes of Southern Africa , with several wiped out completely and others in Lesotho driven to cannibalism by drought and famine. For more information, book a guided tour of the cave dwellings at the Kome Crafts and Information Center. 

Tour the Architectural Highlights of Maseru

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More conventional homes are found in Maseru, Lesotho’s capital, largest city, and primary gateway. Some of the city’s edifices are of significant architectural interest. These include the sandstone buildings leftover from Maseru’s time as the administrative center of the Basutoland colony; including the Resident Commissioner’s House and Our Lady of Victories Cathedral. The most interesting building of African origin is the Mokorotlo Building, designed to resemble the traditional woven Basotho hat of the same name. The Mokorotlo Building houses an important local crafts cooperative and is a great place to purchase souvenirs. 

Explore the Former Royal Capital of Thaba Bosiu

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Before Maseru, the capital of the Sotho Kingdom was Thaba Bosiu, located approximately half an hour away by car. The former capital was founded in 1824, when Moshoeshoe (father of the Sotho Kingdom) climbed up to the mountain plateau and realized that it offered the perfect natural stronghold from which to defend his people during the Lifaqane Wars. Today, visitors can view Moshoeshoe’s partially restored royal compound and also tour the Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village with its replica traditional Sotho homesteads and an excellent museum. Accommodation in the village can be booked via its website.

Experience Snow in Africa at Afriski Mountain Resort

Afriski Mountain Resort makes the unlikely possible with full-service snowsport facilities including slopes for all abilities, ski lifts, and modern snow-making machines for when nature needs some help. You can rent all your equipment for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing from the rental shop, or sign up for lessons at the Mountain Ski & Snowboard School. The resort also boasts the only freestyle snow park in Africa, with jumps, rails, and boxes for the experienced boarder. With accommodation and a lively après-ski scene on-site, you're invited to stay as long as you like. 

Shop for Local Crafts in Teyateyaneng

Paul / CC BY-NC 2.0 / Flickr

Located an hour’s drive northeast of Maseru, Teyateyaneng was founded towards the end of the 19th century by King Moshoeshoe’s son. Today, this busy market town is best known among visitors as the premier place to shop for authentic, handmade, traditionally Basotho crafts. These are sold at a series of different craft cooperatives, including Lesotho Mountain Cooperative and Elelloang Basali. Look for intricately woven straw mokorotlo hats as well as wool and mohair products dyed in a rainbow of different colors. To have your choice of shopping venues, be sure to visit from Monday to Saturday as some places close on Sundays. 

Sample Traditional Basotho Cooking

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While Lesotho isn't famous culinary destination, the local fare is quite delicious. Basotho cooking is typically simple, with a focus on preserved vegetables and starches that are both filling and cheap. Pap, a stiff porridge made from maize or corn, is a staple throughout Southern Africa, as is traditional borotho bread. These are typically served with grilled meats or slow-cooked stews, with oxtail and chicken being the most popular flavors for the latter. For vegetarians, butha-buthe soup is a must-try, featuring spinach and tangerine and typically served with a dollop of yogurt.

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Africa Tours and Safaris

Tailor-made Luxury African Safari Tours

There are so many ways to experience an African safari. Besides the prime attraction of wildlife viewing, can you picture yourself on a canoe on the Lower Zambezi River? Is that you with the wind in your hair on a horseback adventure through Lesotho or Malawi ? For sunshine, golden sand beaches, and pure tropical bliss will you make your way to Mozambique , or the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and Seychelles ? Traverse different arid zones: the Kalahari in Botswana and Namibia ’s Damaraland. There are also spectacular liquid landscapes: Lake Victoria in Tanzania is Africa’s largest lake, ideal for a pre-safari leisurely cruise, while Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe -Zambia border is a thundering sight to behold. And who’d have imagined there would be snow-capped mountains in Uganda !

These are some of the top reasons to visit Africa , but we can tailor our suggestions to match your specific preferences and interests.

There are a thousand other reasons to visit Africa, but we’d like to tailor our suggestions to your specific likes and interests. You could begin in the Masai Mara , and end at an intimate camp in Zambia . From Kenya to Kruger National Park in South Africa , Enchanting Travels knows the lay of the land, and can plan exactly the kind of luxury African safari you want.

Not just the Big Five, you could meet Rwanda ’s endangered mountain gorillas and the almost comical meerkats of Etosha National Park in Namibia . For a taste of a cultural village, it could be the Ezulwini Valley of ESwatini ( Swaziland) , or a traditional fishing village in Mozambique. This is the continent to go to for a life-changing vacation.

Popular Trips to Africa

Luxury Kenya: Walking Safaris and Beaches

Marvel at the assorted treasures of Kenya’s wilderness on this customizable journey, which takes you through Laikipia, Masai Mara and the Kenyan Coast. The highlight of your trip is a memorable three-day walking safari across the vast open plains of the Laikipia region. As you make your way from the ancient campsite of Nayasura to…

Tanzania: Safaris, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar

Discover the best of Tanzania on this customizable 17-day journey. Go on thrilling game drives through the Central Serengeti, Arusha, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks to spot lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, baboons and more. The region is also home to 400 species of birds, which makes it an amazing place for birdwatchers as well….

Best of Imperial Morocco

Delve into Morocco’s fascinating history and culture on this lovely self-drive tour. Explore the fabled port city of Casablanca, and marvel at the architectural wonders of three of Morocco’s Imperial Cities – Rabat, Fes and Marrakesh. Walk through quaint neighborhoods, soak in the ambience of bustling markets, and sample the irresistible local street food. Experience…

South Africa: Cape Town, Kruger and Victoria Falls

This immersive tour of South Africa blends history and wildlife, and includes a visit to the magnificent Victoria Falls. Explore landmarks in and around Cape Town, enjoy Big Five safaris and get up close to the waterfalls in Zimbabwe.

Treasures of Northern Tanzania

This nine-day tour takes you through some of Tanzania’s finest wildlife reserves. Keep an eye out for lions, zebras, elephants and more as you explore Tarangire, Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro.

Kenya Safari: Masai Mara, Ol Pejeta And Solio

Visit Kenya’s iconic wildlife reserve and hidden gems! Ol Pejeta has the highest density of wildlife while Solio is home to rhinos and lots more. Round off your experience with Big Five safaris in Masai Mara.

Africa is a spectacular continent with jaw-dropping wildlife, stunning landscapes, wonderful people and fascinating culture – you will not be the same after your visit! No matter your interests or travel style, we can tailor your itinerary to provide you with an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Anna Thomas

Senior Travel Consultant

From Our Experts: Exploring Africa

Best Places To Visit

Resting silently in the arid grassland are a pair of black-maned Kalahari lions. On a Botswana luxury safari, this is not unexpected.

Tombs, temples, and thirty centuries of dramatic history come to life on your Egypt vacation.

From the sky above or at ground level, travel through Kenya is full of inspiring sights. Soaring above the Masai Mara in a hot-air balloon at dawn, the views are jaw-dropping.

Less visited than its African neighbors, Malawi is an uncrowded, geographically distinct travel destination.

Luscious blue lagoons and coconut palms swaying on golden beaches are taken for granted on a Mauritius tour.

On your Morocco vacation you’ll travel from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert, from ancient city to Andalusian village, experiencing varied landscapes, rich history, and great diversity.

On Africa’s east coast, Mozambique promises 1,500 miles of pristine coastline, where the warm waters of the Indian Ocean lap against unspoiled beaches.

Modern Windhoek with its greenery and European architecture may be the starting point for a Namibia holiday, but much of this country is arid.

A family of mountain gorillas, led by a silverback, munches on leaves just meters away from you in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

On a Seychelles vacation there is no rush, no pressing to-do list, no sense of urgency. Instead, it’s all about days filled with quietude, stunning land and seascapes, and unobtrusive pampering.

Unscripted game viewing is the highlight of a holiday in South Africa. A pride of lions idles in the grass at Kruger National Park.

South Africa

Traveling to Tanzania takes you to the heart of the African wilderness. Here a cheetah feeds her fuzzy little cubs, there a herd of elephants grazes with snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.

If you’re willing to go the extra mile and venture where few visitors do, choose our luxury Uganda safaris.

Wildlife is at your fingertips when you travel through Zambia. A pride of lionesses stalks a herd of zebra as you look on from your safari vehicle.

To travel to Zimbabwe is to understand what it means to be wild at heart. At night, the sound of a hippo grunting rises up from the river at Mana Pools National Park.

Best Time To Visit

Africa experiences diverse climates across its length and breadth so the best time to travel to Africa depends on your interests. Whether it’s visiting Cape Town in South Africa, meeting endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda, or off the beaten track experiences in destinations such as Savute and Linyanti in Botswana, discover the best time to visit.

Best Time for Safaris

Whether it’s classic safaris in Masai Mara or luxury camping in remote Etosha National Park, self-drive tours in Kruger or wildlife viewing on a Zambezi river cruise, African safari tours can be life-changing. Plan the ideal wildlife safari in Africa by combining several destinations and unique experiences with our guide to the best time for safaris in Africa by region.

Things To Do

From rolling savannas to thundering waterfalls and thousands of animals roaming freely through vast, ancient lands, Africa tours offer fantastic bucket-list experiences. Discover the top ten highlights of Africa as recommended by our destination experts, including the Great Migration in the Serengeti, luxury safaris on the Okavango Delta, Cape Town and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

The “best” African safari depends on what you wish to see and do. Africa has a huge diversity of destinations and experiences – while Kenya’s Maasai Mara offers the Great Migration safari, Namibia’s Etosha National Park has rare, desert-adapted animals. Botswana’s Chobe National Park is home to huge herds of elephants, while South Africa’s Sabi Sands offers luxury safari lodges and Big Five sightings. Each has its unique charm and offers different experiences at different times of the year.  With their deep destination knowledge, our travel consultants can help you plan an ideal trip that matches your budget and expectations for an unforgettable luxury African safari.

The cost of a luxury African safari can vary widely depending on where you choose to go and for how long, your accommodations, and activities included in your trip. Our private Africa vacations include all aspects of your trip except flights, and start from 5,000 per person on an average. While our sample trips provide inspiration and showcase what an African safari with us would offer, each trip is completely customized by our travel consultants to match your specific requirements and budget.

Yes. A luxury African safari tour can be done very safely. When you travel with us, your safety and well-being are our top priorities.  All our accommodations and vehicles are regularly tested for the highest health and safety standards, and we offer licensed local guides and partners who strictly adhere to wildlife viewing regulations. Our safari destinations have relatively stable environments and good wildlife management systems and we have trusted teams on-the-ground to monitor and assist in case of emergencies. Throughout your trip, you also have access to a dedicated trip coordinator who takes care of all the details.  While we urge you to take some precautions, our team is constantly available to guide you, and plan and execute your trip in the safest way possible.

The first step to planning a luxury African safari tour is to get in touch with us, either through our booking form or by calling us at  +1 888 263 2574 . Our travel consultants take the time to understand your individual safari style and suggest destinations and activities based on your interests and preferences. If you already know which destinations you wish to visit, we work with you to tailor a private tour itinerary that includes all travel details such as accommodations, excursions, transfers and bookings. Once you are completely satisfied, we go ahead and book your safari so all you need to do is sit back and look forward to your trip.

This too, is very subjective and depends on your preferences. Africa is a vast continent with several fantastic safari destinations. We recommend that you keep the following in mind while planning your trip:

• The time of the year when you wish to visit
• The destinations or countries that you want to visit
• Your must-do activities and experiences in these destinations
• The right luxury safari lodge or camp for your group

Read more about  choosing the right safari destination  or get in touch with us through our booking form or by calling  +1 888 263 2574  for more information and advice on choosing the right safari trip for you.

A luxury African safari is an unforgettable experience that offers you the perfect balance of comfort with unparalleled adventure.  Expect luxurious accommodation at boutique safari lodges and camps with stunning views. Hand-picked for their personalized service and unique location, our accommodations offer you insightful wildlife encounters with highly knowledgeable guides and trackers, often showcasing the African Big Five animals and countless other species. You can experience a range of activities – from day and night game drives to helicopter safaris, hot air balloon rides, boat cruises, guided bush walks, horseback riding or even wild spa treatments, with a team of experts. At the end of each day, roaring bonfires and gourmet meals await you.  From the moment you land until your departure, every detail is taken care of and each experience tailored to your interests so you can fully immerse yourself in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

While packing for an African safari, we recommend that you take light, neutral-colored clothing to blend in. Carrying layers as well as long-sleeved shirts, light pants and a warm jacket is a good idea as temperatures can vary out in the wild. Other essentials include sun hats, sun protection with high SPF, insect repellent such as DEET, comfortable and sturdy walking shoes and any medicines that you may need. If you are visiting cities such as Cape Town you may want to carry some evening wear as well. It is important to pack light due to limited luggage space while traveling, especially on bush flights. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars and a good camera.  Read more about  what to pack for your safari  or get in touch with our destination experts for tips on packing for specific destinations and weather.

An African safari offers a diverse range of fantastic activities and experiences. Here are some of the most popular activities in Africa.

• The biggest draw is Big Five animal encounters in classic safari destinations such as Kruger National Park, Masai Mara and the Serengeti.
• Guided bush walks and  walking safari tours  in places such as Laikipa offer you a chance to discover the land and its flora and fauna in-depth.
• Cultural encounters with local communities such as the Himba of Kaokoland in Namibia, the Batwa community in Uganda or the Maasai of Kenya, offer insights into their traditional lifestyles.
• Hot air balloon rides  in the early morning provide a unique perspective of the landscape and offer unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities from above.
• Gorilla trekking  in the impenetrable forests of Rwanda and Uganda
• Boat safaris in the Nyerere, Tanzania , or  mokoro rides in the Okavango Delta  showcase aquatic wildlife and shy, hidden creatures inhabiting these water bodies.
• Night game drives at private reserves such as Sabi Sands are a great way to meet the nocturnal creatures of the land. 
• Relaxing on the  paradise beaches of the Seychelles , Mauritius or Zanzibar at the end of your safari

Overall, an African safari promises a rich array of experiences that connect you with nature and diverse cultures. Learn more about some of the  best things to do in Africa  from our experts.

