Experience the breathtaking scenery of Lesotho’s highlands with panoramic views toward Jonathan’s Gate and Bushman’s Nek Pass in the Southern Drakensberg, where rugged landscapes, winding mountain passes, and rich cultural heritage come together in a remote setting.

Travel to Lesotho

Gateway to the Highlands, Jonathan’s Gate and Bushman’s Nek Pass in the Southern Drakensberg

© Arthur Hickinbothami

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Travel to Lesotho

Lesotho is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, entirely surrounded by South Africa. Its high-altitude terrain, characterized by mountains, rivers, and plateaus, influences both its culture and daily life. The capital, Maseru, serves as the main entry point, offering modern facilities alongside cultural sites such as the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and the Basotho Hat craft market, where visitors can find locally made handicrafts.


A short distance from the capital, Thaba Bosiu holds historical significance as the stronghold of King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of Lesotho. The site features remnants of ancient fortifications and a royal cemetery, with guided tours providing insights into its history. Further into the country, Maletsunyane Falls, located near Semonkong, stands out as a single-drop waterfall that attracts visitors for its scenery and hiking opportunities. In winter, mist from the falls creates unique conditions.


The Lesotho Highlands Water Project, an important engineering initiative, includes Katse Dam, which supplies water to both Lesotho and South Africa. Guided tours offer details on its construction and function, while the surrounding reservoir presents opportunities for boat trips and birdwatching.

Ts’ehlanyane National Park, another destination for nature enthusiasts, contains hiking trails that pass through indigenous forests, home to plant species unique to the region, as well as diverse wildlife. Visitors can also explore the park on horseback.


Sani Pass, a well-known mountain route, connects Lesotho with South Africa and is popular among off-road travelers. The journey leads to Mokhotlong, a town where traditional Basotho culture remains prominent. Further east, Sehlabathebe National Park features grasslands, rock formations, and varied plant and animal life. Its remote location makes it well-suited for outdoor exploration.


Lesotho’s culture is reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine, as well as in the distinctive Basotho blanket, a widely worn traditional garment. Local villages provide opportunities to experience daily life, including horseback riding using Basotho ponies, which remain an important mode of transport in the highlands. The country’s landscapes, history, and traditions create a destination that blends cultural heritage with outdoor experiences.

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Must Visit in Lesotho

Lesotho, the Kingdom of the Sky. Explore the Maloti Mountains, highland villages, and iconic waterfalls while experiencing

traditional Basotho hospitality, history, and breathtaking panoramic views!


Thaba-Bosiu

A historic plateau where King Moshoeshoe I founded Lesotho. Located near the capital city, Maseru, the site features ancient fortifications and a royal cemetery, offering panoramic views and guided tours explaining its role in shaping the Basotho nation.

Maletsunyane Falls

A spectacular single-drop waterfall cascading down from the heights of the Thaba Putsoa Mountains, near the quaint village of Semonkong, which in the local language means ‘place of smoke’, due to the watery and ‘smoky’ dust released by the bursting energy of the waterfall.

Sani Pass on Drakensberg

The legendary Sani Pass provides the only road link between KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho, and is the only road crossing the summit of the high Drakensberg.  The views from this altitude are awe-inspiring, with snow and frozen waterfalls in winter, and a blaze of flower blooms in summer.

Morija & Ha Kome Caves

A historic town known for the Morija Museum & Archives, which preserves Basotho history, art, and traditions and a site to explore ancient cave homes, San rock art . The area hosts cultural festivals and offers scenic walking trails providing further insights into Lesotho’s heritage.

Bokong Nature Reserve

Located in the Highland Areas, Bokong offers stunning views overlooking the Katse Dam. A small but very scenic and hiker-friendly reserve spanning altitudes of 2,800 to 3,200m. It is best-known as the site of the attractive Lepaqoa Falls, which often freezes in winter.

Sehlabathebe National Park

The oldest nature reserve in the country, is remote and almost inaccessible, but predictably peaceful and stunningly beautiful. Located in the Drakensberg region, it features grasslands, rock formations, caves with ancient rock art, and unique flora and fauna.

Lesotho in Video

Nothing documents a destination better than a short video and that applies to Lesotho as well.

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Must Do in Lesotho

Each destination offers its own experiences and here are some "must do" activities to experience in Lesotho!



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Best Time to visit Lesotho

Lesotho’s seasons offer distinct experiences, making different times of the year ideal depending on activities and preferences.


Summer (December to February) brings warm temperatures and lush green landscapes, making it a great time for hiking, pony trekking, and exploring national parks. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, adding to the dramatic scenery.


Autumn (March to May) sees cooler temperatures and drier conditions, with golden hues covering the highlands. This season is ideal for outdoor adventures, cultural festivals, and scenic drives, offering clear skies and comfortable weather.


Winter (June to August) transforms Lesotho into a snow-covered landscape, perfect for skiing and snowboarding at Afriski, the only ski resort in Southern Africa. It’s also a great time for stargazing and photography in crisp, clear conditions.


Spring (September to November) marks the return of warmer temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and flowing rivers, making it a prime season for nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring waterfalls before the summer rains begin.


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Lesotho Travel Tips

By default, since we only work on a tailor-made basis, each of our travel projects will always be accompanied by our travel tips on the destinations to be visited. These will of course be adapted to the type of trip envisaged and the reality of the activities and places visited. If you would like general travel advice for Lesotho, please don't hesitate to contact us via the "contact us" button.

Where to Stay in Lesotho

Lesotho offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury lodges and hotels to cozy guesthouses, eco-lodges, and traditional Basotho homestays  Our mission is to help you select what you like best. While inviting you to explore new options.


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Lesotho Combines Well With

Lesotho Lesotho is entirely surrounded. As a result, it will almost always be combined with a visit the neighboring

or somewhat further destinations. For example:.


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