Lesotho or often pronounced as "Lee-soo-tu/Le-zoo-tu" is a landlocked country, situated in the South African region. The country is surrounded by South Africa on all sides. Lesotho is also called an enclaved country, as it is one of the countries landlocked completely inside another single nation-state. Somewhat similar to 'San Marino' and the 'Vatican City', the kingdom of Lesotho is one of the three countries in the entire world to be known as an enclaved country. The country is known for its cold temperate weather, making it one of the best places to visit in the summer months. Maseru is the capital city of Lesotho and also the largest city. One single citizen of the country is called a 'Mosotho' and more than one is called 'Basotho'. The name Lesotho translates to 'the land of Sesotho speakers' which is one of the official languages apart from English. Let's discover Lesotho tourism with this travel guide.
Useful Information about The Kingdom of LesothoLesotho is located on mountainous terrain and due to its heightened elevation from the sea level, it possesses several challenges. However, Vodacom Lesotho (VCL) and Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) are the two companies prominent in the region. Both companies have made a substantial investment into the infrastructure for network connectivity. They have a good setup in place covering some of the even remote regions of the country.
Basutoland, now popularly known as Lesotho, was invaded by the British in 1959 and was called the territory of Basutoland. On 4th October 1966, Basutoland gained complete independence from the British colonial rule and became Lesotho. Lesotho witnessed the election of its first Prime Minister in the form of Jonathan Leabua.
The country also witnessed a takeover by its military, which forced King Moshoeshoe II into exile. Twenty-three years later in 1993, a constitutional government was restored, which included seven years of military rule as well. In exchange for electricity from its neighbouring country of South Africa, Lesotho became its major supplier of water.
Surrounded by South Africa, Lesotho is called the Sky Kingdom of Africa. Lesotho is the only state in the world that entirely lies 1000 meters above sea level. Like literally, the lowest point in the country of Lesotho is 1400 meters above sea level. The tallest peak in the country is named 'Thabana Ntlenyana' at 3,482 meters.
The country is bordered by the Caledon "MOHOKAREâ river to the northwest and four mountain ranges from the centre to the east. The Orange River flows through the country originating from South Africa. The largest lake in the country is the Katse Dam Reservoir, artificially formed on the Malibamatso River. The unique location helps drive Lesotho tourism, especially its famous ski resort.
'Basotho' is the traditional music of Lesotho and has a very distinct note to it. The music is played
with unique instruments, from makeshift versions of modern instruments to drums made of tubes from a
tyre. The Basotho musicians are often seen breaking into a groove, very prominent during
celebrations.
Paintings in Lesotho have remained more or less the same, with ancient paintings
still found in the cave settlements made by the people of the Sani tribe.
With 11% of the population into sustenance farming, Lesotho grows its produce. A lot of their meals
also include freshwater fish, oxtail, curries, and kebabs. Potatoes are found in abundance and are
also one of the favourite vegetables of the Basotho people. Cassava and porridge may also be found
quite often.
The area is popular for its Maluti Beer and one could find it in several local
bars set up around communities. They also consume locally brewed Ginger beer. One of Lesotho's
traditional soups is Ting (made of porridge).
Motoho (national dish) | sauteed or grilled veggies | Chakalaka stew | Oxtail stew | Lipabi | Nyekoe
Must-Try Lesotho DrinksMaluti Beer | Ginger Beer
Lesotho HospitalityBasotho people are the descendants of ancient bushmen that occupied ancient Lesotho. The head of the state King Lydia III is a direct descendant of King Moshoeshoe I, the first ruler of Lesotho. Lesotho offers its visitors a dive into its unique history, vibrant cultures, picturesque landscapes, and terrain free from any form of pollution. Lesotho tourism thrives on the hospitality of the Basotho people.
Situated in a temperate climate, the temperature in Lesotho might reach as high as 30â in summers and as low as -7â. Depending on the terrain and location, the temperature may vary, there are parts of Lesotho that witness snowfall year-round. The best time to visit Lesotho is anywhere between March and April and September and October. The summer months of November to March are also suitable, apart from the occasional downpour.
