Photo: USAID Africa Bureau, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Southern Africa · Country guide

Lesotho

The “Kingdom in the Sky”, with pony treks, mountain passes and even skiing.

Flag of Lesotho
Capital
Maseru
Region
Southern Africa
Languages
Sesotho and English
Currency
Lesotho loti (South African rand also accepted)
Best time to visit
Mar to May, Sep to Nov

Lesotho is a mountain kingdom completely surrounded by South Africa. Drive the Sani Pass, ride Basotho ponies between villages, see the Maletsunyane Falls drop almost 200 metres, and in winter, ski.

Did you know? Lesotho is the only independent country in the world that lies entirely above 1,000 metres.

Known for

  • Pony trekking
  • Sani Pass
  • Maletsunyane Falls
  • Skiing at Afriski

Did you know?

Lesotho is the only independent country in the world that lies entirely above 1,000 metres.

Before you go

  • Visas: rules depend on your passport and change often. Check Lesotho’s official immigration website and see our visa guide.
  • Health: see a travel clinic about vaccines and malaria. Read our health guide.
  • Safety: read your government’s current travel advice for Lesotho.

Plan your trip

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Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Lesotho?

Maseru.

What currency does Lesotho use?

Lesotho loti (South African rand also accepted).

What languages are spoken in Lesotho?

Sesotho and English.

When is the best time to visit Lesotho?

Mar to May, Sep to Nov.

Have you been to Lesotho?

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