Lesotho Travel Information

Lesotho, also known as the "Kingdom in the Sky," is a small mountainous country in southern Africa. Despite its size, Lesotho offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions for visitors. From its rugged landscapes to its vibrant culture, there are plenty of things to see and do in Lesotho. Here are the top 10 things to do in Lesotho.

1. Explore the Maluti Mountains

Lesotho's rugged terrain is dominated by the Maluti Mountains, which offer stunning vistas and excellent hiking opportunities.

2. Visit the Sehlabathebe National Park

Sehlabathebe National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

3. Learn about traditional Basotho culture at the Morija Museum and Archives

The Morija Museum and Archives is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Basotho people, the indigenous inhabitants of Lesotho.

4. Take a pony trek through the countryside

Pony trekking is a popular way to explore Lesotho's rugged terrain and experience the country's unique culture and way of life.

5. Visit the historic town of Thaba Bosiu

Thaba Bosiu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the Basotho nation. Visitors can learn about the history of the country and its people at the onsite museum.

6. Experience the Maletsunyane Falls

The Maletsunyane Falls are one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in Africa and offer a breathtaking sight for visitors.

7. Ski at AfriSki Mountain Resort

AfriSki Mountain Resort is Lesotho's only ski resort, offering a unique winter sports experience in the heart of the African continent.

8. Explore the Katse Dam and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project

The Katse Dam and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project are a marvel of engineering, providing water to South Africa and generating hydroelectric power for Lesotho.

9. Visit the historic town of Maseru

Maseru is the capital of Lesotho and offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional Basotho culture.

10. Attend a traditional Basotho festival

Lesotho is home to a number of vibrant cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Morija Arts and Cultural Festival and the Maletsunyane Braai Festival. Attending one of these festivals is a great way to experience the country's rich culture and traditions.

Lesotho's climate is largely determined by its high elevation, with temperatures varying depending on altitude. The country has a relatively dry climate with most of its precipitation falling during the summer months. Here's what you need to know about the climate and the best time to visit Lesotho.

Climate

Lesotho has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The country's high elevation means that temperatures can vary widely depending on altitude, with temperatures dropping by about 1 degree Celsius for every 200 meters of elevation gain. Summers (December to February) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Winters (June to August) are cold and dry with temperatures ranging from -7°C to 15°C.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lesotho is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, and the temperatures are cooler, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. The winter months (June to August) are particularly popular for skiing at AfriSki Mountain Resort. The summer months (December to February) can be hot and humid, but they are a great time to experience Lesotho's vibrant cultural festivals. It's important to note that temperatures can drop below freezing at night even during the summer months, so visitors should bring warm clothing regardless of the time of year.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Lodges

Lodges are a popular accommodation option in Lesotho, especially for visitors looking for a cozy and intimate setting. They often offer a range of activities and experiences, such as hiking, pony trekking, and cultural tours. Most lodges have a rustic and traditional feel, with comfortable rooms, communal areas, and home-cooked meals.

Hotels

Lesotho has a few hotels, particularly in the capital city of Maseru, which offer a more upscale and luxurious experience. These hotels typically have modern amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, and bars, as well as conference facilities for business travelers. Some of the hotels are located in scenic areas with beautiful views of the mountains.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular accommodation option in Lesotho, particularly for visitors looking for a more affordable option. They offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities like en-suite bathrooms, TV, and Wi-Fi. Many guesthouses are family-run, providing a homely and welcoming atmosphere.

Campsites

For visitors who prefer to be closer to nature, camping is a great option. Lesotho has a few campsites, some of which are located in national parks or other scenic areas. These campsites offer basic amenities like running water, toilets, and fire pits.

Huts

In some remote parts of Lesotho, huts are available as an accommodation option. These huts are often located in small villages and offer a unique cultural experience, as visitors can interact with the local people and learn about their way of life. However, these huts have very basic amenities and are best suited for adventurous travelers.

Car rental

Car rental is a popular way to get around Lesotho, as it offers flexibility and the ability to explore the country at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate in the country, and rental rates are generally affordable. However, it's important to note that some of the roads in Lesotho are unpaved and can be rough, so it's important to rent a sturdy vehicle, such as a 4x4.

Taxis

Taxis are available in Lesotho, particularly in larger towns and cities like Maseru. They are an affordable way to get around, but fares are not fixed, so it's important to agree on a price with the driver before beginning your journey. It's also worth noting that taxis may not be available in more remote parts of the country.

Minibuses

Minibuses are a common form of public transportation in Lesotho, and they run on set routes between towns and cities. They are affordable and convenient, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially on longer journeys. Minibuses don't have a fixed schedule, so it's best to ask locals or at the bus station about departure times.

Pony trekking

In more remote areas of Lesotho, pony trekking is a popular mode of transportation. Visitors can hire ponies and local guides to explore the countryside, and this is a great way to experience the traditional Basotho way of life. Pony trekking is a slower and more immersive way to travel, but it may not be practical for longer journeys.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is not uncommon in Lesotho, particularly in more remote parts of the country where transportation options are limited. While it's generally safe, it's important to exercise caution and common sense, particularly when traveling alone or at night. It's also polite to offer a small payment to the driver as a token of appreciation.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.