The waterfalls of the Maletsunyane Falls create a picturesque experience for any traveller. The falls are surrounded by a lush and green patch of land, which makes the spot a perfect place for hosting picnics. The country of Lesotho welcomes travellers with open arms and, thus, does not have any kind of extra charge to set up a tent or picnic on the spot. The only thing to keep in mind is not to litter the place.
Best time to visit: March and April, September and October
Entry fee: Free
Situated on the border of South Africa and Lesotho, the lodge is situated 2874 meters above sea level. The site has been marked as a UNESCO world heritage site and is by far the best-kept secrets in the African subcontinent. The lodge can only be accessed by traversing the path of the Sani mountain pass, in a 4x4.
Best time to visit: September and October
Entry fee: $85
One of the most popular ski resorts in the African continent is a major tourist attraction among various travellers. The ski resort is one of a kind in the African continent and garners major attention from several travellers. The resort is a haven for all adventure seekers and hosts many activities on its premises. The resort not only caters to sports but also provides lodging facilities.
Best time to visit: March and April, September and October
Entry fee: $95
Other Popular Places to Visit in Lesotho
Every year in August, the Afriski resort host's a winter music festival in the Afriski resort. The 3-day event takes place in the resort and witnesses many events and fun activities take place. The event features many sports activities and snow-covered fun, all dipped in the sound of music.
Location : Afriski Resort
Date: 26 August - 29 August
The Lesotho Jazz Festival is a very special event that takes place in December. The event witnesses mass gatherings of musicians from all the southern parts of the country of Africa including Lesotho. The event is a massive hit, as Jazz is popular in almost every region of Africa and Lesotho is no exception.
Location : Maseru
Date: December
The Passport requirement for entering Lesotho remains the same as for any other country. That is, the passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months post the dates of travel and stay.
Visa-On-Arrival/eVisa/ Visa-Free EntryThe country offers two kinds of Lesotho e-visa:
The Lesotho e-visa policy requirements require the tourist to announce the following at the immigration.
The Kingdom of Lesotho is spread across mountainous terrain, because of which not many transport options are available. The roads were limited, but now have extended deep into the Lesotho terrain. The government of Lesotho in tandem with the World Bank has developed solutions and built roads increasing the sustainability of the region.
Road ToursThe locals mostly make use of the Basotho horse for their day-to-day commercial travel. However, if on a trip, it is best recommended to rent a car from the airport or travel via road from South Africa. The roads that traverse across the country are A1, A2 A3, A4 and A5.
Water ToursNo known means of water transport are known to traverse the treacherous waters of Lesotho.
Train ToursThere are no rail lines in the Kingdom of Lesotho up until now.
Air ToursThe only international airport in the country is Moshoeshoe I International airport (IATA: MSU) which only allows flights to South Africa. Then we have the infamous Matekane airstrip which ends off in a cliff, termed as one of the scariest runways.
Even with limited access through roads, the majority of the people who come to Lesotho are through South Africa. The national highway N8 from South Africa is the most popular route into the country that opens up into Maseru. From there, travellers can choose the A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5 national highways to travel across the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Via Air RouteYou can reach Lesotho by air by taking a flight to Johannesburg, and from there, take a connecting flight to Moshoeshoe I International airport in Lesotho.
These are the mountains of the highlands of the country of Lesotho. The mountain range consists of one of the highest mountain peaks in southern Africa. The Maluti mountain range creates a picturesque view that transforms itself into a massive life-like portrait.
JohannesburgOften referred to as Jozi, Jodurg or 'The City of Gold', Johannesburg is one of the biggest cities in South Africa. The city is part of the wealthiest province in South Africa.
Police/Ambulance - +266 5888-1024
Lesotho Loti (LSL) is the national currency of Lesotho. Often the South African Rand (ZAR) may also be used in the country for trade between traders.
Symbol: L/M
Banknotes:
M200, M100, M50, M20, M10, M5, M2
Coins: 50 Lisente, 20 Lisente, 10 Lisente, 5 Lisente, 2 Lisente, 1 Lisente
LESOTHO CURRENCY CONVERSIONS:
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