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Lesotho

Overview of Lesotho

Sani Pass, Lesotho
Photo credit: Vaiz Ha
The mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho is small and rounded in shape, enclosed by South Africa on all sides. Separated from its neighbour by the huge Drakensberg and Maluti ranges, it's situated on a plateau over 3,281 feet (1,000m) high and has peaks reaching summits of more than 10,000 feet (3,000m).

Sani Pass is a breathtaking entry-point into Lesotho from South Africa's Drakensberg National Park and acts as a the gateway to the Roof of Africa scenic route, linking the magnificent scenery of the two mountain ranges. Popularly described as the 'Kingdom in the Sky', the lofty highlands of Lesotho are characterised by majestic mountain scenery, crisp mountain air, and the simple serenity of the traditional lifestyles of its people.

Pony trekking is one of the finest ways to experience the Lesotho highlands, with time spent in remote Basotho villages scattered among the grassy hills. Here, waterfalls saturate the surrounding rocks with rainbow-coloured mist and crystal clear streams criss-cross the landscape. The region is also perfect for those who prefer to put their hiking skills to the test, with miles of solitary scenery to appreciate, an abundance of trout in the rivers and dams, and the assurance of a warm and friendly welcome in the rugged mountain hamlets. The central highlands are home to the highest waterfall in southern Africa, the Maletsunyane Falls near Semonkong. Meaning 'Place of Smoke', it thunders from a height of 624ft (190m) and is at its most spectacular during the summer rainy season.

The land descends from the top of the Maluti Mountains down to the western lowlands, which contain all major towns and around two thirds of the population. Maseru, the capital, is a fascinating city of contrasting modern and traditional lifestyles, where blanket-clad horsemen sidestep the traffic jams on their way to market, and woven handicrafts sit displayed on the busy pavements outside new glass buildings filled with hardworking office employees and officials. Time spent in Lesotho will allow visitors to observe an African country that has extraordinary appeal: a kingdom of rugged beauty and unchanging culture that remains pristine and largely unaffected by tourism.

map of Lesotho


Key Facts

Language:
Sesotho and English are the official languages, but Xhosa and Zulu are widely spoken.
Passport/Visa:

All foreign passengers to Lesotho must hold return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Visa-exempt visitors who wish to stay in Lesotho for longer than their allotted 14 days, should apply for extensions at the Lesotho Immigration Authorities within the initial 14-day period. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The Lesotho loti (LSL) is the official currency of Lesotho, and is divided into 100 lisente. It has the same value as the South African rand, which is accepted as legal currency. Banks and exchange bureaus are found in Maseru and in most main towns.

Most major hotels, shops, restaurants, and travel agencies accept credit cards, though it is best to check with credit and debit card companies as to their acceptance before leaving home. Local ATMs in Lesotho have the facility to accept international ATM cards but are unreliable.

Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. The three-prong, round pin South African plug is used.

Travel to Lesotho

Overview

Known as the Mountain Kingdom, Lesotho boasts some of the most scenic mountain peaks in Southern Africa, making it an ideal destination for travellers who love the outdoors, fresh air, and wide open spaces. The lush and beautiful landscape allows for many things to see and do in Lesotho. Sought-after activities include birdwatching and wildlife safaris, offered at the likes of Sehlabathebe National Park. It's a nature reserve made up of 6,500 hectares and positioned at an elevation of 7,874 feet (2,400m). This protected wilderness area is the ideal spot for hiking, pony-trekking, and scenic explorations. While game sightings are limited to antelope, the landscapes and natural wonders are more than enough to excite lovers of the outdoors.

Another tourist favourite in Lesotho is Thaba-Bosiu. This sandstone plateau is a national monument and considered the birthplace of the Basotho nation. It's worth a visit for its history and spectacular views. From Thaba-Bosiu, travellers can see the Qiloane pinnacle, which was the inspiration for Lesotho's celebrated hat, the mokorotlo. While there are water sports aplenty at the great Katse Dam in the summer months, skiing in the Maloti Mountains during the winter months is a big drawcard for tourists the world over. Skiing in Lesotho offers travellers a unique winter experience not usually found in Africa.

