They say the best thing comes in small packages. This little landlocked country offers a pocket-sized bundle of stunning hiking opportunities, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking mountain scenery. You would think the proverb was written with Lesotho in mind.
With ample opportunity to get back to nature and fascinating cultural heritage, Lesotho is a slice of African paradise. Or what else do you call a place where you are woken up by an exotic sunrise in lush, supreme wildlife, an extraordinary family of elephants, warm people, and a chance to connect with ancient cultures? The contrast does not do Lesotho justice.
Lesotho has something for every traveler, so whether you are after outdoor activities (Water sports, skiing, snowboarding, or mountain biking), exploring historical sites or get, ting off the grid like never before, Lesotho got you covered!
Snow lovers rejoice! Lesotho is also famous for its stunning scenery, including snow-capped mountain ranges in winter. It is the perfect destination to go to if you want to hone your snowboarding and skiing skills, and if that, is not your thing, then visiting to check out the scenery is just as good. Come and experience what this amazing country proudly showcases!
Lesotho Capital: Maseru
Population: 2,135,416 people
Area 30,355 km²
Major Religion: Christianity
Official Language: Sesotho and English
Climate: Lesotho summer starts from December – March, and the winter season begins from June – September. Thus, the best time to visit Lesotho is between October and November and between March and April.
Dialing code: +266
Lesotho Currency
Currency: Lesotho Loti
Symbols: M, L
DESTINATION AND CULTURE
Subeng Dinosaur footprints
When we said, Lesotho had it all; we weren’t joking. The Subeng dinosaur footprints feature the prints of a variety of prehistoric animals that lived approximately 200 million years ago. Situated about 8 kilometers north of Hlotse, this is an unmissable site.
Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village
Thaba Bosiu is a national monument and known to be the birthplace of the Basotho people. The sandstone plateau is home to a fortress established by King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho Nation. For culture enthusiasts, this is once in a lifetime experience. Their epic history is mind-blowing!
Ha Kome Historical Cave dwelling
These stunning and well-preserved caves are home to descendants of the Bataung and Basia clans. From pony treks to picnicking in the area, you can get your hands on authentic, locally produced crafts at the nearby Kome Crafts.
Lesotho clothing
Basotho women wear long skirts and dresses in vibrant patterns and colors with comfy blankets around their waits, and for special occasions, they wear Seshoeshoe – traditional Basotho Dress.
Lesotho Cuisine
Lesotho is a hotbed of hospitality with diverse restaurants serving different food across the globe – at some of the best prices.
Notable traditional foods include; Braai (Southern Africa barbecue), seafood, vegetables, and rice. Any backpacker who has traveled through Lesotho will have tried Lesotho’s favorite barbeque… Braai. The taste of the Braai is incredible. You will probably be in heaven!
Malealea
In these rocky mountains, maize, agave, and stretch as far as your pony can run.
Maloti Mountains and Sehlabathebe National Park
The Maloti Mountains and Sehlabathebe National Park are at the heart of the country and hold rich plant, animal, and birdlife. If you are lucky, you will spot the rare bearded vulture.
Katse Dam
Katse Dam, home to the highest dam wall in Africa, is another must-visit and the place to go for uninterrupted views of the breathtaking landscape.
Maletsunyane Falls
At 204m, this unbeatable waterfall offers the backdrop to the world’s highest commercial abseiling Feat. Here you can find one-of-a-kind experiences and sights that will set up a camp in your heart.
Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest national park in Southern Africa and home to not only an estimated 550 elephants but to Africa’s Big Seven: Best of all, it lies in the malaria-free Sundays River Valley in the Eastern Cap, making it a perfect place to relax, unwind and reconnect with your inner child. Safari lovers AWE!
Drakensberg Mountains
Whether you are looking to spend some quiet time with your other half, or family, bond with nature, or get your pulse racing with an adventure-packed activity, this majestic mountain got you covered! Drakensberg Mountain range extends through Lesotho to Eastern Cape province. You can try your hand at abseiling, wine tasting, or perfecting your swing on the golf course. Here all is possible.
Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park – UNESCO
The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg National Park received recognition from the World Heritage Site and holds exceptional beauty in its incisive dramatic cutbacks, rocky gorges, and soaring basaltic buttresses. Activities such as fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching are recommended. For daredevils, go on, take a walk on the wild side. uKhahlamba-Drakensberg National Park rarely disappoints!
How to get a visa to Lesotho
- Fill out and sign the application form. Attach your passport (2 coloreds) valid for at least six months from the time of arrival in the Kingdom of Lesotho. The passport should have a minimum of two blank visa pages and be taken within 6 months of travel. Also, attach documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit to Lesotho!
Helpful Travelling tips
- Book through an agent directly to save costs. Since OTA’s takes commissions
- Currency and Banking. The currency of Lesotho is Lesotho Loti. There are approximately 1L = $ 068.
- Quick Peep! Most major currencies can be exchanged at hotels, ATMs, and banks across Lesotho, while the South African Rand is used interchangeably with Maloti.
- You need to bring an unlocked smartphone with you. You can get a sim card for your stay, which will allow you to add minutes and be able to call your family or friends.
- Recommended packing list. Sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, camera, and a portable backpack with a zipper for daily use.
- Dress Modest