bEST THINGS TO DO IN LESOTHO: AN ADVENTURE GUIDE
The hidden gem of Southern Africa: things to do in Lesotho
Lesotho, also known as the “Kingdom in the Sky,” is one of the few monarchies left in the continent of Africa. A landlocked country within South Africa, it’s a destination that most people skip whenever they’re in the region. This small yet breathtaking country offers a wealth of experiences for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and cultural explorers alike. From cascading waterfalls to ancient caves, Lesotho is a gem waiting to be discovered.
Should I use a guide in Lesotho?
This is one of those countries where most people don’t do it justice and just go for a day trip. They’ll go to Sani Pass, visit the highest pub in the world, then go back to South Africa. If you’re into nature, think about this place as the Iceland of Southern Africa. But it’s nowhere near as touristy, and a guide definitely comes in handy, since there isn’t much information online about the country.
I would highly recommend Keketso, the guide we hired. Not only is he a local, but his love and knowledge of the country shines through. Most guides you’ll find online are actually from South Africa. One of the best ways to support local tourism is to hire and use local businesses and services whenever possible.
In this adventure guide, I’ll explore some of the best things to do in Lesotho, and how you can make the most of this country in a few days.
Maletsunyane Falls
One of the most iconic sights in Lesotho, Maletsunyane Falls, is a breathtaking 192-meter (630-foot) waterfall near the town of Semonkong. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in Africa and is a must-see for any visitor. If you’re up for some adrenaline, you can also abseil down the waterfall! The experience of a lifetime. This has to be booked or arranged in advance.
Sani Pass
Sani Pass is a legendary mountain pass that connects Lesotho to South Africa. Known as one of the most challenging 4×4 routes in Southern Africa. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Drakensberg Mountains.
While it’s possible to tackle Sani Pass on your own, it’s highly recommended to go with a guide who knows the terrain well. Do not take roads for granted in this part of the world! You’l also probably stop at the pub with the highest elevation in Africa, which is part of the Sani Mountain Lodge. You can easily just stop here for drinks – no need to stay overnight!
Sehlabathebe National Park
For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Sehlabathebe National Park is the perfect destination. This remote and lesser-known park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its unique sandstone formations, crystal-clear rivers, and rich biodiversity. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring ancient rock art.
Kome Caves
Step back in time with a visit to the Kome Caves, a historical site where Basotho people have lived in sandstone caves for centuries. These caves, which are still inhabited, offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional Basotho culture and history.
Although this isn’t common, you can actually arrange an overnight stay in the Kome Caves with the family that currently lives there. This is usually only possible with a local guide, since there is no way to reach the family except through locals.
Katse Dam
Katse Dam, one of the largest dams in Africa, is a marvel of modern engineering. This massive structure not only provides water and electricity to Lesotho and South Africa but also creates a stunning artificial lake surrounded by mountains.
Maliba Lodge
For those seeking a touch of luxury, Maliba Lodge is the perfect retreat. It is the only 5* hotel in the whole country and it’s located in the Ts’ehlanyane National Park. While the lodge itself is a destination, the surrounding area offers a good amount of trails that are ideal for exploring the area.
Qiloane Falls
Qiloane Falls, though lesser-known than Maletsunyane Falls, is a hidden treasure worth seeking out. Located in a secluded area, this waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a serene atmosphere for those who want to escape the beaten path.
Reaching Qiloane Falls can be challenging, as it’s off the main tourist routes, but with a local guide this is possible. This was my favorite hike since it allowed us to walk through local villages and farms that I would not have been able to find on my own.
Afriski: Winter Fun in Africa
Yes, you read that right—skiing in Africa! Afriski is one of the few ski resorts on the continent, offering winter sports enthusiasts a chance to hit the slopes in the Maloti Mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Afriski has something for everyone, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and mountain biking in the summer months.
I don’t really know how to ski but there are locals that you can hire for an hourly rate that you can hire for lessons, and getting equipment is affordable compared to North American and European skiing prices. There is a restaurant on site serving good food which is not overly expensive. I do recommend asking your guide or simply checking online beforehand to see if there are any events happening then. The entry ticket prices increase drastically if there’s an event on the day you’re visiting.
Hey there, and welcome to Go Global with Sibu! I’m a global citizen that has been living and traveling around the world since 2005 – all through budget travel, scholarships, study/work and living abroad opportunities. I share everything I’ve learned over the years here – to prove to you that you don’t need money or privilege to enjoy everything that this world has to offer.
Why I’d recommend Keketso
I’m personally more of a solo traveler (unless I’m having fun with one of our tours!) this was one of those destinations where I was recommended to use a guide, and I am glad I listened. My experience would have been minimal and very superficial if it hadn’t been for Keketso. This is why I’m going out of my way to recommend him.
While Lesotho is a relatively small country, its rugged terrain, remote locations, and hidden gems make it a place where a guide is priceless. Unfortunately, most of the hiking trails are not clearly marked which also makes it difficult to navigate the country on your own. Even if you’re visiting from South Africa, I think that you’d have an overall better experience if you have a local taking care of you and showing you the best sites the country has to offer.
If you’re on a tight budget, he’ll arrange local taxis and even hitchhike with you. If you have your own vehicle or need one with a driver, he’ll arrange that, too. He knows the country like the back of his hand, has experience working with travelers from all over the world, and can easily adapt to your preferences.
Fly in, or visit from Durban, Bloemfontein or Johannesburg
There are plenty of ways to get into Lesotho, whether it’s flying in, with your own vehicle or rental, or simply taking a bus into the country like we did. If you need any help with logistics, you know who to contact.
This was part of my 3+ months going from southern to East Africa, and the only country where I used a guide. By the way, this is one of the countries that inspired Wakanda! If you want to read more about the logistics behind my trip, and how I did it all with public transportation, make sure to check out my blog article here. Or have a look at my other Africa articles or YouTube videos. Hope you enjoy Lesotho as much as I did!