For the culturally inclined, other tourist attractions in Lesotho include a chance to delve into history at the Lesotho National Museum in Maseru and the Morija Museum and Archives, which offer collections on archaeology, ethnography, and geology. Visitors can also discover the Kome Cave Dwellings, now a National Heritage Site where the rich culture of Lesotho's people is contained. Rock art is also a popular find in Lesotho, as are the famed Dinosaur Footprints found at Morija, Subeng Stream, and Tsikoane, to name a few.

Climate in Lesotho

Weather conditions in Lesotho vary greatly depending on the altitude. Summer (October to April) is the hot, rainy season, with the hottest days in January and February, and the most rain falling between March and May and between October and November.

Days are sunny with electric afternoon thunderstorms, and temperatures range from around 86ºF (30°C) in the lowlands. Temperatures cool down as the altitude increases, averaging about 64°F (18°C) in the mountains. Snow falls mainly in winter from May to September, but can occur in the mountains at any time of year.

Winter can be bitterly cold, particularly in the highlands, but days are usually clear and sunny. Temperatures can fall to 20°F (-7°C) in the lowlands and 0°F (-18°C) in the highlands. At any time of year, the weather can change very rapidly in the highlands, from warm sunshine to mist, rain and freezing temperatures.

Health Notes when travelling to Lesotho

Lesotho's high altitude and crisp mountain air does not present many health problems for travellers, although the high elevation does make altitude sickness a possibility for recently arrived visitors. Everyone 12 years of age and older should get fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before visting; water should not be drunk unless it is boiled or filtered.

There is a lack of good medical facilities, and medical attention is often sought in neighbouring South Africa. Visitors should carry a personal supply of medicine as supplies are limited. Lesotho's Flying Doctor service provides emergency medical services to remote parts of the country. Medical insurance is essential and should include emergency air evacuation coverage, especially if visitors are planning to spend time in remote mountainous regions.

Safety Notes when travelling to Lesotho

Safety in Lesotho is not generally a serious issue but there has been an increase in opportunistic crime and gun-related crimes, due to a high unemployment rate in the cities. Most incidents occur in Maseru, but visitors should also be alert elsewhere to theft, car hijackings, and muggings. Visitors should avoid walking around with valuables or should keep them out of sight. It's best not to walk alone in isolated areas or in Maseru after dark; driving through rural areas after dark is also not recommended. Sporadic demonstrations are possible and should be avoided if possible.

Customs in Lesotho

Politeness is very much appreciated in Lesotho, and it is always best to ask before taking pictures of places or people. It is customary to ask permission from the local village Headman or Chief before camping, and to inform him if spending any time within his village. Homosexuality is illegal so visitors should be cautious and discreet.

Duty Free in Lesotho

Travellers to Lesotho do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 20 cigars, and 250g tobacco; 2 litres wine and 1 litre of alcohol; 250ml eau de toilette and 50ml perfume; other gifts to the value of LSL 5000. No liquor may be imported by South African nationals.

Doing Business in Lesotho

Business in Lesotho tends to follow usual business practices, meaning it's best to be punctual, exchange business cards, and show respect for hosts. However, foreigners should anticipate a generally relaxed atmosphere. Suits and ties are the norm, though a lightweight material is best. Business hours are usually from 8.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4.30pm Mondays to Fridays, and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.

Communication in Lesotho

The international dialling code for Lesotho is +266, and the outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Telephone and fax services are available in all main towns and at major hotels. Visitors can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones; WiFi is available in cafes, restaurants and hotels in cities.

Tipping in Lesotho

All service staff, including tour guides and game rangers, are customarily tipped between 10 and 15 percent, which they rely on to boost their low wages.