The best time of the year to go on a luxury African safari trip depends on where you want to go and what you wish to do. While the Great Migration in East Africa happens from July through November, where you can see the animals depends on which month you choose to visit. The months of July to December are great for whale watching in South Africa while gorilla trekking is best during the dry months.  Find more information on the  best time to visit Africa  by destination or get in touch with us through our booking form or at  +1 888 263 2574  to plan a perfectly timed African safari.

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The Enchanting Difference

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Our award-winning, licensed local guides provide incredible insights and exclusive experiences for you.

Personalized & Private

Our experts completely customize your private tour to match your interests and preferences.

High-Quality Experiences

All our accommodations and services are personally tested by our team.

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You’ll have a personal and dedicated trip coordinator, backed by 24/7 support in case of emergencies while you’re traveling.

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Lesotho Travel Guide

Travel & Tourism

Small though it is, Lesotho is packed with great things to see and do. You can ride a pony through the mountains, walk in the footprints of dinosaurs along a riverbed, and even go skiing. Lesotho is entirely surrounded by South Africa, but despite its location inside Africa’s powerhouse, Lesotho remains its own country with its own unique, dynamic personality. The country is noted for its mountainous landscape; it is the only nation in the world with an elevation entirely above 1,400 meters. Commit to spending a few days, or even a week or two, in Lesotho, and you will have a remarkable experience. And when you’re ready to move on, choose any direction, put your walking shoes on, and start exploring South Africa.

What to Do in Lesotho

1. Malealea:  The village of Malealea is situated in some of Lesotho’s most majestic and mountainous landscapes. Pony treks are available, as are guided day trips, but we recommend staying overnight.

2. Sehlabathebe National Park:  With its awesome hiking trails, sandstone rock formations, and miles of beautiful landscape, Lesotho’s first national park warrants a visit. Traveling to the park requires the use of a four-by-four, and we recommend hiring a guide to show you around. You can ride a pony along the paths to see the park’s waterfalls and rare birds; you can stay the night in the park’s accommodations, or take along a tent and camp out.

3. Thaba-Bosiu:  Located 15 miles (24 kilometers) east of Maseru and considered the greatest historical site in the country, Thaba-Bosiu is the flat-topped mountain where the Basotho nation originated. This is where Moshoeshoe sought refuge from attacking forces, and it is said that the mountain was never conquered. At the bottom of the hill, there is a visitor center where you can find a guide to take you to the top of the mountain and teach you the site’s detailed history.

4. Mokhotlong:  Situated at the top of the Drakensberg Ridge, Mokhotlong is one of the country’s most remote regions, as well as one of its poorest. We recommend hiring a guide in Maseru to show you around Mokhotlong: despite its economic condition, Mokhotlong is stunning and serene. Because of its remote location, traveling alone in the area is not recommended.

5. Sani Top Chalet:  We highly recommend this spot—no pun intended, okay?—as Sani Top Chalet is Africa’s highest pub. Situated between the border of Lesotho and South Africa along the Drakensberg Ridge, the chalet is accessible only by four-by-four. Once you are at the Sani Pass, you can spend the night, have a meal, and enjoy the view at 9,429 feet (2,874 meters) above sea level. ((033) 702 1069)

6. Semonkong Falls:  Reached by a 3 mile (5 kilometer) walk along the Maletsunyane River, the Semonkong Falls are an amazing sight, as they mark the single highest drop in all southern Africa. A visit to the falls makes for a great day hike.

7. Subeng River’s Dinosaur Footprints:  Few pursuits are more remarkable than tracking dinosaur footprints along a riverbed. Located just north of Hlotse (also called Leribe) are the Subeng River dinosaur footprints. Follow the signs, and have a blast walking exactly where those creatures did.

8. Oxbow Skiing:  Just beyond the Moten Pass is Oxbow, a village with a .9 miles (1.5-kilometer) ski slope. It’s not the Alps, but don’t discount it. The snowfall can be erratic, so the best time of year to visit Oxbow is in July and August. A bus travels daily between Mokhotlong and Butha Butha, stopping in Oxbow along the way. There is also a lodge in Oxbow where you can stay the night.

9. Maseru:  While many travelers skip Lesotho’s capital city, we think it is definitely worth your while. Shopping and restaurants are easy to find, and the surrounding hills are great for hiking.

10. Maliba Mountain Lodge:  Pamper yourself at the most luxurious lodge in all Lesotho. Situated in the mountainous terrain of Tsehlanyane National Park, Maliba Mountain Lodge has the world’s highest subalpine botanical garden, an open viewing deck, a restaurant bar, and Basotho-style chalet rooms. There are hiking trails and pony rides just a few minutes away, and the views from the rooms are breathtaking.

11. Thabana Ntlenyana: Thabana Ntlenyana, which means “Beautiful little mountain” in Sesotho, is the highest point in Lesotho and the highest mountain in southern Africa. It is situated on the Mohlesi ridge of the Drakensberg/Maloti Mountains, north of Sani Pass. It stands at 3,482 metres (11,424 ft) high.

The peak is usually climbed by groups completing a Grand Traverse of the Drakensberg, although the peak is technically in the Maloti Mountains.

12. Moteng Pass: Enjoy the thrill of the Moteng pass. A steep tarred pass in the Maloti mountains of Lesotho, reaching a height of 2820 metres. It is one of two passes that links the town of Butha-Buthe with the diamond mining town of Mokhotlong, the other pass being the Mahlasela pass. A beautiful pass to drive, but be vigilant during winter as the road gets very slippery.The pass is 7.9 km long, with the last stage being extremely dangerous in winter due to patches of ice. It’s one of the highest mountain roads of Lesotho.

13. Morija Museum: The Morija Museum, is located in Morija village in the Maseru district of Lesotho. It was formally opened in 1956, and entered its present permanent facilities in 1989. The purpose of the museum is to carry on the tradition of Morija, as a centre of learning, innovation and excellence, in Lesotho. It’s home to many cultural treasures including, traditional Basotho artifacts as well as Lifaqane and Boer War memorabilia.

The weather in Lesotho can be unpredictable: the country is likely to have snow, rain, and high temperatures during the summer. Most of the country’s rainfall occurs during the summer months (October through April); January and February are the hottest months. We recommend planning your trip during January and February, but good weather can be experienced year-round.

Getting In and Around

Visas:  Make sure your passport is valid for six months past your last day in Lesotho. If your visit to Lesotho is shorter than 30 days, no visa is required.

Transportation:  If you are entering Lesotho from South Africa, it’s best to travel by train. There are also roads linking the two countries, but they’re not always in the best condition. Regardless, car services are available in South Africa to take you to Lesotho. Moshoeshoe I International Airport is located in Maseru and is accessible through flights via South Africa.

Taxis and minibuses are readily accessible in Lesotho’s main cities. As is true in many African countries, the minibuses are inexpensive but can be crowded; be prepared to feel cramped during your ride. There are also buses that travel between cities for a reasonable price. Make sure you establish the price of the trip before you depart.

If expense is not an issue, we recommend hiring a taxi to drive you between cities. Ask your hotel staff for their recommendation of a reputable taxi service.

Mobile Phones:  The most convenient way to stay connected is with a SIM card–enabled phone. You can purchase one cheaply in Lesotho or take one along. Airtime cards are sold all around the country.

Safety and Security

Concerned about your safety as you plan travel to Lesotho? We at Africa.com, together with our friends, family and colleagues, travel extensively throughout the continent. Here are the resources we consult when thinking of our safety in Lesotho:

•  UK Government Lesotho Travel Advice Guidance

Africa.com comment: Very timely and frequently updated. Perspective assumes that you ARE going to travel to Lesotho, and seeks to give you good guidance so that you understand the risks and are well informed.

•  U.S. State Department Travel Advisory on Lesotho

Africa.com comment: Can sometimes be considered as overly conservative and discourage travel altogether to destinations that many reasonable people find acceptably secure. On the other hand, they have the resources of the CIA to inform them, so they know things that the rest of us don’t know. See what they have to say about Lesotho.

Local Advice

1. Lesotho is a landlocked country, completely surrounded by South Africa. The capital of the country, Maseru, is also the capital of the Maseru District, one of the country’s ten districts.

2. The currency of Lesotho is the loti (maloti is the plural form of the word). There are 100 lisente in every loti. The symbol for the loti is L.

3. While radio is the most popular means of disseminating news in Lesotho, a few newspapers are published in the nation, including the Public Eye, The Mirror, Makatolle, and MoAfrica.

4. The official language of Lesotho is English. Many people also speak Sesotho (the designation is drawn from the country’s eopnym), Xhosa, Phuthi, and Zulu.

5. No public smoking ban exists in Lesotho.

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15 Awesome Things to Do in Lesotho + Essential Guide

Lovely little Lesotho, surrounded by South Africa. Also known as the “Kingdom in the Sky”, Lesotho is a small (read: tiny) landlocked country in southern Africa. 

Despite its diminutive size, Lesotho is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the rugged and majestic mountains to its unique cultural encounters, Lesotho has so much to offer the intrepid traveller. And not to mention, it’s completely off the beaten track. 

Want to explore Lesotho for yourself? Good on you! Read on for 14 awesome things to do in Lesotho, one of Africa’s top hidden gems. 

Lesotho Travel Resources

• Getting there: search for flights to Lesotho
• Where to stay: search for hostels and hotels
• Rent a car: search for deals on car rentals
• Get around: hire a top-rated driver to get around Lesotho
• Travel insurance: get travel insurance for your trip
• Money: get a Wise travel card to save big-time
• Tours: check out the best Lesotho tours

Table of Contents

Kingdom of Lesotho: Fast Facts

• Capital: Maseru
• Area: 30,355 sq km
• Population: 2.2 million
• Languages: Sesotho, English

Things to Do in Lesotho #1: Take a Drive up Sani Pass

Sani Pass is probably one of the most popular things to do in Lesotho and probably the best-known Lesotho attraction. 

What is Sani Pass, you ask? Well, Sani Pass is a scenic mountain pass connecting Lesotho to South Africa. It is a popular destination for 4×4 enthusiasts and offers stunning views of the surrounding Drakensberg Mountains, scattered amongst its generous serving of hairpin turns.

The road straddles that fine line between terrifying and exciting in the most brilliant way possible, making a drive up Sani Pass easily one of the best things to do in Lesotho. 

Don’t have your own 4×4? No sweat. Being such a popular Lesotho attraction, there are heaps of tours heading up Sani Pass . Check out the best ones here . 

Read: How to Conquer Sani Pass

Things to Do in Lesotho #2: Explore Maletsunyane Falls

Now, we’re not ones for hyperbole, but Maletsunyane Falls is epic. We loved it and thought it completely lived up to the hype and is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Lesotho. 

Located a short drive (or hike or pony trek) from Semonkong village, Maletsunyane Falls is one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in Africa. The waterfall drops 192 meters into a pool below, creating a spectacular sight.

In a hurry? Check out Maletsunyane Falls as part of a 3-day tour of Lesotho

Visitors can (and should) hike to the bottom of the falls for an awesome perspective of this impressive natural wonder. It’s a fun and adventurous thing to do in Lesotho. The hike, which has a few steep and slippery sections, can be arranged through a local guide (arranged in the neighbouring village or at Semkong Lodge) or done independently (the trail can be found on Wikiloc and maps.me ). 

For anyone looking to dial the experience up to an 11, It’s also possible to abseil down the falls. At 204 meters, top to bottom, it holds the world record for the longest commercially operated single-drop abseil in the world. No big deal. 

Pro tip: If you have a 4×4, you can score yourself the most epic camping spot overlooking the falls, for free!

If you don’t have your own wheels, or just like your activities more on the organised side, then check out this great tour to Maletsunyane Falls from Maseru .

Read our full guide on Maletsunyane Falls

Things to Do in Lesotho #3: Take in the Local Fashion 

After spending a year road-tripping around Africa, we’ve certainly seen some outstanding fashion choices. People in Africa love their fashion!

But we must say, the fashion in Lesotho is a cut above the rest. Its creativity, flamboyance and cultural adaptations are a sight to behold and we wouldn’t be surprised to see some of these styles replicated in a New York fashion show one day. Seriously, it’s that good! Just admiring how awesome locals look is a fun thing to do in Lesotho. 

While the styles vary slightly in detail, the centrepiece is always the traditional Basotho blanket. This is a thick woven blanket with unique designs that symbolise wealth, power and fertility. The blanket has been a staple on the Lesotho fashing scene since the 19th century when a British diplomat gifted one to the ruler King Moshoeshoe I.  The rest, my friends, is history.  

Sadly, as inspired as it was, I lacked the finesse to pull off one of these outfits. Also, I’m sure that would classify as cultural appropriation.   

Lesotho is best explored by road-tripping. Check out our epic 8-day Lesotho road trip itinerary .

Things to Do in Lesotho #4: Live It Up at the Maletsunyane Braai Festival 

If you’re a fan of braai (Southern African BBQ) and music, then the Maletsunyane Braai Festival is a great thing to do in Lesotho. Held annually on the last weekend of November, the braai festival takes place against the backdrop of Maletsunyane Falls. 

The event always features several prominent local and international musical acts and has a ton of delicious food stalls, making it one of the top Lesotho attractions. 

From Lesotho, be sure to visit Golden Gate Highland National Park in South Africa

Things to Do in Lesotho #5: Go Pony Trekking 

If there is one thing Lesotho is known for in Southern Africa, it’s its sturdy Basotho ponies. These ponies are well adapted to the rugged Lesotho mountains and make for an excellent way to take in all the beautiful places to visit in Lesotho.

Hopping on a pony for a few hours (or days) worth of riding is easily one of the most popular things to do in Lesotho.

Treks can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days and can be arranged pretty much anywhere, at any time, with no notice. Seriously, you could just rock up to a random village and manage to arrange a pony trek.

And if you’re really keen (and your bum is ready), you can even go on this 8-day/7-night pony trek . Respect! (Don’t worry, there’s also a 3-day option too .)

Want to get off the beaten track in South Africa? Read South Africa’s Top Hidden Gems

Things to Do in Lesotho #6: Support Community-Based Tourism at Malealea Lodge

Charming Malealea Lodge in Lesotho’s remote western highlands is a wonderful place to visit in Lesotho, not just for its beautiful surroundings but also for its well-executed community-based tourism model. 

