It may come as a surprise that there are plenty of fun things to do in Lesotho, the tiny little (slightly unknown) landlocked country within South Africa.
Yes, you read that right; it’s a country within a country, joining San Marino and Vatican City – what is known as an enclave and it’s the largest enclave country out of the three.
Lesotho is also the only country in the world that lies entirely above 1,000 metres and it’s also the coldest nation in the whole of the African continent. So you should wrap up if you plan to visit in winter, (May-September) but regardless of your chosen travel attire; let’s dig into all of the wonderful places to visit in Lesotho, Southern Africa.
1. Visit Ha Kome Cave Dwellings
Nestled in the Berea District, close to the village of Mateka, the Ha Kome Cave Dwellings offer a unique glimpse into traditional Basotho living. These remarkable cave structures, carved directly into the sandstone cliffs, have been inhabited for almost two centuries.
As you explore the area, you’ll discover the caves’ fascinating architecture, marked by their earthy tones and organic shapes, blending seamlessly into the rugged mountainous landscape.
The experience is not just about viewing the dwellings from the outside; it’s a cultural immersion. The descendants of the original builders still inhabit these caves, maintaining their ancestral way of life.
Engaging with the locals provides insight into their customs and history, offering a deeply personal connection to Lesotho’s past and present. The Ha Kome Visitors Centre, located on-site, is an excellent resource for learning about the heritage of these unique highland settlements.
The visit to Ha Kome is more than just sightseeing; it’s an educational journey revealing the resilience and ingenuity of the Basotho people, living in harmony with their environment for generations.
Know before you go:
Location – Near Mateka Village in Berea District
Cost – Varies; it’s advisable to check for the most current pricing
Opening Hours – Generally accessible during daylight hours, but check locally for any specific visiting times
Time Needed – Typically, a visit can take around 1-2 hours
Getting There – Accessible by road; hiring a local guide or joining a tour from nearby towns like Teyateyaneng is recommended for the best experience
2. Check Out Dinosaur Prints
Lesotho presents a rare opportunity for travelers to step back in time, quite literally, through its ancient dinosaur footprints. Spread across various locations in the country, these prehistoric marks provide a tangible connection to the Earth’s distant past. The most notable site for these prints is in the northern region, near the town of Morija, where the Subeng Dinosaur Foot Print site is located.
This remarkable site features a sandstone slab adorned with the tracks of several dinosaur species. The diversity of footprints, ranging from three to five-toed impressions, suggests a bustling prehistoric ecosystem. The thrill of observing these footprints up close is akin to being an explorer uncovering lost worlds. The site offers a unique glimpse into the geological history and contributes significantly to understanding dinosaur behavior and evolution.
Visiting these ancient tracks is more than just a sightseeing expedition; it’s an educational experience, blending history, science, and adventure. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in paleontology or just looking for an extraordinary story to tell.
Know before you go:
Location – Near Morija, Northern Lesotho
Cost – May vary; guided tours are recommended and can include additional costs
Opening Hours – Typically accessible during daylight hours; guided tours may have specific schedules
Time Needed – Around 1-3 hours, depending on the extent of exploration and tour length
Getting There – Accessible by road; most visitors prefer guided tours from Morija or Roma for a comprehensive experience
3. Pony Trekking at Sehlabathebe National Park
Pony Trekking at Sehlabathebe National Park offers a unique and immersive experience into the heart of Lesotho’s stunning landscapes. This adventure is a fantastic way to explore the oldest nature reserve in Lesotho, set in the beautiful Maloti Mountains.
The park is known for its diverse flora, including the rare and endemic Sehlabathebe buttercup, and offers breathtaking scenery with rock formations and clear pools. The area is rich in wildlife, including antelopes and birds like the bearded vulture.
Riding the Basotho ponies, known for their agility and calm demeanor, you can navigate the rugged terrain with ease. These treks often take you through remote villages, allowing you to experience local cultures and traditions firsthand. It’s not just a journey through nature but also a cultural immersion into the life of the Basotho people.
Know before you go:
Location – Sehlabathebe National Park, Maloti Mountains in Qacha’s Nek District
Cost – Contact local tour operators for detailed pricing
Opening Hours – The park is accessible throughout the year, with wildflowers blooming between November and February
Time Needed – Treks can range from a few hours to multiple days, depending on the chosen route
Getting There – The park is reachable from Maseru via the A5 southeast to Qacha’s Nek, then northeast towards the park gate. It’s recommended to check current road conditions and consider guided tours for convenience and safety
4. Abseil Down Maletsunyane Falls
Abseiling down Maletsunyane Falls, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in Southern Africa is an exhilarating experience for adventure seekers. The falls, with a drop of about 192 meters, present a spectacular and thrilling abseiling opportunity. This activity not only offers an adrenaline rush but also provides breathtaking views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. It’s a unique way to experience one of Lesotho’s most iconic natural wonders.
