Joanna James
Tucked away in Southern Africa like a well-kept secret, Lesotho is the kind of place that makes you question why you are ever bothered with beach vacations. This mountain kingdom—yes, an actual kingdom—sits entirely above 1,000 metres, meaning even the lowest points are higher than your average skyscraper. If you’re after breathtaking landscapes (both visually and literally, thanks to the altitude) and a dose of culture, you’ve found your next great escape.
Lesotho isn’t just mountainous—it’s ridiculously mountainous. Forget rolling hills; this place looks like Mother Nature flexing her artistic skills. The Maloti and Drakensberg Mountains stretch across the land, creating deep gorges, rocky plateaus, and dramatic cliffs that seem untouched by time. Sehlabathebe National Park, a UNESCO-listed wonder, is a treasure trove of alien-like rock formations, crystal-clear rivers, and rare alpine flowers that look like they belong in a fairy tale. And if road-tripping is your thing, buckle up for the Sani Pass—a thrilling, stomach-churning drive with switchbacks that will either make you feel alive or question your life choices. At the top? The highest pub in Africa. Because after that drive, you’ll need a drink.
Hiking in Lesotho isn’t just a walk in the park—it’s an epic journey through time, nature, and your own endurance levels. Trails wind through misty peaks, remote villages, and landscapes so untouched that you’ll feel like an explorer from another era. The ultimate flex? Climbing Thabana Ntlenyana, Southern Africa’s highest peak at 3,482 metres. Sure, your legs will hate you, but the panoramic views will make up for it. If you prefer something more manageable (aka “I’d like to breathe while I hike”), Ts’ehlanyane National Park offers lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and the kind of peaceful solitude that city dwellers dream about. The best part? No crowds. Unlike the overrun trails of Kilimanjaro or Table Mountain, Lesotho’s mountains are gloriously quiet. Just you, the wind, and maybe a friendly Basotho shepherd wondering why you’re sweating so much.
Forget fancy safari jeeps—real adventurers explore Lesotho on horseback. The Basotho pony is a small but tough-as-nails breed, perfectly suited to the rugged terrain. These ponies have been the go-to transport here for centuries, and riding one through the mountains makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another era. The best way to do it? A pony trek through the highlands near Malealea Lodge or Maletsunyane Falls. You’ll cross rivers, climb hills, and maybe even stop at a local village for a chat (or a well-earned break). It’s like the Wild West, but with more dramatic scenery and fewer cowboys. Look, even if you're not all that great an equestrian, you can still enjoy a fun pony trekking evening if you're staying at one of the luxurious hotels in Lesotho, such as the famous Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino.
Lesotho isn’t one for subtlety, and Maletsunyane Falls is proof. At 192 metres, this thundering single-drop waterfall doesn’t just impress—it demands your attention. The mist rises from the gorge, the cliffs stand tall, and you just stand there, wondering how nature pulled this off. But wait—there’s more. Lesotho also holds a world record here. You see, for some people, looking at a massive waterfall isn’t enough. They abseil down it. That’s right—the world’s longest commercial abseil (204 metres) happens right next to this beast of a waterfall. If hanging off a cliff next to crashing water sounds like your kind of fun, congratulations—you are braver than most of us. For the rest of us? The viewpoints are spectacular, and the photo ops are endless.
In Lesotho, culture isn’t some staged performance for visitors—it’s alive, thriving, and woven into daily life. The Basotho people are known for their warmth, resilience, and signature Basotho blankets (which, by the way, look incredible in photos). Want a real cultural experience? Join a local for a home-cooked meal, or spend a day learning the ways of the mountain people. Whether it’s weaving, herding cattle, or cooking up a pot of papa (a maize-based dish), every interaction feels real, raw, and genuinely welcoming. For a deep dive into the arts, the Morija Arts & Cultural Festival is a must. Expect hypnotic drum beats, powerful dances, and intricate craftsmanship that showcase Lesotho’s artistic soul. Unlike the mass-produced souvenirs you find in some touristy spots, what you see here is the real deal—handmade, meaningful, and steeped in tradition.
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.