Malealea Lodge offers excellent little rondavels, camping and heaps of activities. Proceeds from the lodge fund the Malealea Development Trust, which services several vital roles throughout the community, including educational initiatives, sustainable development projects and scholarship funds. This is a place to visit in Lesotho that makes a difference. Awesome! 

The lodge and community have a mutually beneficial and harmonious relationship, whereby the lodge benefits from the friendly and welcoming community and the community benefits through jobs created via the lodge. This adds to a really neat vibe.  Sadly, we only spent 1 night at Malealea Lodge, but really wish we could have stayed longer.

The lodge also offers lots of interesting activities such as organised hikes, mountain biking, pony trekking and community tours. They have a lot of fun things to do in Lesotho, all really well organised. 

The best thing on offer though? The nightly mini-concert that includes performances by a local choir and community band. It’s a really cool experience!  

Things to Do in Lesotho #7: Watch the World Go By From Semonkong Lodge

Semonkong Lodge , located a few kilometres from Maletsunyane Falls also ranks amongst the best (and popular) places to visit in Lesotho. Its quirky pub, the Duck and Donkey Tavern, offers an excellent location to post up and watch the world go by.

As the lodge is located on the edge of town, there are limitless people-watching opportunities and it’s a nice way to soak up the vibe. It’s more downtempo than adventurous, but still a great thing to do in Lesotho to just get an overall sense of the place. 

Semonkong Lodge also arranges many activities including hikes, pony trekking and community visits. 

Things to Do in Lesotho #8: Hit the Slopes at Afriski Mountain Resort

Yeah, you heard that right. If you visit Lesotho during the winter months (June to August), why not head to Afriski Mountain Resort in the Maluti Mountains for some skiing and snowboarding? 

It’s one of the few places in Africa where you can experience winter sports. Ok, Afriski is a small resort with limited runs and you’re not going to get anything on the scale of the Alps, but it’s also a really unique thing to do in Lesotho, so a visit here is worth considering.  

Things to Do in Lesotho #9: Grab a Drink at the Highest Pub in Africa 

Once you’ve gotten to the top of Sani Pass, be sure to stop for a drink at the Sani Mountain Lodge , the self-proclaimed highest pub in Africa and a rewarding place to visit in Lesotho. 

The Sani Mountain Lodge is a really cosy space that includes a lovely fireplace and sweeping views of the valley below. What better way to celebrate conquering the Sani Pass than stopping by and enjoying a beverage at this unique spot? Don’t worry, if you don’t drink, you can get a hot chocolate too. 

Be sure to bring a jacket because it’s cold up there. 

Things to Do in Lesotho #10: Check out Ancient Dinosaur Footprints 

Back in 2017, one of the largest dinosaur footprints ever found was discovered in Lesotho. Now, you can spot a couple of them too. There are a number of places to visit in Lesotho that have dinosaur footprints: Subeng River Dinosaur Footprints, Tsikoane Village Dinosaur Footprints and Quthing are some of the main sites. 

We visited the Subeng River Dinosaur Footprints. They’re somewhat eroded and some can be completely underwater, but you can see the outline, which is pretty neat. It’s not a mind-blowing thing to do in Lesotho, but it’s cute and by visiting, you’re supporting the local economy. 

If you stop at Subeng River Dinosaur Footprints on your own, budget around 50 LTL per person for the guide to show you. And yes, you do need the guide, because you won’t find them on your own. 

We’ve heard that some of the other sites can be more impressive – if you have visited these Lesotho attractions, please let us know in the comment below. 

Unless you’re really big into paleontology, we don’t recommend going out of your way to see the dinosaur footprints, but they’ll likely be on the way to wherever you’re going, so you may as well stop and take a peek. 

Things to Do in Lesotho #11: Go Camping and Hiking in Tselanyanye National Park 

Located in central Lesotho, Ts’ehlanyane National Park is known for its lush valleys and indigenous forest. Several hiking trails lead to waterfalls, caves and panoramic viewpoints, making a jaunt around here an excellent thing to do in Lesotho. 

If you’re coming from Sani Pass, the drive here is stunning. Entrance to the national park costs 50 LTL per person and 30 LTL per car (only paid once, upon entry). 

Inside the park is massive Maliba Lodge with rooms and rondavels if you want a bed for the night, but for the adventurous, there is an excellent riverside campsite (one of our favourite places to visit in Lesotho). 

Extra points if you can manage to pronounce the name of this national park!

Read our Essential Guide to Ts’ehlanyane National Park

Things to Do in Lesotho #12: Take an Authentic Community Tour 

Due to their isolation (i.e., being surrounded by mountains), the Basotho people in Lesotho have strongly retained their culture. It’s pretty evident and pretty awesome. Learning more about the Kingdom and the Basotho way of life is an awesome thing to do in Lesotho. 

You can learn about the Basotho culture through an insightful community tour. We highly recommend this as a thing to do in Lesotho. 

You can organise a tour almost anywhere, including o nl ine . We did ours through the Malealea Lodge and can highly recommend it. Our guide was super knowledgeable, friendly and did an excellent job enlightening us on small, fascinating cultural tidbits.

We learned about all kinds of interesting practices including the importance of village chiefs, funeral traditions, the use and significance of flags throughout Lesotho villages and, as an added bonus, we even got to sample some local beer.

Things to Do in Lesotho #13: Explore Thaba-Bosiu 

Thaba-Bosiu is another one of Lesotho’s attractions and a (relatively) popular place to visit in Lesotho. It is the most important historical site in Lesotho and therefore a top Lesotho attraction. 

Thaba-Bosiu is a sandstone plateau and a national monument that holds great historical significance for the Basotho people. It is considered the birthplace of the Basotho people and served as the mountain fortress of King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of Lesotho. 

You can supplement your Basotho knowledge by exploring the site and learning about Lesotho’s rich cultural and historical heritage. You can visit Thaba Bosiu independently or on this top-rated tour .

Things to Do in Lesotho #14: Get Out and Explore the Mountains! 

Lesotho’s (very cute) nickname is “the Kingdom in the Sky”, due to its high altitude and mountainous terrain. As such, the country is home to some of the most spectacular mountains in Southern Africa, making it a great place for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Except for a few hikes around Malealea and Sani Pass, the trails aren’t developed in the sense you might be used to (i.e., they’re non-existent) and to explore them you’ll have to be pretty self-sufficient and prepared.

But for the adventurous and intrepid, it’s an unspoiled paradise. You can literally head off into the hills and see where your feet take you. Set up a tent, or, in most Basotho villages, you can rent a hut for the night. Be sure to find the chief and ask for permission (even if camping). 

From Sani Pass, Thabana-Ntlenyana (3428m) is a popular full-day hike. For something a bit more hardcore, you can undertake a rugged 3 – 4 day trek to Sehlabathebe National Park. From  Ts’ehlanyane National Park, there is a 39 km hike through challenging terrain that leads to Bokong Nature Reserve. 

If you’d like more information on routes and options, Malealea Lodge is a useful resource for trekking in Lesotho. If you like your hikes well-organised, check out this epic 2-day hike , 3-day hike and 4-day hike through Lesotho villages.

Things to do in Lesotho #15: Did someone say Donkey Pub Crawl? 

That’s right, you heard me correctly. Take in Semonkong’s traditional and local entertainment in a truly unique way, riding a donkey. 

Visit a traditional beer brewing home and local bars all while learning about the local Basotho people, their music and dancing. Sounds like fun, right? 

How many times will you get the opportunity to do something like this? If your answer is “lots of times.” Well, that’s a bit weird, (but also awesome). 

The tours are arranged directly through Semonkong Lodge . 

Lesotho Travel: FAQS

Best time to visit lesotho .

The best time to visit Lesotho is from March to April and September. This is during the southern hemisphere autumn and spring. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing at the Lesotho attractions. 

Since Lesotho is at high altitude, from April to August, Lesotho is very cold. Need convincing? When we camped at Ts’ehlanyane National Park in April, we woke up to frost every morning. 

If you’re a fan of winter sports (and want to check out Afriski), then visit Lesotho during the winter months (June to August). 

The wet season, from November to March, can bring heavy rains and make some roads impassable. 

What to Pack for Lesotho

If travelling to Lesotho in the winter, it’ll be cold, so be sure to bring a warm jacket and layers. A rain jacket is useful at all times. Don’t forget good wa lking s hoes and a sturdy daypack , so you can explore all the awesome places to visit in Lesotho. 

If camping, then you’ll also want a good sl e eping bag (rated at least to -5C) to keep you warm. 

Pro tip: pack a Steripen . With this badboy, you never have to worry about clean drinking water ever again.

How to Travel to Lesotho 

The easiest (but most expensive) way to get to Lesotho is by flying into the capital city, Maseru . The Moshoeshoe I International Airport is the main airport in Lesotho and is served by several airlines. 

If you fly in, you can rent a car or join a tour to explore the country . It is more common, however, to hire a driver to get to all the wonderful places to visit in Lesotho.  If this is what you’re after, you can hire a top-rated driver here .

The most common (and cheapest) way to travel to Lesotho is by entering overland from South Africa.

Most travellers rent a car in either Johannesburg, Bloemfontein or Durban and cross by land. This way, you have your own set of wheels to explore all the awesome things to do in Lesotho. If possible, we highly recommend renting a 4×4 – you’ll have a lot more fun and be able to get to a lot more places. Trust us on this one.

Going to Joburg? Read 15 Awesome Things to Do in Johannesburg

There are 13 border crossings with South Africa, however, the most popular are at Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge – these can often have queues. 

Pro tip: use Discover Cars to find the best deals on rentals.

Where to Stay in Lesotho

Hands down, our two favourite places to stay in Lesotho are Semonkong Lodge and Malealea Lodge.

Here are some other top choices for where to stay in Lesotho.

Casa Tumi Thatched Cottages

Maliba Mountain Lodge

Seqonoka Villa Accommodation & Events Park

Mants’ebo Guest House Mokhotlong

Is Lesotho Safe to Visit?

Compared with neighbouring South Africa , Lesotho is very safe to visit. As with all places, petty crime does happen, however, the main problem is bag-snatching and pickpocketing in Maseru. Most of the crime happens in Masure and to be honest, there’s nothing worth keeping you there anyways. 

Outside of the capital, violent crime (or even crime) against travellers is rare. When we camped at Maletsunyane Falls and hiked to the bottom of the waterfall, we asked a local about leaving our car at the viewing point. His response? “There’s no crime here”. 

The biggest safety concerns in Lesotho are the roads and the terrible drivers. Never drive at night and drive defensively.

We also had a few issues with kids throwing rocks at our car and once, opening the passenger door whilst slowly crawling up a mountain pass. Lesson learned: keep your doors locked while driving.

Travel insurance, as always, is essential. If something goes wrong, you want to be covered. We use and recommend SafetyWing . Trust us, we’ve used a lot of travel insurance and they really are the best.

Related: Is Johannesburg Safe to Visit?

Is Lesotho Worth Visiting?

So, now that you’ve read about all the Lesotho attractions and places to visit in Lesotho, are you asking yourself, is Lesotho worth visiting?

Hell yes, it is! We loved Lesotho and highly recommend it to all intrepid travellers in Southern Africa.

For those who like adventure, culture, nature and offbeat destinations, it doesn’t get any better than Lesotho. You can hike, bike, ride a pony, and learn about a unique culture – all without any crowds. 

What are you waiting for?

Lesotho Travel Tips

• If you’re coming from South Africa (which, you probably are), you can use South African rand if you don’t want to use an ATM in Lesotho or change money. The South African rand is par with the Lesotho loti (LTL) and is accepted everywhere. 
• If you’re self-catering, stock up on supplies in South Africa before entering Lesotho. Roma and Maseru have okay supermarkets, but that’s about it. 
• Learn a couple of words in Sesotho. Well, try. It’s freakin hard to pronounce. “Dumela” is hello. 
• Sim cards are easy to obtain in Lesotho, but if you’re only going for a short bit and don’t want the hassle, remember to download some offline maps for navigation. 
• Petrol is marginally cheaper in Lesotho than in South Africa. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book anything through them, we’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us run this website and create comprehensive guides to help you get off the beaten track. We only recommend products and/or services that we use ourselves and trust. 

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Wild Junket

Lesotho Travel: My Detailed Guide and Itinerary

Last Updated on July 28, 2024

Lesotho travel is sure to surprise you – whether it’s your first or 100th time in Africa. Here’s my Lesotho travel guide and itinerary to help you plan a trip to this Kingdom in the Sky.

Completely landlocked and surrounded by South Africa is the small African nation of Lesotho (pronounced ‘leh-soo-too’). The small African nation is culturally rich, stunning, affordable and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg.

Yet the contrast with South Africa could not be more striking, with the Basotho people’s distinct personality and the terrain’s topographical extremes. Even a few days in Lesotho’s hospitable mountain lodges and trading posts will give you a fresh perspective on Southern Africa.

Often dubbed “the Kingdom in the Sky”, Lesotho is a largely mountainous country with lofty altitude — it has the highest lowest point of any country in the world (1400m) and is the only country to be entirely above 1000m!  For those planning a trip to this intriguing mountain nation, here is a complete guide with the best things to do, where to stay and where to eat, as well as details of my four-day itinerary in Lesotho.

Table of Contents

Where’s Lesotho?

History of lesotho, by car rental, when to travel to lesotho, how to get around lesotho, where to stay in lesotho, cost of travel in lesotho, day 1: drive into the maloti mountains, day 2: explore t’sehlanyane national park, day 3: drive to maseru, capital of lesotho, day 4: head back to johannesburg, what did we miss, what to pack for lesotho, enjoy your lesotho travel guide, lesotho travel guide.

Located in southern Africa, Lesotho is completely landlocked by South Africa . It’s one of the smallest countries in Africa. With a land area of approximately 30, 555 square kilometres, it is similar in size to Belgium.

Many travelers make a flying visit to Lesotho on their way to Kwazulu Natal, but it’s well worth lingering at least five days or a week. You can easily combine a trip to South Africa with Lesotho (and Swaziland ), like what we did. We spent 16 days in total, driving from Johannesburg to Swaziland and then continue south into Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa, and onto Lesotho, then back to Johannesburg.

Originally, the Basotho people lived in what is now Free State in neighboring South Africa. They were a farming people, and when the Zulus started attacking villages and the Voortrekkers started encroaching on their land, they fled up into the Lesotho mountains. Here, continuous attacks from the Zulus forced local tribes to join together for protection.

