Located in the mountains and fully surrounded by South Africa, Lesotho is a country that often goes unnoticed by visitors.
- Thaba Bosiu: Begin your Lesotho adventure with a visit to Thaba Bosiu, a historical site that served as the stronghold of the Basotho people during various wars. Explore the ruins, learn about the tribal history, and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Maletsunyane Falls: Admire the Maletsunyane Falls, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in Africa. The dramatic 192-meter cascades provide a setting for adventure seekers, offering activities such as abseiling and hiking in the surrounding Maloti Mountains.
- Sani Pass: Experience an exhilarating journey up the Sani Pass, a challenging mountain road that connects South Africa to Lesotho. Enjoy panoramic views as you traverse hairpin bends and steep gradients, leading to the Sani Top Chalet, where you can savor a well-deserved drink.
- Sehlabathebe National Park: Immerse yourself in Lesotho’s natural wonders at Sehlabathebe National Park. Explore its untouched landscapes, dotted with wildflowers and rock formations. Take a leisurely hike, spot wildlife, and camp under the starlit sky.
- Katse Dam: Witness the engineering marvel of the Katse Dam, which not only serves as a vital water resource but also offers spectacular views. Take a guided tour of the dam’s infrastructure and gain insights into Lesotho’s hydroelectric projects.
- Pony Trekking: Embrace a traditional mode of transport and embark on a pony trekking adventure. Traverse Lesotho’s rugged terrain, villages, and remote valleys, guided by friendly locals who share their stories and culture along the way.
- Ha Kome Cave Dwellings: Step back in time by visiting the Ha Kome Cave Dwellings. These caves, hewn out of sandstone, have been home to the local Basotho people for centuries. Discover their traditions, admire the rock art, and gain insight into their way of life.
- Thabana Ntlenyana: Conquer Thabana Ntlenyana, the highest peak in Southern Africa. Challenge yourself with a thrilling hike that leads to the mountain’s summit, rewarding you with views stretching across Lesotho and its surrounding countries.
- Morija: Uncover Lesotho’s cultural heritage in the village of Morija. Visit the Morija Museum, showcasing traditional Basotho artifacts and artworks. Attend the annual Morija Arts & Cultural Festival, a celebration of music, dance, and heritage.
- Malealea: Immerse yourself in the laid-back charm of Malealea and its surrounding community. Embark on scenic hikes, explore the local markets, and witness traditional Basotho activities such as pony racing and herding.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Experiences:
- Ts’ehlanyane National Park: Discover the lesser-known Ts’ehlanyane National Park, known for its mountain scenery, crystal-clear streams, and endemic flora. Experience tranquility as you explore isolated hiking trails and camp amidst Lesotho’s untouched wilderness.
- Masitise Cave House Museum: Explore the hidden treasures of the Masitise Cave House Museum. This establishment showcases the life and work of renowned Basotho artist and teacher, Franco Frescura, who transformed a limestone cave into an art studio.
- Tse’hlanyane Cultural Village: Engage in an authentic cultural experience at the Tse’hlanyane Cultural Village, where you can learn from locals and participate in traditional activities such as weaving, pottery, and cooking traditional Basotho dishes.
- Pony Migration: Witness the spectacle of the annual pony migration. Each year, locals guide thousands of ponies from the highlands to the lowlands, showcasing Lesotho’s deep-rooted relationship with these resilient animals.
- Thabaphaswa Mountain Sanctuary: Discover a sanctuary of serene beauty at the Thabaphaswa Mountain Sanctuary. Enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching activities as you explore landscapes and age-old rock formations.
- Kome Caves Village: Venture to Kome Caves Village, an off-the-beaten-track gem that offers a glimpse into the Lesotho of yesteryear. Stay overnight in a traditional Basotho hut and engage in storytelling sessions with the local community.
- Roma Trading Post Experience While Lesotho may not be as commonly depicted in films as some other countries, here are five notable movies that have scenes or themes set in Lesotho: