Lesotho

Lesotho – adventure  awaits in the Kingdom in the Sky

The magical mountain kingdom of Lesotho is one of Africa’s most intriguing and rewarding off-the-beaten-track gems. A land of intoxicating heights and exciting extremes, it is set entirely above 1,388 meters, the highest low point of any country in the world, while the 3,482-meter summit of Thabana Ntlenyana stands as Africa’s loftiest peak south of Kilimanjaro.

Lesotho Nature

About Lesotho

Uniformly mountainous, Lesotho is known for its breathtaking highland vistas. Golden sandstone cliffs, towering basaltic peaks and bizarre rock sculptures overlook undulating afroalpine meadows swathed in clumped grass, tussocked heather and colorful spring wildflowers. Spectacular waterfalls plunge into gaping canyons snaked through by crystal-clear rivers. From Spring through to Autumn, days are bathed in sunshine and ideal for hiking and pony trekking, but the midwinter months of June to August often bring heavy snowfalls and sub-zero temperatures that transform the waterfalls into beautiful icy sculptures.

Adventure and long ago

The Three Bushmen, Sehlabathebe National Park Lesotho, the mountains of Lesotho are a thrilling adventure playground for hikers, horse-riders, 4×4 enthusiasts and other outdoor lovers. For adrenaline junkies, activities include skiing, mountain biking, canoeing and the world’s highest commercial abseil. Slightly more sedately, there is excellent fly-fishing for trout in the highland streams, while birdwatchers and botanists can seek out a variety of specialized species whose range is limited to the high mountains of Lesotho and South Africa. Archaeological and historic highlights include dinosaur footprints dating back more than 200 million years, atmospheric rock overhangs adorned with mysterious centuries-old rock art, and a host of 19th-century landmarks associated with King Moshoeshoe I and various early missionaries.

Lesotho Culture

Women dancing in initiation ceremony, Lesotho Peaceful and culturally homogamous, Lesotho is home to the Basotho people, whose hereditary monarchy was established by King Moshoeshoe I in the early 19th century. It is predominantly rural, with an agricultural economy, very little industry, and the freshest of fresh mountain air. Blanketed Sotho shepherds roam the countryside on foot or horseback, accompanied by flocks of sheep and Marino goats whose coats are used to produce the wool and mohair handicrafts for which Lesotho is famed. Traditional villages of stone-and-thatch huts host initiation ceremonies complete with dancing and ululating women, while elders in traditional thatched hats parade past on horseback. In Lesotho, such ancient traditions remain part of a living 21st-century culture that both enthrall and welcomes visitors.

Katse Lodge

Things to do

• Semonkong
• Sani Top
• Ha Kome cave dwellings
• Skiing & snow boarding
• Horse riding & pony trekking
• Morija & Matsieng

Accommodation

• Avani Lesotho hotel & casino
• Mmelesi Lodge
• Foothills Guesthouse (city center)
• Avani Maseru hotel
• Katse Lodge
• Sani mountain lodge
• Phomolo Guesthouse (near city – 9km)
• Morija Guesthouse (45 km from Maseru)

Typical Itinerary

Lesotho is normally entered from South Africa by road over the Sani pass but you can use the Moshoeshoe International airport. Three to five days is quite comfortable to see Lesotho. It is the time of the year that is important when visiting the kingdom of the mountains so, cycling, horse riding, four by four vehicles and obviously, skiing or just walking. Then this is a beautiful kingdom to visit.

We at Catz will prepare your itinerary for you according to your budget and preferences. The variety of travel and things to do as well as the season, determines your adventure in Lesotho.

Link your tour with the Drakensberg in South Africa

Lesotho borders with the Drakensberg and this is an opportunity to see another country when visiting South Africa. The Drakensberg and even the Northern Natal battlefields or wildlife reserves in KwaZulu are close enough to make this a fascinating experience.