By 1824, King Moeshoeshoe had established himself as king. Moeshoeshoe allied himself with the British Colony government. Much fighting followed, forcing Moeshoeshoe to go straight to the Britisih government. In 1868, Basotholand (as it was then called) became a protectorate of the British Empire. It was granted independence from the British Empire on October 4th, 1966.

The Kingdom of Lesotho was formed through the pursuit of peace, and this peaceful nature still exists in the Basotho. They have always been calm and stable. People are especially grateful to Brits for saving them from apartheid!

How to Travel to Lesotho

Traveling to Lesotho is surprisingly easy. Unlike many other African countries, Lesotho allows citizens of most countries (US, UK, Canada and Australia) to enter visa-free. Nationals of Singapore, Japan, Israel and most African countries do not need a visa to stay in Lesotho for up to 90 days. Citizens of EU countries can enter visa-free for up to 14 days. Those who need a visa for Lesotho can apply for an e-visa here.

The only International airport of Lesotho is the Moshoeshoe Airport, located 18km from Maseru. South African Airways and Airlink operate daily flights between Maseru and Johannesburg , typically costing around 1400 LSL (Lesotho Loti), equivalent to US$100 each way. The flight cuts down a 5-hour car journey to just 55 minutes on the plane.

You should arrange taxi pick-up in advance as often there are no taxis at the airport. The best way is to get your hotel to arrange the transfer for you. Taxis charge around 50-80 LSL (US$3-6) to Maseru each way.

Check for Flights to Lesotho

For those without your own car, Vaal-Maseru runs a coach service between Johannesburg and Maseru. You can find the bus schedule here .  Minibuses run pretty much anywhere from the Maseru Bridge border, but you must get there early in the morning (07:00) as there may be only 1 bus a day.

The most popular way to travel into Lesotho from South Africa is overland via border crossings. The journey from Johannesburg to Maseru is just 5 hours by car. We booked our rental car online from Discover Cars . For the entire two-week trip in South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho, it only cost us just US$250 including a toddler car seat and all the permits we had to pay to drive the car across borders. Search for car rentals in Johannesburg here!

When taking a rented car, be sure to get permission from the rental company to take the car into Lesotho. You will need to show written permission from the rental company at border control. Be clear with your rental agency about what’s covered and what’s not in order to avoid unpleasant surprises.

The most popular border posts are Sani Pass, Ficksburg bridge, Caledonspoort, and Maseru bridge. Note that most borders close around 6pm, some as early as 4pm. Only Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge are open 24 hours. Check here for details of their operating hours.

On our way into Lesotho, we were lucky enough to find the Caledonspoort border rather empty. The border crossing took only around 10 minutes in total. But on our way out of Lesotho, there was quite a long line at Maseru Bridge – the most used crossing – in the early morning. We spent around one hour waiting in line on the Lesotho side to get our passports stamped.

Sani Pass is the most famous border post, because of the spectacular drive and unique high-altitude location. The legendary mountain road zigzags its way through the Drakensberg Mountains, and is a steep and challenging road to navigate.

After crossing the pass, most travelers will stop to have a drink at Africa’s highest bar. You can even stay overnight at the highest pub in Africa .

You can ONLY use the Sani Pass if you have a 4×4. If you’re not a confident driver, I suggest booking a Sani Pass tour to visit Sani Pass with knowledgable local guides.

Rent Your Car here!

We chose to travel Swaziland , South Africa and Lesotho in June, mainly for the mild winter climate and better wildlife opportunities. Read more on the best time to travel Lesotho .

June to September is the winter dry season in South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. During this period, there is less vegetation and animals are more concentrated around rivers and waterholes, making it easier to spot them. There are also fewer mosquitos.

However, it can get cold in the evenings especially since most of Lesotho is mountainous. That means you’ll need to bring a winter/down jacket. Temperatures in the lowlands range from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius, and in the mountains from 3 to 10 degrees Celsius. We mostly wore t-shirt and shorts or cargo pants during the day, plus a light jacket at night.

The best way to travel around Lesotho is by car rental. We booked our rental car online from Discover Car s . For the entire two-week trip in South Africa , Swaziland and Lesotho, it only cost us just US$250 including a toddler car seat and all the permits we had to pay to drive the car across borders.

Contrary to what most websites say, you DON’T need a 4×4 to drive into Lesotho. You only need a 4×4 to drive the Sani Pass. Most roads in Lesotho are relatively good, though certain stretches may have lots of potholes. Because the country is mountainous, be prepared for steep mountain roads, especially close to the border with South Africa. Still, we were absolutely fine traveling around Lesotho in a normal car.

Petrol can also be a problem — it is best to fill the tank in Maseru or in South Africa. Outside Maseru, unleaded can be very hard to find, and even LRP and diesel can be in short supply. If you’re not renting a car, the most common mode of transport is minibuses. 

Check for Car Rentals here!

Unlike neighboring South Africa , Lesotho has limited tourism infrastructure and there aren’t quite as many luxury hotels to choose from. You’ll find may midrange hotels in Maseru, but beyond that, there are a handful of accommodation choices in each town or area.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Lesotho that are worth checking out:

Maliba Lodge — Staying here was the highlight of our Lesotho trip! As the first and only five-star hotel in Lesotho, Maliba Lodge is an outstanding mountain retreat for those who truly want to escape. It is located in high altitudes of the pristine Tsehlanyane National Park. There are lots of hiking trails crisscrossing the area; the hotel also organizes community tours and pony treks. The lodge also has a kids’ club for young children. Read my full review here.

Check the latest rates

AVANI Maseru Hotel — Probably the best hotel in Maseru, this upscale hotel is great for those looking for modern comforts in the country’s capital. It’s located along the Caledon River, in the centre of Maseru, with easy access to the Pioneer Shopping Mall. There’s a large outdoor swimming pool, a thatched pool bar and restaurant in the hotel itself.

Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village   — Thaba Bosiu was was once the capital of Lesotho, having been King Moshoeshoe’s stronghold. These days, you can stay in the cultural village here where thatch-roofed hut have been converted into comfortable rooms. The village is a good introduction before visiting the plateau as the museum has a small but informative display on Lesotho history. You can also get a guided tour around the cultural village and visit various traditional Bosotho huts.

Check the latest rates here!

The currency used is the Lesotho Loti (LSL). The current exchange rate is 1 USD =13.30 LSL and 1 EUR = 15.35 LSL. Note that the African rand (ZAR) can be used almost everywhere in Lesotho, so if you’re coming from South Africa , there’s no need to exchange currency. If you still want o have some Loti with you, you can change with taxi drivers or petrol kiosk attendants at the border towns (don’t expect official exchange bureaus.)

Lesotho is an inexpensive country to travel in, especially when compared to South Africa. Midrange hotels usually cost around US$30-100 per night for a double room, and meals are around US$3-10 per person depending on where you eat.

There aren’t as many restaurants in Lesotho, so expect to eat at more local eateries and diners. ATMs are common in Lesotho, but international cards are rarely accepted outside the capital.

Lesotho Travel: Our Four-Day Itinerary

As mentioned, Lesotho is relatively small, but distances are still long as it is mountainous. You can get a taste of it in a few days, but it’s advisable to take at least a week to see more of Lesotho. We spent four days in Lesotho and only saw the northern part of the country. If you also have just have a few days in Lesotho, check out our detailed itinerary and feel free to use it on your trip!

To enter Lesotho, we chose to cross the Calendenspoort border from South Africa. This was the most spectacular drive of our whole trip through South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. The mountainscapes were mindblowing and we found ourselves woo-ing and ahh-ing at the bend of every turn.

The border crossing into Lesotho was quick and easy: we didn’t even need to pay any road tax and show any permit. The customs officers only checked Alberto’s drivers license and not the car. (That said, I recommend not taking the risk and getting your Lesotho permit from your rental company in advance.)

After crossing into Lesotho, it was just an hour’s drive to our destination, Maliba Lodge in T’sehlanyane National Park . The road into the national park was absolutely stunning, flanked by steep mountain slopes dotted with thatch-roofed mud huts and grazing cattle. We were surrounded by the famous Maloti Mountains that extend for about 100 km into the Free State.

Stay: Maliba Lodge

We absolutely loved our time at Maliba Lodge, a luxurious eco-lodge poised on the top of the Maloti Mountains within a protected national park. The hotel is specially designed to celebrate the Lesotho tradition, sharing many architectural features with the traditional houses that dot the landscapes. On the outside, the huts at Maliba Lodge look very simple, with grass thatched-roofs and brown walls; but on the side, they’re equipped with five-star features and modern comforts. Read my full review here.

The next day, we signed up for a community tour with Maliba Lodge. Most of the lodge staff are from the surrounding Basotho villages and they know the area inside out, so we were definitely in good hands. Our guide brought us to three villages that were just a few kilometres from the lodge and the experience gave us incredible insights to how the Basotho live.

The first stop was the traditional beer-brewing hut, where the villagers prepared local beer together. We chanced upon a group of men singing, hitting the hops, and preparing them for the fermentation process. Then we got to try the traditional beer ourselves — which tasted much better than I expected.

Next, we went to visit a series of traditional mud huts where the villagers lived. Most of the huts had electricity as well as kitchen and beds. We also got to meet a sangoma, or traditional healer, who happened to be a lady in her sixties. She showed us all her tools and even demonstrated how she made certain medication.

In the afternoon, Alberto and I went on a pony trek in the national park, while Kaleya stayed at the kids club at Maliba Lodge (huge thanks to the kind staff who offered to take care of her!).

The Basotho pony is a unique species of small horses that have evolved over the years. We rode up the horses up the mountain ridges to the Blackpool, one of the many natural pools in the area. Along the way, we spotted an eland (second largest antelope in Africa) as well as eagles in the distance. The national park is also home to mountain baboons, bearded vultures, and falcon.

Leaving T’sehlanyane National Park behind us, we started our drive south to explore more of Lesotho. We were truly impressed by what we’d seen so far — the landscapes of northern Lesotho reminded me of Bhutan and Ethiopia, with sandy-brown mountains in the backdrop and dry millet fields carved into terraces on the lowlands.

With our expectations rather high, we were disappointed to find there weren’t quite much to see enroute to Maseru, in terms of natural attractions or cultural sights. We wanted to stop over at Sebung River to see some dinosaur footprints but were warned against it by our lodge. We were told that permission was needed from the local chief to visit.

Then we made a special stop at Teyateyaneng, known as the craft centre of Lesotho. We had a hard time finding Sesoto Design Gallery that was highly recommended in our guidebook, but eventually found that the weaving workshop was closed and the tiny store was just stocked with expensive handwoven runs. A place worth stopping is the Lesotho Mountain Craft Gallery that’s a few kilometers outside of town. Prices are high but there’s a bigger selection and the lady who runs it is more than willing to chat and show you how the weaving is done. Click to see its Google Maps location.

We did end up having a few hours to explore Maseru, the capital of Lesotho. There aren’t a lot of attractions in Maseru per se, but it’s worthwhile to spend a day getting to know the city. Start with the Lesotho National Museum , which holds the best of sculptures and ethnic relics in Lesotho.

I also recommend heading up to the parliament hill for sunset — that was quite a pleasant surprise for us. From the vantage point, Maseru looked surprisingly sparse, with only clusters of houses scattered over the dry grassy plains.

Stay: Hokahanya Inn & Conference Centre

We found this to be a really comfortable, budget-friendly option. Hokahanya Inn & Conference Center is situated in Maseru, near the Morija Museum. Its prime location offers easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.

On our last day, we woke up early and drove just 10 minutes to the Maseru bridge border post. It was pretty crowded and we had to spend one hour waiting in line on the Lesotho side to get our passports stamped. Luckily it was fast on the South African side and we managed to go on our way by 10am. From there, it was a five-hour drive back to Johannesburg, where our journey began.

Technically, we only had three days in Lesotho; but having that third night in Lesotho definitely gave us some extra time to explore Maseru and get to know Lesotho a bit better. If you do have some time to spare, I recommend spending your fourth day exploring the Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village , about 30 minutes from the city. It provides the best historical gateway in Lesotho and is such an amazing place to have a hike. It holds a great natural significant portraying the historical Basotho fighting the Boers at that particular hill.

As we only had a few days in Lesotho, we only saw the northern part of the country. There are lots more to experience in the rest of the country, including:

• Afriski — Ski and Mountain Resort for skiing in winter (June – September)
• Bokong Nature Reserve — hiking paradise great for those who love the outdoors (the Lepaquoa waterfall freezes in winter into a solid column of ice)
• Sehlabathebe National Park — remote mountain reserve great for hiking with rare wildlife, impressive waterfalls, and ancient rock paintings and stone shelters
• Katse — the impressive Katse Dam
• Morija — dinosaur footprints
• Semonkong — Maletsunyane Falls
• Thaba Bosiu — The mountain stronghold where King Moeshoeshoe the Great established the Kingdom of Lesotho

If you’re traveling Lesotho in winter (June to September) like we did, you should pack for cold weather, but there’s no need for a thick coat, gloves and winter hat (unless you’re going skiing). 3 layers should do: a lightweight bottom, a fleece, and a thin waterproof outer layer. When we traveled there in June, it was mainly sunny and warm during the day (t-shirts and long pants were enough) and only chilly at night. For those traveling in summer, spring or fall, one layer is enough, but don’t forget to bring a thin jacket for chilly nights.

I’m a strong believer in ‘less is more’. The less you travel with, the more convenient it will be to move around. If you can’t see yourself using something daily, you probably don’t need it.

Here are some of the essentials to pack for a trip to Lesotho:

• Long Sleeve Moisture Wicking Tees : The key to staying warm in Lesotho is layering. Bring some    long sleeve t-shirts that are great for hiking, that you can easily remove throughout the day and night.
• Fleece Base : This is my favorite gear for cold climates. It’s thick but lightweight, and keeps me warm even in sub-zero temperatures. Plus most fleece are cheap and easy to find everywhere. I usually get one that can be zipped all the way down, so I can easily remove layers when I’m warm.
• Soft Shell Jacket : Pack a thin waterproof, soft shell jacket regardless of the weather you’re traveling. It’s particularly useful for the rain. This also acts as an extra layer between your shirt and down jacket or parka. I used this almost everyday on my trip.
• Quick-Dry Pants : These are something I wear on almost every trip. They’re lightweight, thin, comfortable and waterproof. I can wear them in winter and summer, without feeling too warm or cold.
• Hiking Boots : A pair of sturdy hiking boots that are waterproof and protective for hiking in the mountains of Lesotho. I’ve used mine for around 2 years now and they’ve been to many countries and different types of terrain with me. Instead of getting those high boots that are ridiculously heavy and thick, I think it’s better to travel with hiking boots like these. 

