The sparsely populated, rugged and incredibly scenic Kingdom of Lesotho is officially the highest country in the world (it has the highest low point of 1,388m/4,554ft). This is the place for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and 4x4 driving on and off the beaten track. Whatever your interests, the warm Basotho people will make your stay an unforgettable one.
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Rates
(USD)
- $57 to $92 pp/day
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Best Time To Go
- January to December
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High Season
- December to January and July to August
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Size
- 30,355km² / 11,720mi²
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Pros & Cons
- Very scenic mountainous country
- Great for hiking, horseback riding, 4x4 driving and mountain biking
- Adventurous off-the-beaten-track destination
- A chance to conquer southern Africa’s highest peak (Thabana Ntlenyana)
- Traditional cultures
- Limited facilities and few lodges
- Many roads are difficult to drive and require 4x4
- Not much wildlife
Wildlife
Lesotho is not a wildlife destination; none of the typical big safari animals are present. The national parks and nature reserves are home to several species of antelope, such as eland, grey rhebok and klipspringer. You might be lucky and see a black-backed jackal trotting across the grassy slopes. Chacma baboons and rock hyrax are common throughout, but the rare ice rat, a Drakensberg endemic, sticks to the highest altitudes.
More about the wildlife
Weather & Climate
Lesotho’s high altitude makes for a temperate climate. April to September is generally dry and cold. October to March is the Wet season; the weather is mostly lovely, but afternoon rainfall can be expected. Keep in mind that at any time of the year, the weather is very changeable, so never head out into the mountains without warm rainproof clothing.
More about the weather and climate
Best Time to Visit
Lesotho can be visited at any time. Weather conditions are most pleasant from October to March (the southern hemisphere’s summer). However, be prepared for some rain to interrupt otherwise bright sunshine. The dry months (April to September) are cold and nights can be freezing. The spectacular mountain scenery is at its best from mid to late summer (December to April).
More about the best time to visit
Premier Parks & Reserves
- Ts'ehlanyane NP - Hiking, pony trekking
- Sehlabathebe NP - Hiking, pony trekking
- All 3 Lesotho Parks & Reserves