Passport/Visa Note

All foreign passengers to Lesotho must hold return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Visa-exempt visitors who wish to stay in Lesotho for longer than their allotted 14 days, should apply for extensions at the Lesotho Immigration Authorities within the initial 14-day period. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans:

US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Lesotho. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Canadians:

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date they expect to leave Lesotho. A tourist visa is not required for stays up to 30 days.

Entry requirements for UK nationals:

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for a minimum period of 90 days from the date of exit from Lesotho. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Australians:

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Lesotho. Tourists can visit for up to 14 days without a visa.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals:

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Lesotho. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders:

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Lesotho. A visa is required for stays longer than 14 days.

Entry requirements for South Africans:

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Lesotho. No visa is required for stays of less than three weeks.

Lesotho Embassies

In the United States:

Kingdom of Lesotho Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 797 5533.

In Canada:

Kingdom of Lesotho Consulate, Vancouver, Canada: +1 604 681 9887.

In the United Kingdom:

Kingdom of Lesotho High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7235 5686.

In Australia:

Kingdom of Lesotho Embassy, Tokyo, Japan (also responsible for Australia): +81 3 3584 7455.

In Ireland:

Kingdom of Lesotho Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 676 2233.

In New Zealand:

Kingdom of Lesotho Embassy, Beijing, China (also responsible for New Zealand): +86 10 6532 6843.

In South Africa:

Kingdom of Lesotho High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 460 7648.

Foreign Embassies in Lesotho

American Embassy

United States Embassy, Maseru: +266 2231 2666.

Canadian Embassy

Canadian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Lesotho): +27 12 422 3000.

British Embassy

British Honourary Consul, Maseru: +266 223 13929.

Australian Embassy

Australian High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Lesotho): +27 12 423 6000.

Irish Embassy

Irish Embassy, Maseru: +266 2231 4068.

New Zealand Embassy

New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Lesotho): + 27 12 435 9000.

South African Embassy

South African High Commission, Maseru: +266 2222 5800.

Travel Advisories

Health Information for Travelers to Lesotho

Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Vaccines and Medicines

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

 

  Find Out Why Protect Yourself

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

get_vaccinated hygiene

Most travelers

Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.

Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Lesotho, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Typhoid

You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Lesotho. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

get_vaccinated eat_drink

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Lesotho, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
  • People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
  • People who are taking long trips or moving to Lesotho
  • Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
get_vaccinated animals hygiene
Yellow Fever

There is no risk of yellow fever in Lesotho. The government of Lesotho requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.

For more information on recommendations and requirements, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Lesotho. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans.

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Most travelers

Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Hepatitis A

CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Lesotho, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Typhoid

You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Lesotho. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated animals hygiene
Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Lesotho, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
  • People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
  • People who are taking long trips or moving to Lesotho
  • Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Yellow Fever

There is no risk of yellow fever in Lesotho. The government of Lesotho requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.

For more information on recommendations and requirements, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Lesotho. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans.

Key
  • Get vaccinated
  • Eat and drink safely
  • Keep away from animals
  • Reduce your exposure to germs
  • Avoid sharing body fluids
  • Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment

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Stay Healthy and Safe

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Lesotho, so your behaviors are important.

 

Eat and drink safely

Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.

Eat
  • Food that is cooked and served hot
  • Hard-cooked eggs
  • Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
  • Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
  • Food served at room temperature
  • Food from street vendors
  • Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
  • Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
  • Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
  • Unpasteurized dairy products
  • ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
  • Bottled water that is sealed
  • Water that has been disinfected
  • Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Hot coffee or tea
  • Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
  • Tap or well water
  • Ice made with tap or well water
  • Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
  • Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine

Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.

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Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Lesotho. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?
  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
    • DEET
    • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
    • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
    • IR3535
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.

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Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Lesotho include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
    • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
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Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

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Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
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Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
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Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Lesotho’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

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Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Walking

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Lesotho may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Lesotho, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Lesotho.

  • Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
  • LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.
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Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave
  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
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Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Lesotho for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

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Travel Health Notices

There are no notices currently in effect for Lesotho.

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After Your Trip

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.

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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Currency

The Lesotho loti (LSL) is the official currency of Lesotho, and is divided into 100 lisente. It has the same value as the South African rand, which is accepted as legal currency. Banks and exchange bureaus are found in Maseru and in most main towns.

Most major hotels, shops, restaurants, and travel agencies accept credit cards, though it is best to check with credit and debit card companies as to their acceptance before leaving home. Local ATMs in Lesotho have the facility to accept international ATM cards but are unreliable.

Moshoeshoe International (MSU)
Moshoeshoe International Airport

Location: The airport is situated 12 miles (19km) south of Maseru.

map of Moshoeshoe International

Time: Local time is GMT +2.

Contacts: Tel: +266 2235 0777

Getting to the city: Taxis are available and hotels provide shuttle services.

Car rental: Car rental companies are present at the airport.

Airport Taxis:

Facilities: Facilities include a bank and bureau de change, bars and restaurants, left luggage facilities, a gift shop and newsagent, a travel agent, and a post office. There are also facilities for the disabled.

Parking: Short and long-term parking is available.

Departure Tax: LSL20.

Overview of the Attractions in Lesotho

Known as the Mountain Kingdom, Lesotho boasts some of the most scenic mountain peaks in Southern Africa, making it an ideal destination for travellers who love the outdoors, fresh air, and wide open spaces. The lush and beautiful landscape allows for many things to see and do in Lesotho. Sought-after activities include birdwatching and wildlife safaris, offered at the likes of Sehlabathebe National Park. It's a nature reserve made up of 6,500 hectares and positioned at an elevation of 7,874 feet (2,400m). This protected wilderness area is the ideal spot for hiking, pony-trekking, and scenic explorations. While game sightings are limited to antelope, the landscapes and natural wonders are more than enough to excite lovers of the outdoors.

Another tourist favourite in Lesotho is Thaba-Bosiu. This sandstone plateau is a national monument and considered the birthplace of the Basotho nation. It's worth a visit for its history and spectacular views. From Thaba-Bosiu, travellers can see the Qiloane pinnacle, which was the inspiration for Lesotho's celebrated hat, the mokorotlo. While there are water sports aplenty at the great Katse Dam in the summer months, skiing in the Maloti Mountains during the winter months is a big drawcard for tourists the world over. Skiing in Lesotho offers travellers a unique winter experience not usually found in Africa.

For the culturally inclined, other tourist attractions in Lesotho include a chance to delve into history at the Lesotho National Museum in Maseru and the Morija Museum and Archives, which offer collections on archaeology, ethnography, and geology. Visitors can also discover the Kome Cave Dwellings, now a National Heritage Site where the rich culture of Lesotho's people is contained. Rock art is also a popular find in Lesotho, as are the famed Dinosaur Footprints found at Morija, Subeng Stream, and Tsikoane, to name a few.

Public Holidays in Lesotho

 

News about Lesotho

Skiing in Africa? Tourists hit Lesotho slopes despite COVID-19 woes
Suggest a holiday in Africa and most people picture baking hot sun, palm-fringed beaches or herds of wildebeest galloping across the savannah. Few think of skiing
EuroNews
Tuesday August 24, 2021
Seven Tips to Help You Plan your Next 'Bleisure' Holiday
AVANI Hotels AND Resorts in Namibia, Lesotho, Zambia, Mozambique and Botswana, offer some solid advice for business executives thinking of extending their trip into a family event
IOL Travel
Friday February 09, 2018
17 things you didn't know about Lesotho, to mark its independence day
Yes, it’s happy birthday to Lesotho, which reaches a half-century of independence today, having shrugged off Britain’s colonial overcoat on October 4 1966