Thank you for reading this far! I hope you’ve enjoyed my Lesotho Travel Guide and discovered some valuable tips for your adventure. I’d love to hear your thoughts: What did you find most helpful or interesting? Were there any parts you didn’t enjoy as much? Please feel free to ask any questions in the comments below—I’m more than happy to help! If you’re planning to explore more of Africa, don’t miss these additional articles:

• Staying at Maliba Lodge in Lesotho
• The Perfect 2-Week South Africa Itinerary
• A Family Safari in South Africa
• 28 Cool Things to Do in Namibia
• Kenya with Kids: My Kenya Family Safari Guide
• Kenya Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Kenya
• Kenya Travel Guide: All You Need to Know
• How to Go Gorilla Trekking
• Best Safari Parks in Africa

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. As an accomplished travel writer, she has written for BBC Travel, CNN and Rough Guides . She is also the author of five travel books, including the latest Lonely Planet's Mexico guidebook. Read more about her here and follow her on Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Angie Shackleford

I enjoyed your comprehensive and detailed information on Lesotho, as it is seldom that any travel author takes the time to really understand a destination, which I feel that you achieved in this blog. Lesotho is the most remarkable spark of brilliance as it is just so remote and real. I love the rural areas that are untouched by man. I have spent many happy days in Lesotho and the one thing that has fascinated me the most, is the simple and unsophisticated perception of many communities. Best of luck with your future travels and we look forward to more travel articles of this calibre.

This means a lot to me. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a nice feedback! Appreciate the kind words and glad we share the same admiration for Lesotho!

Wow!!!!!! Very helpful, thank you very much. Will be off to Lesotho soon.

Aww so glad you found this guide useful! Lesotho is gorgeous, enjoy it!

Eric Chiang

I am planning to drive from Johannesburg to Lesotho for 2 days, our blog is very helpful for 1st timer like me.

Oh great to hear! Have a great trip and let me know if I can help in any way!

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How I spent a perfect day (and a half) in Lesotho

Lesotho (pronounced leh-soo-too) is a tiny mountain kingdom landlocked by South Africa . Formerly known as Basutholand, modern Lesotho is a nation of blue skies, towering mountains, rushing rivers and pony trekking. Not to mention friendly faces.

One of the highest points in Southern Africa, Lesotho is the only independent state in the world that sits entirely above 1000 metres, so expect crisp summers and snowy winters. Locals here get around in the warmest wool sweaters, knit caps and the Seanamarena blanket, which is probably the cosiest traditional garment ever created.

I’m on the Kruger, Coast & Cape trip , a 22-day overland odyssey that makes a pit-stop in Lesotho for rondavels, shebeens and, of course, pony trekking. Here’s how I spent 24 (and a bit) hours in the Kingdom in the Sky:

9AM – To the Gates of Paradise

Image by Ryan Bolton

It doesn’t get much better than driving the Sani Pass from Durban. Winding higher and higher, this famous road cuts through cliff faces, seemingly skirting the edge of the world. We stop at the Gates of Paradise for a panoramic view of Lesotho plains, eating our lunch at an altitude of 2001 metres. Gift, our tour leader, points to his left and says “Just over those hills is our home for the night. It’s only a handful of kilometres but it’s going to take us a while, so buckle in for the African massage”. He’s not wrong. The travel is slow, and the pot holes are epic, but the view is amazing.

EXPLORE SOUTHERN AFRICA NOW ON A 22-DAY SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

12PM – Walk like a local

Image by Tayla Gentle

We’re calling Malealea town home for the next few days, a tiny village standing at 1800 metres above sea level. Regina, a local woman, takes us on a tour of the neighbourhood. The village is a collection of grazing ponies, kids wrapped up in warm wool and traditional Basotho huts. Grandmothers sit on their front doorsteps holding babies and shouting at younger kids to keep it down while elsewhere we hear the sounds of the local choir rehearsing. We are welcomed into homes and schools and shown a genuine hospitality not often found when travelling.

RELATED: 6 REASONS WHY SOUTH AFRICA IS A DESTINATION WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

3PM – Sing with the choir

Speaking of the local choir, it turns out they were rehearsing for their afternoon show. We all grab a plastic chair and head down to the grass amphitheatre. Above us, the sky is rolling with thunderclouds threatening to clap. The chorale leader tells us that all the singers are untrained and have learnt by ear. He blows a tuning whistle and the first lady sings: I get goosebumps. The choir singers split effortlessly into a four part harmony, singing a welcome song in Basutho. The song that follows steps up the energy and soon they’re clapping and dancing, and I’m clapping and dancing along with them.

5PM – Hit the shebeen

Shebeen is another word for bar, essentially, and in Lesotho that translation is quite loose. Homebrewing is a big thing here, with many locals fixing a personal home-brew setup in their living spaces. The way to visit a shebeen is to look for the flags. If a home has maize beer ready to drink, it will fly a yellow flag. If another has sorghum beer, you’ll see a white flag. We’re in Malalea on a lucky day, as all the beers in town are ready and drinkable. The highlight, however, is the ginger beer. We crowd into the tiny hut and find ourselves surrounded by elderly ladies who are passing around a giant mug of beer. Some nod hello on our entrance, others smile. But by the end of my first mug of beer, I’m taking selfies with three of them.

RELATED: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A NIGHT AT A ZULU HOMESTAY

9PM – Dreaming of Basotho huts

As we’re walking back to our hut, a little woozy around the edges from gallons of ginger beer, the skies finally open and we’re in the middle of a torrential downpour. Luckily the round, grass thatched, mud brick huts are a) watertight and b) cosy. The mud brick helps to keep these traditional rondavels cool in summer and warm in winter; it’s the perfect natural insulation. I fall asleep to the pitter-patter of giant raindrops and the flicker of candlelight. Snug as a bug in Lesotho.

10AM – Saddle up

A trip to Lesotho is not complete without getting on a horse. And not just any horse, a pony. Most locals here own a trusty steed because 9/10 times it’s faster to ride a horse than to navigate these mountains by car. My pony for the day is a bossy little number named Microsoft. I love her already. Our horse guru tells me that Microsoft is the older sister of the ponies and because of that, she likes to be at the front of the pack. Me too, Microsoft. Me too.

Traversing the Lesotho landscape from the saddle is incredible. The vistas feel even bigger, you feel even smaller. It’s a welcome new perspective. The ponies know their way around these mountains and they take lead, effortlessly meandering around boulders, across river beds and up gravel tracks. Whenever we get to an expanse of green, the guide gives us free reign to go as fast as we want. Microsoft and I fly across the flats. I haven’t laughed so freely for a long time.

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12PM – See the Bushmen art

We tie the horses up and jump off our saddles at the top of a huge gorge. If I didn’t know I was in Africa it could’ve easily been somewhere in the Australian northern territory. We traipse down the rocks, winding our way into the gorge, climbing beneath huge overhanging boulders. The Bushman’s Painting in this area of Lesotho depict half-human hybrids hunting eland bulls. The rock art is over 27,000 years old and it gives you an insight into the ancient culture of the San Bushmen people. Long story short: the climb down is worth the effort.

RELATED: OUTSIDE THE CITY BOWL: A GUIDE TO CAPE TOWN’S NEIGHBOURHOODS

3PM – Dance like a local

Get back on the horse, literally. The ponies lead us back to Malalea Lodge just in time for the local band’s afternoon jam session. The band is comprised of a bunch of local men who have created their own instruments out of everyday pieces. There is something like a guitar, a drum set, and a lot of whistling. Two smaller boys, who look about ten years old, perform a dance that is an incredible mix of Basutho and jive. I’ve never clapped harder or smiled more widely.

If dancing, singing, and meeting a few friendly ponies sounds like your perfect trip, check out our small group adventures in Lesotho now . 

Feature image by Ryan Bolton. 

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Tayla Gentle

I'm a travel writer guilty of visiting places that often give my mum mild anxiety. Likely born in Jamaica in a past life, travel for me involves dancing to afrobeat, drinking Mekong whiskey and wearing pyjamas on long haul flights.

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Introducing Lesotho

About lesotho.

• Images of Lesotho
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Lesotho
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

Lesotho travel guide

Tucked away in the heart of South Africa sits the Kingdom of Lesotho, known to locals as the Kingdom of the Sky and to travellers as the Switzerland of Africa.

As the nicknames suggest, Lesotho is mostly made up of the rolling highlands and dramatic, rugged peaks of the Maloti Mountains, the tallest of which stands at a shade under 3,500m (11,482ft) above sea level. Lesotho is the only independent state in the world that is entirely above 1,000m (304m) altitude.

The high altitude and mountainous geography lend a spectacularly scenic backdrop to the numerous outdoor activities on offer, including pony trekking, rock climbing, fishing, abseiling, hiking, bird watching, mountain biking and even skiing on the snow-covered slopes below the Mahlasela Pass.

The existence of valuable mineral and water resources led developers to build roads through some areas of Lesotho, but much of the kingdom and its villages remain remote and can only be reached on foot, by horseback or by light aircraft.

But Lesotho’s remoteness is a large part of its appeal, and this also helps preserve the rich traditional culture of the Basotho people, which you can experience at a number of cultural villages dotted across the kingdom. Lesotho also boasts some prominent examples of ancient rock paintings made by the nomadic San people that once inhabited this area.

Since Lesotho gained its independence from the British, poverty and unemployment have seen this protectorate lose a large percentage of its population to South Africa’s mines, while those that stayed behind have had to live with one of the world’s highest rates of HIV, which in turn has had detrimental effects on the country’s economy.

But while Lesotho might not be able to boast the wealth and infrastructure of its much larger neighbour, when it comes to raw adventure and natural beauty it can certainly hold its own.

30,355 sq km.

2,160,309 (UN estimate 2016).

64.2 per sq km.

Constitutional monarchy.

King Letsie III since 1996.

Prime Minister Sam Matekane since 2022.

Travel Advice

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Lesotho’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Lesotho set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Lesotho High Commission Lesotho in the UK .

All visitors to Lesotho must travel through South Africa, whether travelling by air or land. You need to meet South Africa’s entry requirements .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Lesotho.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Lesotho, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 90 days after the date you arrive.

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

You need at least 4 blank pages for passport stamping. Lesotho border control need to stamp your passport and so do South African border control on your way to and from Lesotho.   

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements 

You can visit Lesotho for up to 90 days without a visa.

You can extend your stay by completing a 90-day temporary permit extension form and taking it to the Visa Application Centre in the Manthabiseng Convention Centre, Maseru. Your passport will need to be valid for the extension period.  

If you overstay without permission, the authorities may detain you and will charge you weekly fines.   

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Lesotho guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Lesotho. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.  

Taking money into Lesotho

Declare cash or travellers cheques in any currency if the value is 25,000 Lesotho loti or more. If you do not, the authorities could seize your money when you leave and you could be fined.  

The Lesotho loti is pegged to the South African rand on a one-to-one basis. Both currencies are accepted throughout Lesotho.

UK debit and credit cards are widely accepted for payment and at ATMs. If you are travelling outside Maseru, take enough cash to cover local purchases.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Lesotho

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Lesotho, attacks cannot be ruled out.  

Political situation

There are occasional political demonstrations in Maseru. These are usually peaceful, but there is a risk of isolated incidents of violence. Move away from demonstrations or gatherings, particularly if you see the security forces are present. Lesotho successfully held elections in 2022 but has had a history which includes political-related violence in past decades.  

Much of the violent crime in Lesotho is gun crime between organised crime groups. However, foreigners are vulnerable to opportunistic street crime and vehicle crime.

Gender-based violence is very high in Lesotho. Most crimes based on gender are between people who already know each other, but violence towards women and girls happens in all areas of the country.

Mugging and violent vehicle crime

Muggers can target foreign nationals. Do not walk alone in isolated areas or after dark.

Armed carjackers or robbers may try to stop your car or get into it while you are stationary. The danger is greatest in urban areas. Do not stop your car if people try to flag you down and do not give lifts to strangers.

Keep doors locked, windows shut and valuables out of sight. If you are driving across the country:

• try to drive during daylight hours
• take care near border crossings and at road junctions
• be wary of road blocks that need you to stop or slow down

If you are caught up in an attack, do not offer any resistance.

Petty theft and burglary

Take precautions to safeguard your valuables and cash. Leave them in hotel safes, if possible. Keep copies of important documents, including your passport’s photo page and entry stamps, in a separate place.

There is often an increase in thefts, especially burglaries from villas, leading up to the Christmas and Easter holiday periods.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Always carry a copy of the photo page of your passport and your entry stamp. Officials may ask to see these.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession of drugs is a serious offence and punishments can be severe, including prison sentences.

LGBT+ travellers

Sexual activity between men is illegal, but FCDO is not aware of this being enforced. Showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Lesotho for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.

Driving standards and road conditions in Lesotho are poor. You should drive with caution.

Animals roaming on the roads are a hazard, especially at night.

Taxis and minibuses

Local minibus taxis (‘4+1s’) may be poorly maintained and uninsured. They often ignore road safety rules including speed limits. Avoid using them and steer clear of them when driving.

It’s safer to use transport arranged by your accommodation or by a tour operator.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical numbers

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, call 112 and ask for an ambulance.

If 112 is not operating, call locally on 80093030121. 

You can also access emergency treatment across the border in South Africa. Mediclinic Bloemfontein is a 90-minute drive (140km) from Maseru and has private ambulances. 

Mediclinic: +27 51 404 6225

Ambulance: ER24 +27 102053588

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Lesotho
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Lesotho .

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Lesotho. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Lesotho

Lesotho has basic medical facilities. Most foreign visitors use healthcare facilities in Bloemfontein, South Africa, a 90-minute drive from Maseru.

In Lesotho, Queen Mamohato Memorial Hospital (+266 2231 3260) and Maseru Private Hospital (+266 2233 3600) are the main hospitals. Both are in the Maseru area. Outside of Maseru there are District hospitals in most of the Districts.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Lesotho where some staff will speak English.  

