The landlocked nation of Lesotho lives up to its name as a “Kingdom in the Sky.” This tiny country is surrounded by South Africa, and South Africans are lucky to be near this charming destination.Lesotho is a place of valleys, mountains, and rivers. It is located 1,388 meters above sea level, making it “the highest low point of any country.” It’s the perfect destination for hikers, skiers, and outdoorsmen who want to try a different kind of Africa. Lesotho is one humble kingdom eager to welcome tourists who want to be with nature and experience a vibrant culture.
10 Maseru
The name of the capital Maseru pertains to the red sandstones prevalent in the area. Visitors to this humble city will be welcomed by sandstone buildings like the cathedral, the Anglican church, the former house of the resident commissioner, and the area where the Alliance Française is located. One of its prominent landmarks is the Mokorotlo, a building shaped like a traditional hat. Other points of interest include the massive Mohale Dam, the former capital Thaba Bosiu, the rock art of Ha Baroana, and the handicraft hotspot of Teyateyaneng. In Maseru, dullness is zero.
9 Katse Botanical Gardens
At an altitude of 2,229 meters, Katse Botanical Gardens is dubbed the highest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. It started as a place for rescued plants but now serves as home to many species, particularly traditional medicinal plants of the country. Botany lovers will love exploring this oasis that features a seed bank, spiral aloes, indigenous flowers, and a thriving greenhouse. It also has a view deck where tourists can take in the sights of Katse Dam. It’s a blooming place, indeed.
8 Afriski
Afriski is among the few ski resorts in Africa, and it aims to fill the adrenaline cup of skiers who want to have thrilling days with snow. This luxury resort in the Drakensberg-Maluti Mountains is the perfect playground for a winter wonderland. Those visiting in summer are in for a treat, as well, because when the snow says goodbye, the mountain reveals its trails for cyclists, motorbikers, runners, abseilers, and hikers. Whatever the season, Lesotho and its only ski resort are ready to take in adventurers.
7 Ts'ehlanyane National Park
Ts'ehlanyane National Park is so accessible for a place so lush and rugged. At an altitude of 2000 meters to 3000 meters, this refuge is an oasis that might as well be heaven. It has the country’s remaining indigenous forest, making it a paradise for wildlife. Hikers will enjoy conquering its trails as they enjoy the views of vistas, waterfalls, and flower fields. The same goes for horseback riders, birders, and wildlife watchers who want to spend their day with Mother Nature.
6 Sehlabathebe National Park
Lesotho’s Sehlabathebe National Park and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg National Park in South Africa form the World Heritage Site of Maloti-Drakensberg Park. UNESCO praised the area for its “exceptional natural beauty,” something tourists will see once they arrive in this outdoorsman’s playground. Sehlabathebe is home to grasslands, waterfalls, pools, and cliffs teeming with wildlife. Its most popular resident is the grey rhebok, and wildflowers are not to be overlooked too. This Lesotho destination is a paradise for critters and weary travelers.
5 Bokong Nature Reserve
If tourists can’t get enough of Lesotho’s lushness, they should head to Bokong Nature Reserve, a small yet stunning destination. It’s a hiker’s paradise because its terrain is easier to explore, plus it has picture-perfect spots. Tourists should imagine this: as they trek through the valleys, the river breeze will guide them to the vistas, where they can take in all the sights and sounds of this Basotho refuge. They might even be accompanied by grey rheboks along the way.
4 Ha Kome Cave Houses
Lesotho is home to unique cave houses that are still used by families of those who created the dwellings in the 1820s to 1830s. The cave houses started as a refuge for those escaping turmoil. The descendants of the original settlers remained under the rock overhang, and they welcome tourists who want to learn about their history and check the vibe of a cave dwelling. Traveling is all about having new experiences, and in the cave houses of Ha Kome, tourists might even gain new friends.
3 Qacha's Nek Snake Park
Another unique attraction in Lesotho is Qacha's Nek Snake Park, the only attraction of its kind in the country. It is open daily, and tourists can mingle with the herpetologist, who will share information about the crawlers. Aside from spitting cobras, anacondas, and puff adders, the park owner also keeps bees. There’s also a cave in the area where a former chief lived. If tourists want a unique experience, they are recommended to have a tour at night. This destination is satisfying.
2 Museums And Other Historical Sites
Those who want to travel back in time should visit Lesotho’s museums, cultural spots, and historical sites. In the village of Matsieng, there's a museum that features royal items, while the one in the town of Morija is teeming with scientific artifacts. The nearby Maeder House Gallery has artworks, and the Masitise Cave House Museum in Quthing exhibits local culture and history. There's a statue of a king in the Cultural Village of Thaba-Bosiu, while Liphofung Cave Cultural & Historical Site is proud of its rock art. The list goes on because, in Lesotho, a learning experience is always within grasp.
1 Dinosaur Footprints
One of the largest dinosaur footprints was discovered in Lesotho, and tourists can check that out. There are dinosaur footprints in Morija and Quthing, but some of the most prominent tracks are found near Subeng River and Tsikoane Village. Those by the river are believed to be from three dinosaur species, while the ones in the village are visible on rock ceilings. Lesotho has many more sites of fossilized dinosaur prints, an enticing prospect for amateur paleontologists. Stepping back in time has never been this good.