Joanna James
Nestled within the highlands of Southern Africa, Lesotho, the "Kingdom in the Sky," offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes, adrenaline-fueled activities, and rich cultural heritage. Defined by its mountainous terrain, high-altitude villages, and deep-rooted traditions, here are some of its most extraordinary activities that await visitors.
One of the best things to do in Lesotho is to explore the dramatic landscapes on horseback, just as the Basotho people have done for centuries. The Basotho pony, a sturdy and sure-footed breed, is perfectly adapted to the rugged mountain trails. Riding through the Maloti Mountains, visitors can access remote villages, cross rivers, and navigate steep passes with breathtaking views. Guided horseback treks range from a few hours to multi-day journeys, offering an authentic and immersive way to explore Lesotho’s pristine wilderness. You can even book a pony trekking excursion through your hotel, like the Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino. The Sehlabathebe National Park and Malealea region are among the best areas for such excursions, providing unparalleled scenery and interactions with local communities.
For a glimpse into Lesotho’s rich cultural and historical past, the Ha Kome Cave Dwellings offer an unforgettable experience. These ancient cave homes, carved into the soft sandstone cliffs, have been inhabited by the same Basotho families for generations. Originally built as a place of refuge in the early 19th century during tribal wars, the dwellings are still occupied today, giving visitors a rare opportunity to engage with a living piece of history. The site is surrounded by rolling grasslands and stunning rock formations, adding to the unique charm of this cultural landmark.
Towering at 192 metres, Maletsunyane Falls is one of Africa’s tallest single-drop waterfalls. Located near Semonkong, this natural wonder provides the backdrop for an adrenaline-pumping abseiling experience. Adventurers can descend the towering cliff face next to the roaring cascade, making it one of the highest commercial abseils in the world. For those who prefer a less extreme experience, the waterfall’s surroundings offer scenic hiking trails, picnic spots, and the chance to witness the stunning mist that often forms at its base, forming a mystical atmosphere.
Sani Pass, the gateway between Lesotho and South Africa, is one of the most thrilling mountain passes in the world. This steep and rugged road climbs over 2,800 metres above sea level, offering breathtaking views of winding roads, towering cliffs, and deep valleys. The journey is an adventure in itself, with sharp switchbacks and dramatic elevation changes that test even the most skilled drivers. A 4x4 vehicle is required, but for those who prefer a guided experience, local tour operators provide expert-led excursions. At the top of the pass, visitors can enjoy a drink at the highest pub in Africa, a perfect way to celebrate conquering this legendary mountain route.
Lesotho is home to some of the best-preserved dinosaur footprints in the world, making it a must-visit destination for history and palaeontology enthusiasts. In Quthing and Morija, visitors can marvel at fossilised footprints left behind over 200 million years ago. These ancient traces, imprinted on rock surfaces, provide a glimpse into the prehistoric world when dinosaurs roamed this high-altitude region. The footprints are remarkably well-preserved and easily accessible, offering a fascinating and unique experience unlike anywhere else in Africa.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