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Lesotho

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police) 

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers and funeral directors in Lesotho
• dealing with a death in Lesotho
• being arrested or imprisoned in Lesotho
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Lesotho and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa who provide consular assistance for Lesotho.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Lesotho travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: August 7, 2024 13:04 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, lesotho - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Lesotho due to crime.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs and is prevalent in urban areas.

• Be cautious when out in public places, especially at night
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• Keep valuables with you in your carry-on when travelling and ensure it is secure at all times
• Stay in hotels or accommodations offering good security measures

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and residential break-ins, occurs and often targets foreigners. Hotspots include:

• popular restaurants
• local hotels
• the business district
• poorly lit or unlit roads

Crime is most prevalent in urban areas such as:

However, incidents have occurred in remote mountainous areas as well.

Carjacking also occurs.

• Don’t drive after dark
• Always lock windows and doors
• Don’t offer rides to hitchhikers
• Be vigilant when stopping at scenic points or rest stations
• Park in well-lit areas
• There is no visible police presence at night. Remain vigilant at all times
• Exercise increased caution in urban centres
• Don’t walk alone, especially at night
• If attacked or robbed, do not resist

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

The roads in the capital, Maseru, are adequate, as well as the roads leading to the airport and industrial areas. The roads leading to the Lesotho–South Africa border crossings and most of Lesotho’s district capitals are also in good condition. Aggressive and unpredictable local driving habits pose a risk in Maseru.  

The roads linking rural communities are gravel and poorly maintained.  They are poorly lit, and wandering livestock pose a risk to drivers. Some of these rural communities, mainly those in the mountainous areas, are only connected by dirt roads.  You may need a four-wheel drive vehicle in those areas. You must also have such a vehicle to enter and depart Lesotho through the Sani Pass on the eastern border. 

Tourist facilities are limited in Lesotho. There are few gas stations outside of cities and large towns, and no roadside assistance services operating throughout the country.

Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountainous regions. Even in the summer, it can become cold unexpectedly.

• Plan your travel accordingly
• Always carry a cell phone and charger
• Carry a blanket, warm clothes and a flashlight in case of snowfall or vehicle breakdown in mountain areas
• Contact the Lesotho Mounted Police Service in case of road emergencies

Public transportation

Bus and taxis.

Although public bus and taxi services exist, poor vehicle maintenance, overcrowding and lack of driver training make them unsafe. Accidents occur regularly. 

The best way to travel is by private car.

Renting a car

Car rental services are available in Maseru. If you rent a car in South Africa, you may bring it into Lesotho with a letter of authorization from the rental company. 

Check with the rental company to make sure they issue letters of authorization.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Hiking and camping

Although hiking is a popular activity in Lesotho, there are no set hiking trails.

Given the country’s high altitude, mountaintop campsites will expose you to extreme weather, such as thunderstorms. Unpredictable rainfall can lead to flash floods in the valleys and flooding around rivers. Choose your campsite wisely. There is no reliable mountain rescue service in Lesotho.

If you intend to hike: 

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal

Women’s Safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Lesotho. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Lesotho.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 30 days Temporary residence permit: required for stays longer than 44 days Work permit: required Study permit: required

If you want to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension with the Lesotho immigration authorities. You must apply for an extension before the end of the initial 14 days.

Health screening

Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease in neighbouring countries, you may be subject to a quick thermal scanner screening and a health questionnaire at the airport upon arrival or departure.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability.

Outside of Maseru, healthcare is inadequate. Ambulance service is unreliable or non-existent. You will usually need to pay cash for medical care.

You may need medical evacuation to South Africa in the event of an accident or serious illness. The closest facilities are in Bloemfontein, South Africa, 140 km from Maseru. Should an evacuation be necessary, you may have to arrange your own transport, unless it’s specifically covered by your insurance policy.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or long prison sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Lesotho law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between individuals of the same sex. However, Lesotho doesn’t recognise same-sex marriages or civil unions.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Identification

Local authorities may ask to check your identity at any time.

• Carry identification documents at all times
• Keep a certified photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or confiscated

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Lesotho.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Lesotho, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Lesotho.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Lesotho by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Lesotho to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Traffic drives on the left.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Lesotho is the loti (LSL). The South African rand (ZAR) is also accepted.

Major credit cards are accepted, but only at major tourist establishments and banks. 

Severe weather

Lesotho is subject to severe weather. In the mountains, the weather can change quickly and unexpected rainfall can cause flash flooding and river swelling.

Extreme cold and snow

During winter months (June to August), expect extreme cold and heavy snowfall in the mountains. This could lead to road and mountain pass closures.  

Thunderstorms

Violent thunderstorms occur in the summer (November to February) and result in several deaths yearly.

• Plan accordingly
• Monitor local media and weather forecasts

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: +266 5888 1024; +266 2232 2099
• medical assistance: +266 2831 9539
• firefighters: 1-800 10999 (toll free); +266 5886 8090; +266 6358 0347

Consular assistance

South Africa, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mauritius, Namibia

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in South Africa, in Pretoria, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Lesotho Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Lesotho.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Lesotho.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Lesotho.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Lesotho.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Lesotho, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Lesotho, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Lesotho. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Lesotho include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Lesotho’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Lesotho may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Lesotho, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Lesotho.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Lesotho for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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All The Travel Information You Need To Know About Lesotho

by Saskia Carelse September 20, 2017

Highlights of Lesotho, as well as all the information every traveler should know

The Kingdom of Lesotho is a landlocked country in Southern Africa completely surrounded by South Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 and has a population slightly over two million people.

The name 'Lesotho' translates roughly into "the land of the people who speak Sesotho". The original inhabitants of the area were the San people. Examples of their rock art can be found in the mountains throughout the area. The Lesotho Government is a parliamentary or constitutional monarchy. Lesotho is divided into ten districts, each headed by a district administrator. Each district has a capital known as a camptown. Lesotho's ethno-linguistic structure consists almost entirely of the Basotho. The main language, Sesotho (or Sotho), is the first official and administrative language, and it is what Basotho speak on an ordinary basis. The country holds rich culture where villagers on horseback in multi-coloured clothing wave as you drive passed. The hiking is world class and can even be done on a Basotho pony! Lesotho is a fantastic place for an adventure tour.

Lesotho's Wildlife

Lesotho is famous for its beautiful mountain passes, traditional communities and wildlife. Due to its beautiful wildlife, Lesotho is a great country for visitors who are looking for outdoor adventures and to immerse themselves in nature.

The Sehlabathebe National Park is Lesotho’s most popular game and national park which allow guests to witness Lesotho’s wildlife up close

The mountainous regions of Lesotho are a perfect environment for snakes. Most of Lesotho's snakes are small and potentially venomous which travelers are made aware about before their ventures.

Other interesting animals that are found in Lesotho include servals, leopards, zebras, wildebeest and ponies. Lions and ostriches once roamed the land freely but hunting and deforestation largely decreased and eliminated their numbers.

Lesotho’s rivers provide an abundance of fish and frogs.

Lesotho's Culture

Basotho speak Sesotho and majority speak excellent English which is a second language widely used. The people are well know for their exquisite and unique artwork. The traditional Basotho Hat called mokorotlo is a fine range of grass-works made in Lesotho.+

Their traditional culture holds strong value to village life where elders are highly respected and most traditions and festivities are centred around seasons of the year. The Matabele people have preserved their traditions extremely well and their traditional dance, Ndlamo, is still a great way to celebrate throughout much of Lesotho.

In the towns, as well as in the mountains, it is common to come across a Basotho horseman in his traditional cloak or blanket, who will raise his hand and greet you with, "Khotso" which means 'peace'.

Throughout Lesotho you will see people dressed in woolen blankets with beautiful patterns which they wear to protect themselves from the cold temperatures. Animals are very important to the people. The Basotho pony represents the best form of transport in the mountains and donkeys are often used as pack animals.

Their villages are very structured, made up of a number of kraals (a collection of buildings belonging to one family) and a chief. Some huts are for sleeping, some for storage and one for cooking. Each kraal will also have an enclosure for livestock. 

Lesotho's Currency

The loti (plural: maloti) is the currency of the Lesotho. It is subdivided into 100 lisente (singular: sente). The loti is on par with the South African rand and accepted widely as a form of currency in Lesotho.

Lesotho’s economy is mainly based on manufacturing, livestock, agriculture, and the wages of people who work in South Africa.

The loti offers favourable rates of exchange for foreigners therefore your travel budget will go surprisingly far. Visa and MasterCards are usually accepted in major establishments of Lesotho. Restaurants outside of Maseru (and most in Maseru) will probably not accept credit card as a means of payment.There are ATMs at banks in most towns and is advisable to draw cash to avoid your card not being accepted in certain places.

Getting To Lesotho

Moshoeshoe I International Airport is located in the town of Mazenod, about 18 km (11 mi) southeast of Maseru, the capital of Lesotho. You will get to this airport via a stop-off at OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. This flight takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

If you decide to self-drive to Lesotho, you will come from South Africa. It's recommended that you hire a car in South Africa as it will be cheaper than hiring in Lesotho.

The major border posts are Caledonspoort, Ficksburg Bridge, Makhaleng Bridge, Maseru Bridge, Ngoangoma Gate, Peka Bridge, Qacha's Nek, Ramatseliso's Gate, Sani Pass, Sephaphos Gate, Tele Bridge and Van Rooyen's Gate.

Passport, Visa and Other Entry Requirements To  Lesotho

To enter Lesotho, you will need a passport valid for 3 months, with at least 2 blank pages. You will also have to have a return ticket.

If you are from certain foreign countries, Lesotho does not require you to have a visa. Please contact your nearest Lesotho embassy to find out whether you will need to have a visa or not.

Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travelers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy.

The Best Time To Visit Lesotho

With plenty of sunlight and pleasant weather, the summer months of October to April are a great time to visit Lesotho if you'd like to avoid the rains and experience the many outdoor activities.

Some visitors like to visit Lesotho during winter, as this is the time of the year where the mountains are covered with beautiful flowers and the valleys scattered with various blossoms. Rain and snow make the cold season a magical experience and skiing is at its best.

Malaria Risk and Vaccinations

There is no risk of yellow fever in Lesotho. The government of Lesotho requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. 

Malaria is not a risk in Lesotho, unless you have otherwise contracted it in another country of Africa.

Lesotho's Climate

Lesotho has a continental climate, with summer being the rainiest season in Lesotho and winter being the driest. 

In the lower altitudes of Lesotho, the weather tends to be warmer and more temperate but as you go into higher altitudes, the conditions get colder.

Summer time in Lesotho (generally October to April) can get warm temperatures with cooler nights. Winter (May to September) experiences milder temperatures with cold nights, frost and snow, especially the higher you go.

Driving In Lesotho

You have to be at least 18 to be able to drive in Lesotho. If you're renting a car the minimum age is 21. In Lesotho you’ll drive on the left side of the road.

Roads are generally in good condition but it is advised to have a 4x4 car during the rainy seasons, as the dirt roads can quickly turn in to mud roads. The main roads in Lesotho are similar to minor roads in Europe — they are tarred, and surprisingly free of potholes.

Please do not leave any valuables in an unattended vehicle, as you may be subject to a break in. Try to park in an attended parking lot, especially at night.

Finding petrol stations can be a problem. It is best to fill the tank in Maseru or in South Africa.

Lesotho's Electric Plug Points/Outlets

In Lesotho the power sockets are of type M. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Foreign appliances may need a power plug adapter but will depend on the power plugs used in your own country. You can use your electric appliances in Lesotho if the standard voltage of your country's appliances are in between 220 - 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa). 

If the voltage of your appliance is not in this range, you will need a voltage converter. To be sure, check the label on the appliance. Some appliances don't need a converter. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the appliance can be used in all countries in the world. 

Tipping In Lesotho

Tipping in Lesotho is common and follows closely to the customs of tipping in South Africa. Gratuities are not included in bills and is common courtesy to add a tip, depending on the level of service your received. At a restaurant, you will usually add a 10% tip for your waiter/waitress. Tipping hotel staff in Lesotho is common - tip your bell boy about 5-10 M per bag and your maid the same per night.

Dress Code In Lesotho

Lesotho is not exactly the fashion capital of the world (in a westerner's eyes), however you will see the locals wearing beautiful blankets wrapped around their shoulders or bodies, by both men and women.

It is recommended to bring along your casual clothing - please check the weather patterns beforehand of the season in which you're visiting Lesotho. For women, it's advisable to wear jeans, shorts, dresses and skirts, perhaps with a little bit more modesty than usual (if you like to wear short items). For men, casual trousers and shorts are acceptable in Lesotho.

Many people wear warm hats when it is chilly and sun hats when it’s warmer. Take along thick jackets and good quality hiking boots for the cold conditions, especially if you plan on exploring the mountains.

HIV/Aids In Lesotho

Lesotho is one of the countries hardest hit by HIV, with most of the affected population being women.

Holiday flings are alluring and hardly uncommon. Please make sure to protect your safety by using condoms in all instances. You alone are responsible for your health and safety.

Dining In Lesotho

Basotho cuisine features Lesotho, British and South African styles. For generations, Basotho depended on their livestock and own agriculture as sources of food, resulting in today's traditional food being simple and not as spicy as the rest of Africa.

Due to their foreign influences, you will find people eating Oxtail Stew, seafood dishes, braai's (BBQ) etc. They also enjoy rice dishes, bread, potatoes, beans, vegetables and fruit.

Attractions In Lesotho

• Maletsunyane Falls (Semonkong)
• AfriSki Ski and Mountain Resort (Butha-Buthe)
• Katse Dam (Maseru)
• Maluti Mountains (Maseru)
• Gates of Paradise Pass (Malealea)
• Mohale Dam (Maseru)
• Liphofung Caves (Leribe)
• Bokong Nature Reserve (Leribe)
• Sani Pass (Mokhotlong)

Saskia Carelse

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Lesotho Travel Guide

A unique Kingdom set within a large nation; Lesotho is a high-altitude land of exploration for eager adventurers.

Between 1820 and 1823, King Moshoeshoe I, son of a minor chief from the Bakoteli lineage, took his people and settled the Butha-Buthe Mountain. Moshoeshoe allied with former adversaries in the face of the growing threat of South African King Shaka Zulu, and the Lifaqane (also known as Mfecane or Difaqane) – a period of widespread chaos and warfare between communities that arose in the wake of his aggressive expansion. 