Know before you go:
Location – Near Semonkong
Cost – Varies; check with local adventure tour operators
Opening Hours – Subject to weather conditions and operator schedules
Time Needed – Several hours, including preparation and the abseiling activity
Getting There – Accessible by road from Lesotho’s major towns; guided tours are available from Semonkong
5. See Lion Rock Mountain
Lion Rock Mountain, a prominent natural landmark in Lesotho, offers visitors stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. The mountain’s unique shape resembles a lion, making it a striking feature in the landscape. It’s a perfect spot for hiking and photography, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The site is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquillity of Lesotho.
Know before you go:
Location – Maseru, just outside of Lesotho’s capital
Cost – Free, but guided tours may have a fee
Opening Hours – Daylight hours for safety
Time Needed – A few hours to half a day, depending on the hiking route
Getting There – Best accessed through local guides who can direct you to the best viewpoints and trails
6. Buy a Local Hat at Basotho Hat
Visiting Basotho Hat is a cultural experience where you can purchase a traditional Basotho hat known as “Mokorotlo”. These hats, made from local materials, represent Lesotho’s rich cultural heritage. They are not only a fashion statement but also carry deep cultural significance.
Buying a hat here means taking a piece of Lesotho’s culture home with you. The shop may also offer other local crafts and souvenirs, making it a perfect stop for those looking to bring back a memorable token from their travels.
Know before you go:
Location – Found in major towns across Lesotho
Cost – Varies depending on the hat and craftsmanship
Opening Hours – Usual business hours, but it’s best to check locally
Time Needed – Usually a quick visit unless you engage with artisans
Getting There – Easily accessible in major towns and tourist areas in Lesotho
7. Explore Ts’ehlanyane National Park
The tongue-twister that is Ts’ehlanyane National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Nestled in the front range of the Maluti Mountains, it is one of only two national parks in Lesotho and part of the larger Maloti/Drakensberg Transfrontier Park.
This expansive park, covering over 5,600 hectares, offers rugged mountain terrain and one of the few remaining indigenous woodlands in Lesotho. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including horseback riding, exploring caves, and photography.
The park’s rich biodiversity includes over 220 flowering plant species and various mammalian species like the African wild cat and black-backed jackal. Its scenic beauty is accentuated by waterfalls and rivers, perfect for fishing and swimming.
Know before you go:
Location – In the Maluti Mountains, near the Holomo Pass
Cost – Depends on activities and accommodation
Opening Hours – Open year-round
Time Needed – A day to several days, depending on activities
Getting There – Accessed via a 32 km road from the main A1 route, southwest of Butha Buthe
8. Drive Sani Pass to The Highest Pub in Africa
The Sani Pass, a spectacular mountain road, is a must-do for thrill-seekers driving through Lesotho. This challenging route winds through the Drakensberg Mountains, offering stunning views and leading to the highest pub in Africa called Sani Mountain Lodge (definitely one for the bucket list!)
It connects Lesotho with South Africa and is known for its steep gradients and sharp turns, making it a thrilling drive. The pub at the top provides a unique spot to enjoy a meal with (quite literally due ti the high altitude) breathtaking views.
Know before you go:
Location – Connects Lesotho to South Africa through the Drakensberg Mountains
Cost – Toll fees may apply. The average price of a Small car hire in Lesotho is around $36 a day
Opening Hours – Daylight hours recommended for safety
Time Needed – Half a day to a full day
Getting There – Best navigated with a 4×4 vehicle; guided tours are recommended
9. Mountain Biking at Altitude
Lesotho offers some exceptional mountain biking trails, particularly in Ts’ehlanyane National Park. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy routes for beginners to challenging paths for experienced bikers.
The park’s diverse terrain, with its stunning mountain landscapes, provides an exhilarating biking experience. It’s an adventurous way to explore Lesotho’s natural beauty.
Know before you go:
Location – Trails available in Ts’ehlanyane National Park and other regions
Cost – Varies depending on bike rental and possible guide fees
Opening Hours – Best during daylight hours
Time Needed – Varies based on trail length and difficulty
Getting There – Access to trails may require transportation to the park or trailheads
10. Go Hiking in Semonkong
Hiking in Semonkong offers an immersive experience in the wild heart of Lesotho. The area is famed for the Maletsunyane Waterfall, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in the world.
Hikers can explore various trails that range from easy to challenging. The trails offer spectacular views of the gorge, waterfalls, and the traditional Basotho villages. The ‘Into the Smoke’ hike, leading to the bottom of the Maletsunyane Falls, is a remarkable journey that showcases the waterfall’s grandeur. The hikes also provide opportunities to swim in natural rock pools and observe the local flora and fauna.
Know before you go:
Location – Maseu District
Cost – Varies; guided tours may have additional costs
Opening Hours – Best during daylight hours
Time Needed – Ranges from 3 to 6 hours for day hikes
Getting There – Accessible by road from Maseru or other major towns in Lesotho
11. Visit Katse Dam
Katse Dam, located in the heart of Lesotho, is a marvel of modern engineering and a significant attraction. Completed in 1996, it is Africa’s second-largest double-curvature arch dam, part of the ambitious Lesotho Highlands Water Project. This dam, towering at 185 meters, impounds the Malibamat’so River, creating a vast and stunning reservoir set against the backdrop of the rugged mountains.