Now, nestled in a high-altitude region of South Africa, the land-locked independent Kingdom of Lesotho is a hidden gem in the vast nation that surrounds it. 

As a country elevated at 1,000 metres (3,281 feet), Lesotho differs from its lateral African counterparts by its cooler climate, subject to snowy winters in its lowlands, to dramatic summer storms that see the most rainfall per area in the whole of Africa. 

Marked by its lush grasslands, alpine meadows, jagged hills, and winding river networks, Lesotho remains a country largely untouched by development, and a prime location for exploratory hiking, camping, cave visits, horseback trekking, and even snow sports during the colder seasons. And for those excited at the prospect of African wildlife, the country boasts a variety of exotic birds, reptiles, and mammal species endemic to the region.

TOURISM INSIGHTS: LESOTHO TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Through the variation of locations and activities, Lesotho has become a unique and exotic place to visit, and because of this, the tourism industry is essential to the Kingdom. 

The National Development Strategic Plan (NDSP II) has identified the industry as one of the four pillars that drive the economic growth of the country, and the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) is focused on reviving the sector in the wake of 2020.

LTDC is a parastatal organisation established in 2002, and its mandate is to develop and promote tourism in Lesotho. It is designed to provide leadership in the development of a strong and vibrant tourism industry which contributes to sustainable economic growth, job creation, poverty alleviation, and protection of the natural and cultural environment through effective partnership with the private sector and the community in strategic marketing, research, product development, quality tourism and hospitality services delivery and human resource development. Thus, its vision is to lead in successfully positioning Lesotho as Southern Africa’s must-visit mountain, culture, and adventure, and ecotourism destination.

We spoke to Sehlabaka Ramafikeng, interim CEO of the company, about the prospects of attracting more tourists to the Kingdom.

Q&A WITH SEHLABAKA RAMAFIKENG, CEO, LTDC

How do you market Lesotho as a destination?

Sehlabaka Ramafikeng (SR): LTDC is currently marketing and promoting tourism in Lesotho through digital marketing platforms such as our state-of-the-art website  www.visitlesotho.travel . This showcases all the Lesotho Tourism’s magnificent and breathtaking products, places to visit, where to stay, attractions, historic sites, culture and heritage, tourism investment opportunities, tour operators, accommodation, and all essential tourism information.

This tourism portal is linked to social media platforms that are being updated on a daily basis to interact with the audiences, such as daily tourism related activities posted on the company’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages, and a newly developed Lesotho Tourism Guider Mobile App.

Due to hugely negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic to world travel patterns, the Kingdom of Lesotho has also suffered negatively like all other countries. Promotional efforts had to be implemented to continue create awareness and market Lesotho as a unique tourism destination locally by way of various platforms. The objectives are to showcase and educate the locals about tourism offerings in the country, to travel within the country and know more about places of interests but most importantly to spend money at those places of interests to uplift lives of the communities.

Through the joint marketing efforts and strategic partnership with a neighbouring South Africa, the Kingdom of Lesotho is a member of the Maluti Drakensberg Route (MDR) whose objectives is to jointly market and promotes the tourism products that are along the traverse route which go through Lesotho and South African provinces namely Eastern Free State, KwaZulu Natal and Eastern Cape Highlands. 

What are your organisation’s current goals?

(SR): With the advent of COVID-19 pandemic, generally what is seems sure is that tourism in different country across the globe will rebound slowly and mainly through local travel. This is because travellers tend to venture out closer to home and travel locally in order to gain confidence to travel farther away from home countries. 

In our view, reopening and rebuilding tourism in this beautiful Kingdom in the sky calls for a joined-up approach. Thus, LTDC’s current goals include working together with businesses, government ministries and agencies to perfect and apply new health protocols for safe travel as well as to solicit support in whichever manner possible. By this we are aiming to restore travellers’ confidence as well as to stimulate demand for travel through our tourism promotion campaigns on social media. 

Further, we are also leveraging on this crisis that has been brought by the pandemic to focus on comprehensive tourism recovery plans which this time around encourages more innovation and investment in preparation for when the sector is fully open, up and running, simply put, we are busy rethinking tourism in Lesotho because we believe whatever we do today will shape the future of tourism in our country.

How do you promote off-season travel?

(SR): The corporation always ensure important element of strategic partnerships with the tourism private sector namely tour operators and events promoters. A rainy season which starts from October to the end of March, is a period where the country is green, has magnificent mountain scenery and filled man-made dams as the Kingdom of Lesotho has an abundance of water. There are lots of tourism related events which are promoted through social media platforms, billboards advertising, radio adverting and print advertising. The most attended activities during off-season period include motorcycling race (world renowned Roof of Africa Rally), hiking, abseiling, water sports, music festivals.

Are there any projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

(SR): Semonkong Visitor Comfort Facility.

The Corporation is currently constructing the state-of-the-art tourism facility which is being developed with a view to establish a meeting place for the tour operators and tourists together with the tour guides and the Semonkong community. This is the platform for the host community to create income making opportunities as thus enhance their livelihoods whilst the tourists experience is improved. This magnificent, breathtaking facility is overlooking at the Maletsunyane Falls which is the highest single drop waterfall in Southern Africa (192 metres) and it is also the highest commercial abseiling cliff in the world (206 metres).

Why, in your opinion, should somebody visit Lesotho?

(SR): Lesotho is a true African country, but there are some things which elevate it – literally – above many others. Its lowest point is 305 metres, the highest on the continent, and it also has the highest average height of any country in the world. Not surprising then that it also has the highest commercial abseil (in excess of 300 metres), the highest pub in Africa and the highest single drop waterfall in Southern Africa.

As one moves towards the southern and eastern sides, Lesotho becomes more and more beautiful. The country is generally clean, once away from the towns, and the sky stretches away forever with the most beautiful clouds reaching up to incredible heights, casting showers in the far distance. Little streams cascade down mountainsides, and rivers wind around foothills and mountains, forming fantastic gorges to marvel at. Spectacular sunsets are the order of the day as one often looks down on the clouds. Apart from the stunning scenery, and challenging off-roading, it is a pleasure to see how contour farming is the norm throughout Lesotho.

What a great country Lesotho is for tourism. We have reason to be proud inhabitants of this land not only because it draws its tourism appeal from the beauty of its physical landscape. Our pride derives also from the fact that the appeal of this country as a tourism destination comes as much from its physical beauty as it does from the people. Our friendliness, humility and general hospitality make us a refreshing compliment to the beautiful landscape of our country.

What are some of the country’s most unique landmarks?

• It is the only country in the world whose territory lies 1,500 metres above sea level.
• The Katse Dam wall stands 185 metres, making it one of the tallest man-made structures in the continent of Africa and highest dam in Africa.
• Lesotho has the longest and the highest bridge in the Southern hemisphere.
• The country is aptly dubbed the ‘Roof of Africa’ and the ‘edge of the world’ because of its altitude.
• It is home to the world’s highest pub at the Sani Top Chalet (2874 metres above sea level).
• Thabana Ntlenyana is the highest peak in Southern Africa (3482 metres).
• Lesotho is the highest lowest point in the world in terms of altitude.
• The Maletsunyane Falls is the highest single drop waterfall in Southern Africa (192 metres).
• It is also the highest commercial abseiling cliff in the world (206 metres).
• Lesotho’s monarchy is the highlight of our culture and a major draw card.  Being one the last three monarchs in the world to-day, this by itself is an attraction that if properly packaged and marketed can generate enormous interest from innovative entrepreneurs.
• Afriski Mountain Resort is an ‘all year, all mountain’ destination in the heart of the Drakensberg- Maluti Mountains, in Lesotho. It is one of two ski resorts in Southern Africa and attracts ten thousand visitors over the winter season each year. The highest Ski Resort in Africa.

Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry of Lesotho?

(SR): The reality is that tourism has been hard hit by this pandemic and when it restarts, it will be under new operating procedure and protocols, including different travel restrictions that will be or are already being applied by many countries, which will most probably influence travellers’ behaviour and decisions. As the industry starts to reopen, we might note shorter booking windows and less spends and more but it is not all doom and gloom because with the current work on rebuilding tourism in Lesotho, which includes getting the stakeholders to understand what has changed and what will be the best direction for the industry to grow even better, we are optimistic that soon enough, tourism in Lesotho will regain its position or become even better, through new found appreciation from the world.

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

For a high-class experience close to the city centre…  

For gourmet meals in a quirky environment…   

Dougies Kitchen  

If you fancy high-end international dishes… 

Regal Restaurant  

For a hotel with activities and nearby sports…  

Avani Lesotho Hotel and Casino  

A traditional stay with the outdoors at your fingertips… 

Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village 

A place that borders exotic wilderness… 

The Palace Hotel  is a prime stay based in the country less than an hour drive from the capital Maseru. Sporting a tranquil pool and a stunning surrounding landscape, the Palace Hotel is a place of leisure, and provides the opportunity for exploration. The hotel’s fine dining experience allows visitors to indulge in a variety of dishes, and its open-plan courtyard provides a social and friendly environment when relaxing beside the pool or in the sunny gardens.    

For those who love walks… 

Katse Dam Walking Tour 

If you love culture and history… 

Thaba-Bosiu National Monument 

A chance for skiing and other wintery activities… 

Afriski Mountain Resort 

LANDMARK ATTRACTIONS

Maletsunyane Falls

192 metres of waterfall standing near the town of Semonkong, Maletsunyane Falls is a must-see for visitors of the region. Carved into the cliff beside two vivid green hills, the waterfall is a breath-taking sight to behold, and its dramatic echoing sound has given rise to local folklore that lives to this day.

Sitting in the district of Berea, the Kome Caves are a national heritage site in Lesotho, and home to the descendants of those who originally made the caves. The dwellings mix classic living methods with that of modern and provide visitors with an excellent insight into the traditional community that make the caves their home.

The Lion Rock Mountain

The perfect stop during a journey out of Maseru. The Lion Rock Mountain is a lone peak that has retained its wilderness within the borders of the capital, set aside from development in nearby areas. The summit sports a great stone formation from which the rise gets its name and is a brilliant landmark to visit while on the road between the locations.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Lesotho is home to a variety of airfields all around the mountainous country. Its primary airport is Moshoeshoe I International Airport just outside of the capital Maseru.

For journeys across the country, taxis are available and well-placed for short journeys outside a timetable, as well as a range of bus services that routinely journey to popular tourist destinations. Alternatively, for a more custom travelling experience visitors can rent cars from the capital and make their way to the various and unique locations Lesotho has to offer.

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What should I know while traveling to Lesotho? Lesotho - Travel tips, healthcare, prices and safety guide August 2024 *

In this article you will find answers to the most important questions about travel to Lesotho. Tourists ask, among other things:

• Is it safe to visit Lesotho in 2024?
• What should I avoid in Lesotho?
• Is Lesotho a dangerous country?
• Is the tap water safe to drink in Lesotho?

Indexes, comparison and a presentation of data compilation

Local time: 11:41 am, book the best hotels in lesotho - in partnership with booking.com, compare hotel rates in lesotho and save up to 80%.

Avani Maseru Hotel

Tribute Guest House Matala

Hae Bed and Breakfast

Sani Stone Lodge

Blue Crane Guesthouse

Botleng Guest House

When is the best weather to travel to lesotho, climatic indexes and the best time to travel to lesotho.

Find out what is the best month to go to Lesotho. Here you can find information about the best time to enjoy sightseeing and traveling throughout Lesotho.

Are there any big traffic jams in Lesotho?

How to move around lesotho, what is the best way to travel in lesotho, public transport, communication, and traffic in lesotho, walking travel analysis, is it safe for tourists in lesotho, crime and threats in lesotho, is lesotho a safe country to visit, general information.

Blue Mountain Inn Lesotho

Maluti Stay Lodge

Ribaneng Lodge

Pollution in lesotho, is the air clean in lesotho, cleanliness and satisfaction of life in lesotho, travel expenses, prices and safety.

Hokahanya Inn & Conference Centre

Maliba Mountain Lodge

Lesotho - vaccines and health information, • what vaccinations before travelling to lesotho, • while traveling to lesotho you may have to deal with: hepatitis a, typhoid, hepatitis b, rabies, yellow fever. more info about vaccines», • should i be afraid of insects in lesotho, • bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases. many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. you can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites. what can i do to prevent bug bites cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats. use an appropriate insect repellent. use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). do not use permethrin directly on skin. stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms. use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors. more info about health and threats», • should i worry about germs in lesotho, • follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling: wash your hands often, especially before eating. if soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol). do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. if you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean. cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. try to avoid contact with people who are sick. if you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care. more info about health and threats», • what diseases and threats occur in lesotho, • should i be afraid of animals in lesotho, • most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened or protecting their territory, or if they are injured or ill. animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies. all animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around bats, monkeys, dogs, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. consider buying medical evacuation insurance. rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries. more info about health and threats», • should i be careful about what i eat and drink in lesotho, • unclean food and water can cause diarrhea and other diseases. reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits. talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick. eat: food that is cooked and served hot, hard-cooked eggs fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself pasteurized dairy products do not eat: food served at room temperature food from street vendors raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables unpasteurized dairy products drink: bottled water that is sealed water that has been disinfected ice made with bottled or disinfected water carbonated drinks hot coffee or tea pasteurized milk do not drink: tap or well water ice made with tap or well water drinks made with tap or well water unpasteurized milk more info about health and threats», travel safety, • is it safe to visit lesotho now is lesotho still a safe travel destination, • currently lesotho is an unsafe country. in recent years crime level has fallen., climate and weather, • when does the rain fall in lesotho, • slight chance of rain occurs in december, march, january., • when is the warmest weather in lesotho which months are the hottest, • lesotho is not a warm place. the warmest months are: january (27℃ / 80℉), december (26℃ / 78℉), february (25℃ / 77℉), november (24℃ / 75℉)., • hi, what weather can i expect in november, • in november you can expect 24℃ / 75℉ temperature in the day and 16℃ / 60℉ at night. the chances of rain are 11% and likelihood of a strong wind is 16%., • which month is the warmest in lesotho, • in lesotho and the warmest month in the surrounding area is january (27℃ / 80℉ in day and 18℃ / 64℉ at night)., transport and communication, • i plan to visit lesotho in march. i wonder if this is a polluted place, • lesotho is rather polluted. visiting is not very pleasant., • are there a lot of parks and green spaces in lesotho, • lesotho is a place with a lot of green spaces. lesotho offers a lot of gardens, squares and parks where tourists can enjoy a rest., • how tourists rate their stay in lesotho is this a well-kept place, • those who visited lesotho rate their stay rather positively., read about crime, safety, pollution, traffic jams and other statistics for specific cities in lesotho 2024.

Lesotho Population 2024 (Live)

Lesotho has a high infant mortality rate of 8.3% and a very high HIV/AIDS rate. The HIV prevalence is around 24%, which is one of the highest in the world. Around half of women under 40 have HIV in urban areas, and the country has a life expectancy of just 42 years old.

Lesotho Growth Rate

Lesotho population clock.

Net increase of 1 person every 20.28 minutes

Population estimates based on interpolation of data from World Population Prospects

Components of Population Change

Lesotho population density map, download table data.

Enter your email below, and you'll receive this table's data in your inbox momentarily.

Lesotho Population by Year (Historical)

Lesotho population by year (projections), lesotho population pyramid 2024, lesotho median age, lesotho population by age.

There are people over age 18 in Lesotho .

Census Years

Lesotho population pyramid.

Lesotho , officially the Kingdom of Lesotho, is a small landlocked country surrounded by South Africa . This compares to the 2004 census population of 2.03 million. Lesotho has a population density of 68 people per square kilometer (162/sq mi), or 138th in the world. Population density is lowest in the highlands. The capital and largest city is Maseru,

Lesotho Demographics

About 99.7% of Lesotho's population identifies as Basotho, a Bantu-speaking people. There are several subgroups of the Basotho, including the Batloung (Tlou), Bakuena (Kuena), Baphuthi (Phuti), Bataung (Tau), Batsoeneng (Tsoene), Matebele and Bafokeng. The main language is Sesotho, although English is the other official language.

About 90% of the population is Christian. Protestants make up 45% of the population, with Roman Catholics accounting for 45%. Muslims, Hindus, Baha'i, and indigenous religions account for the remaining 10%.

Lesotho has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa with about 85% of the adult population being literate, partly because Lesotho spends 12% of its GDP on education. Unlike most countries, Lesotho has a higher female literacy rate than male literacy rate.

About 25% of the population lives in urban areas while the majority live in rural areas. The urbanization rate of Lesotho is 3.5% per year, however. Nearly 40% of the population lives below the international poverty line of $1.25 USD per day.

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• World Population Prospects (2024 Revision) - United Nations population estimates and projections.

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On this page:, registration, how to register, registration fees, method of payment, cancellation policy, travel information.

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Getting Around Rotterdam

Registration must be completed, and payment received by August 29 , 2024, to incur the early bird rates. After this date, the rates will increase as per the table below.

Conference registration fees include Access to all Sessions, Morning, and Afternoon Breaks, Lunch Daily, and  Welcome  Reception , H appt Birthday ICRA Party and Farewell Reception.

Registration can only be confirmed once payment is received.

Payment can be made by any of the following methods:

• Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
• Wire payment

All refund requests must be made via email to ICRA40reg@ieee.org . All cancellations will be subject to a US$ 50.00 cancellation fee before  September  1 , 2024, 11:59pm EST. Refunds for cancellations received after September 1, 2024, will only be made in exceptional circumstances. Failure to obtain the appropriate visa to travel to the Netherlands does not constitute a refund. The name on the registration can be changed without penalty.

All best efforts will be made to present the program as published on the Conference website. The Conference and its agents reserve the right to alter without prior notice any of the arrangements, timetables, plans, or other items relating to the meeting for any cause beyond its reasonable control. The Organizing Committee and the Conference Organizers are not liable for any loss or inconvenience caused as a result of such alteration. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, the Organizing Committee and the Conference Organizers do not accept responsibility for loss of monies caused by delays. Participants are advised to take out personal travel insurance and to extend their policy to cover personal possessions. The Conference does not cover individuals against cancellations of bookings or theft or damage to belongings.

Thon Hotel Rotterdam

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Website: https://www.thonhotels.com/our-hotels/netherlands/rotterdam/thon-hotel-rotterdam/

Requests can be emailed to: reservations@thonhotels.nl

Please mention conference IEEE, the name of the guest, arrival and departure dates and a CC number for guarantee purposes.

Hotel New York

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Reservation link:

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ss Rotterdam

ss Rotterdam – New booking (mews.com)

Ibis Ahoy – near Ahoy Conference Centre

(no IEEE rates)

https://all.accor.com/hotel/B9R9/index.en.shtml

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Hilton rotterdam.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is located 3.0 miles / 4.8 kilometers from Rotterdam.  For information regarding airport, please refer to airport’s  website .

Airport Transportation (Rotterdam the Hague Airport)

There are various options for transportation to and from Rotterdam the Hague Airport (RTM) including taxis, ride share, airport shuttle and metro. Additional information can be found at the  Rotterdam The Hague Airport Accessibility and Transport webpage .

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is located 29.3 miles / 47.2 kilometers from Rotterdam.  For information regarding airport, please refer to airport’s Amsterdam Airport Schiphol  website .

Airport Transportation (Amsterdam Airport Schiphol)

There are various options for transportation to and from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) including high-speed train, taxis, ride share and bus. Additional information can be found at the airports “ Get transport from Schiphol ” webpage.

One of the fastest and greenest ways to get to Rotterdam is to travel by train. International direct trains from Belgium, France, the UK and Germany arrive and many times a day at  Rotterdam Central Station .

Rotterdam can easily be reached by car, using the A4, A13, A15, A16 and A20 motorways. Exits to Rotterdam Centrum are clearly marked on signs.

You can travel to Rotterdam by ferry from the United Kingdom. P&O Ferries and Stena Line offer regular ferry services between the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. Stena sails from Harwich, England to Hook of Holland, and it takes 30 minutes to travel from there to Rotterdam. P&O sails from Hull to Rotterdam Europoort. De Jong tours operates a shuttle service between Rotterdam Europoort and the city.

There are many ways to get around Rotterdam. Some of the available options are:

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7 Last-Minute Escapes for Labor Day Weekend

If you’re still hoping to stretch out the last days of summer, there are places in North America that are not too hot, not too crowded and not necessarily that far away.

By Shannon Sims

It might sound like an impossible request: a last-minute Labor Day getaway with gorgeous weather and minimal crowds that you can squeeze into a long weekend. There are good reasons many destinations across North America won’t fit the bill. Wildfires are burning in some parts of the West, tropical disturbances are brewing in the Caribbean, the East Coast’s coastal retreats are packed, and much of the South is sweaty and oh so steamy. But if you’re still hoping to stretch out the last days of summer, there are places that are not too hot, not too crowded and not necessarily that far away.

Here are seven inspirations in North America for a Labor Day getaway.

North Carolina

Hike to magical waterfalls

Less than an hour’s drive from downtown Asheville, N.C., and covering 500,000-plus acres, Pisgah National Forest is a magical place to be immersed in nature. American goldfinches and Carolina chickadees sing high above waterfalls framed by lush green trees, and babbling streams pour down moss-covered rocks hiding salamanders, newts and crayfish.

During the summer, these wooded areas are chock-full of children at summer camp, and the trails are often busy with hikers. But by Labor Day, most of the kids have returned home, while the weather is often perfect, with average temperatures in the seventies. You have your pick of activities — bird-watching, fly fishing, waterfall dousing and hiking.

Easy trails can be found at the North Carolina Arboretum , but for a shaded, moderate hike to a waterfall in which you can douse, check out Catawba Falls Trail . For another moderate hike (but no swimming), there is Linville Gorge and Falls , nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians. Advanced hikers can summit the 6,684-foot Mount Mitchell , the highest peak in the Eastern United States, in Mount Mitchell State Park, which is surrounded by Pisgah Forest.

Later, make your way back to Asheville , where a robust restaurant and brewery scene offers a perfect setting for sharing stories of your day. Local favorites include Cúrate for upscale tapas, Chai Pani for Indian food and Wicked Weed Brewing for hoppy deliciousness.

See San Francisco’s best-loved sights

“The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco,” may be a clichéd phrase, but anyone who has visited this California city during the summer most likely experienced fog, dank air and brisk wind. But September and October are San Francisco’s warmest and brightest months of the year.

A long weekend is just enough for first timers to sample the city’s best-known attractions. Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge . Board a cable car as it clangs up and down the city’s hills. Explore Alcatraz Island on a three-hour tour (book ahead). Take in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, which may be less chaotic with many children back in school. Watch a home game of the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park , right on the bay. Or check out the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a newly developed stretch of national park land featuring stunning panoramic views.

The city is a particularly special destination for those interested in L.G.B.T.Q. history. The GLBT Historical Society Museum , nicknamed the Queer Smithsonian, is a good place to start, as is a stroll through the Castro neighborhood or a stop at the Castro’s first gay bar, opened in 1963 as the Missouri Mule (now called Beaux).

Swim, fish, boat, then sip, at the Finger Lakes

One of the largest Finger Lakes in upstate New York, Keuka Lake stretches about 20 miles and draws visitors with clear-water swimming, paddling, kayaking and fishing. Labor Day marks the end of its high summer season.

Visitors can use picnic tables, playgrounds and swimming areas off sandy beaches at Keuka Lake State Park near Branchport or Red Jacket Park in the village of Penn Yan, on the lake’s northern end.

On its southern shores, the charming village of Hammondsport has cafes, shops and restaurants, many of which are clustered around the Pulteney Square Historic District .

Fishing is a big draw, with brown trout, yellow perch and more inhabiting the lake’s deep waters. You can buy your own fishing equipment at Jake’s Boat Livery , or get the professionals to do it by chartering a fishing expedition through Summit to Stream Adventures .

Don’t forget the wine: 20 vineyards are scattered around the lakeshore, with six part of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail . You can visit most wineries on your own or with a tour.

Keuka Lake is a one- to two-hour drive from airports in Rochester, Ithaca, Syracuse or Buffalo. The lake is about a five-hour drive from New York City.

Soak your stress away in alpine splendor

During Labor Day weekend, the I-70 corridor that connects Denver to the ski towns to the west, like Winter Park, Keystone and Breckenridge, can be bumper to bumper, especially getting back on Monday.

But nestled in the San Juan Mountains, about an hour’s drive from Telluride, is Ouray, an often overlooked gem for outdoor fun. Sure, there’s great hiking and canyoning, but there aren’t many towns where you can stroll down Main Street and stop into a boutique for shopping, a cafe for coffee and a hot springs for soaking. Ouray Hot Springs Pool is sulfur-free — in other words, no rotten-egg stink — and offers not just one pool but many: The family-friendly pools feature water slides, a volleyball net and a rolling log, while the adults-only soaking section is kept between 102 and 106 degrees.

Montrose Regional Airport , about an hour’s drive from Ouray, has direct flights to Chicago, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver.

Sample delicious urban delights

You won’t scratch the surface of what Mexico City offers in a long weekend, so consider tossing away those checklists and instead soak up the atmosphere in one or two neighborhoods.

Start by signing up for the city’s bike share app, Ecobici , for an easy way to get around town. The Roma neighborhood, a favorite among travelers, has shaded, walkable streets; inviting plazas; and some of the city’s best restaurants. For a neighborhood with a tad fewer tourists, try La Condesa , a short bike ride from Roma and between the two lovely green spaces called Bosque de Chapultepec and Parque México . Shopaholics should visit Polanco , where the commercial thoroughfare Presidente Masaryk Avenue offers luxury stores.

Whichever neighborhood you pick to explore, you’ll be delighted by the quality and flavors of food offered at the city’s restaurants, food carts and 11,000-plus taco shops. Even if a corner spot looks shabby, it might be producing food that could rank among the best bites you’ve ever had. Look no further than Taquería El Califa de León, an unassuming taco stand that won a Michelin star this year , as an example of the culinary magic that lies around any given corner.

Nova Scotia

Time-travel in a 1700s fishing village

About 62 miles southwest of downtown Halifax along Nova Scotia’s South Shore, breezy Lunenburg is a fishing village with charm — and fresh seafood — to spare.

Old Town Lunenburg is considered by UNESCO as the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. Its colorful homes face tall ships moored in the harbor, transporting visitors back to the 1700s. Stroll around the area on your own, popping into local shops and restaurants, or sign up for a walking tour .

At the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic , part of the Nova Scotia Museum , you can experience what life was like in a fishing village throughout the centuries, from early Mi’kmaq communities to the arrival of Black Loyalists in 1783 to today. The museum is housed in an old fish processing plant, and the Old Fish Factory Restaurant now serves Nova Scotia lobster rolls on a wharf-side patio.

Fresh lobster is available year-round in Nova Scotia, so check out some stops on the Nova Scotia Lobster Trail . But don’t forget much of the Atlantic’s bounty: mussels, scallops, halibut, Arctic char, cod — even a seaweed called dulse — can be found on local menus.

Roam and ride in the sand dunes

The Great Lakes were made for summer, but the challenge is finding a spot that isn’t too crowded. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a destination even many Michiganders don’t know about.

Located an hour-and-a-half drive from Grand Rapids on Lake Michigan’s western coastline, the dunes comprise 2,000 acres and are part of Silver Lake State Park. Even though they are situated in the heart of the United States, the dunes will make you feel as if you’re roaming the sands of Arabia.

Activities at the park include swimming, canoeing and horseback riding along the beach, or hiking through the surrounding evergreen forests.

But a classic way to explore the dunes is through Mac Wood’s Dune Rides , a local company that for nearly a century has been taking visitors in open-top trucks for thrilling and informative rides through the sand.

While in the area, be sure to visit the Little Sable Point Lighthouse , an 1874 tower that was made more accessible to the public in 2010. Climb the tower and take in the lake, forests and dunes below.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

Disney Theme Parks:  As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves  if they should rethink their vacations.

Helsinki, Finland:   Explore the stunning architecture  of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago.

Salzburg, Austria:  The compact Austrian city of medieval alleys, majestic Alpine views and just 150,000 residents bursts to life in the summer .

Plan & Book

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Aug 19, 2024

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