Visitors can explore the Katse Lodge area, which offers panoramic views of the dam and the surrounding highlands. Activities around the dam include boat cruises, giving a unique perspective of the massive structure and the serene waters. The dam’s visitor center provides insightful tours about its history and significance.
The region is also great for hiking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of Lesotho’s landscapes.
Know before you go:
Location – On the Malibamat’so River
Cost – Varies; guided tours may have additional costs
Opening Hours – Tours are typically available on weekdays and weekends
Time Needed – A few hours for the dam visit, longer for additional activities
Getting There – Accessible by road from major towns in Lesotho; Katse Lodge can be a good base for exploring the area
12. Visit Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village
Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village, situated near Maseru, is a profound portal into the rich heritage of the Basotho people. It stands on a sandstone plateau where King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho Nation, established a formidable fortress during the Lifaqane War.
Thaba Bosiu translates to “Mountain at Night,” believed to possess supernatural powers, growing taller at night to protect its inhabitants.
Visitors to the village can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, where traditional practices, attire, arts, and crafts are proudly showcased.
The village offers a unique blend of cultural performances, festivals, and educational experiences, allowing visitors to engage with locals who share their stories and traditions. The historical significance of Thaba Bosiu as the birthplace of the Basotho nation is palpable, with landmarks like Moshoeshoe’s grave and traditional huts enhancing the experience.
Know before you go:
Location – 24km outside Maseru
Cost – Standard rooms are around $65. For more detailed information, please visit Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village.
Opening Hours – Check with the village for current operating hours
Time Needed – A few hours to a full day, depending on activities
Getting There – Accessible by road from Maseru
13. Attend The Only Snow Festival in Africa (Afriski)
Does it snow in Africa? Hell yes, it does and it snows in Lesotho more than anywhere else in Africa… and they celebrate this fact by having one big festival – the only snow festival in the whole of the African continent, with the funky name of “Afriski!”
Afriski Mountain Resort located in the Maloti Mountains, this resort transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an array of snow-based activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Afriski also hosts winter sports events and music festivals, attracting visitors from around the world.
Know before you go:
Location – Maloti Mountains, Lesotho
Cost – Varies depending on the activity and accommodation.
Opening Hours – Seasonal; check the Afriski website for specific dates
Time Needed – A day to several days, depending on activities
Getting There – Accessible by road; 4×4 recommended in winter months
14. Explore Bokong and Bokong Nature Reserve
Bokong Nature Reserve, near the Katse Dam, is a spectacular destination in Lesotho known for its dramatic mountain scenery and rich biodiversity. The reserve is a haven for hiking and birdwatching, with the Lepaqoa Waterfall and various rare bird species being key attractions. The area is also known for its indigenous woodlands and unique alpine flora.
Know before you go:
Location – Near Katse Dam
Cost – Entrance fees may apply; check for current rates
Opening Hours – Generally during daylight hours; check for specific timings
Time Needed – Several hours to a full day, depending on activities
Getting There – Accessible by road; 4×4 vehicles recommended for some areas
15. Visit Liphofung
Liphofung, known as “the place of the eland,” (the spiral-horned beautiful animal) is a unique cultural and historical site in Lesotho.
It’s renowned for its rich archaeological heritage that dates back to the Late Stone Age. The site includes a significant cave, which is the smallest reserve managed by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority but holds immense historical value. This cave was once a shelter for the San people and later for King Moshoeshoe the Great. The Liphofung Cave offers insights into the early history of the Basotho people and their way of life.
Know before you go:
Location – Near Botha-Bothe and Oxbow
Cost – Contact for current pricing
Opening Hours – Typically during daylight hours
Time Needed – 1-2 hours
Getting There – Accessible by road from Maseru or Clarens
16. Discover Leribe (Hlotse)
Leribe, also known as Hlotse, is a vibrant town rich in culture and history, located in northern Lesotho. It is a gateway to various tourist attractions and offers a glimpse into the traditional Basotho lifestyle.
Leribe is known for its craft markets, where you can find beautiful textiles and other local crafts. The town also provides access to prehistoric sites and serves as a great starting point for exploring the surrounding mountainous landscapes.
Know before you go:
Location – Northern Lesotho
Cost – Varies based on activities
Opening Hours – Varies by location
Time Needed – A day or more
Getting There – Accessible by road from Maseru
17. Tour Butha-Buthe
Butha-Buthe is a town in northern Lesotho, known for its historical significance and beautiful natural surroundings. It offers access to various natural and historical sites, including the Liphofung Cave.
The town itself is an excellent representation of the Basotho culture and is a hub for exploring the northern part of the country and is a particular hiker’s paradise with its lush steep hills and curious locals.
Know before you go:
Location – Northern Lesotho
Cost – Varies based on activities
Opening Hours – Varies by location
Time Needed – A day or more
Getting There – Accessible by road from Maseru or other major cities in Lesotho
Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrilling experiences or a culture enthusiast eager to immerse yourself in unique traditions, the ‘Kingdom in the Sky’ has something special for everyone. Did we miss out on any special things to do in Lesotho?
