Guide to Lesotho - the heavenly kingdom of Africa

This is the only country in the world where the entire territory is located at an altitude of more than 1000 meters above sea level. Lesotho is a place where culture and tradition play a vital role in people's lives. Let's dive into this unique kingdom, explore its cultural features, natural attractions and find out how to make the most of your time in this amazing country.

Lesotho is a small but proud kingdom, completely surrounded by South African territory. It has a population of about 2 million people, most of whom are Basotho people who speak the Sesotho language. The capital of the country is Maseru, it is the largest city and the main center of economic and political life in Lesotho.

Lesotho has a rich history that begins long before the colonial period. In the 19th century, King Moshoeshoe I united the various tribes and founded the state of Lesotho, which managed to maintain its independence despite pressure from its larger neighbors. Today Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy, and the descendants of Moshoeshoe I still play an important role in governing the country.

Lesotho culture is imbued with Basotho traditions. One of the most famous cultural symbols is the moekho, a traditional blanket worn by both men and women. These blankets don't just provide protection from the cold, they are also a status symbol and an important part of Basotho identity. Each pattern and color has its own meaning and conveys certain information about the owner.

Horse breeding is an important element of culture. Horses in Lesotho are not only used for transportation in the mountains, but are also a part of national pride. The annual horse races and parades attract large numbers of spectators and participants, showcasing the richness of horsemanship traditions and skills.

Music and dance play a central role in the cultural life of Lesotho. Mokhibo dance is a traditional Basotho dance performed by women, accompanied by singing and drums. Sesotho music often reflects life's challenges and joys, and many songs talk about love, nature and historical events.

Lesotho is a real paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Drakensberg and Malange mountains offer excellent trekking and mountaineering opportunities. One of the most popular routes is climbing to the top of Thabana Ntlenyana, the highest point in South Africa, which is located at an altitude of 3482 meters.

For those For those who prefer water sports, the Orange River is an excellent place for rafting. In winter, you can even go skiing in Lesotho at Afriski Resort, one of the few places on the continent where this is possible.

Lesotho, despite its small size, offers many unique places to visit. These attractions reveal both the natural and cultural wealth of the country.

1. Sani Pass

Sani Pass is one of the most spectacular mountain passes in Africa. The road leading through the pass connects Lesotho to South Africa and passes through steep slopes and picturesque mountain scenery. At the top of the pass, at an altitude of 2876 meters, is the famous Sani Mountain Lodge, often called the highest pub in Africa. This is a great place to enjoy the view and try local beer.

2. Lets'eng-la-Terae

Lets'eng-la-Terae is the highest lake in southern Africa, located at an altitude of 3250 meters above sea level. The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains and offers excellent trekking and photography opportunities. It is also a place where you can see many rare bird species and enjoy solitude among nature.

3. Maletsunyane Falls

Maletsunyane is one of the highest waterfalls in southern Africa, falling from a height of about 192 meters. The waterfall is located near the town of Semonkong and is a popular destination for extreme sports such as canyoning and base jumping. Here you can also make one of the longest abseils in the world - rappelling along a waterfall.

4. Semonkong

The town of Semonkong itself, which means “place of smoke” in Sesotho, is known for its traditional mud houses and picturesque landscapes. This is an excellent base camp for explorers planning to visit Maletsunyane Falls. In the city you can also see traditional Basotho life and buy unique handmade souvenirs.

5. Ts'ehlanyane National Park

Ts'ehlanyane National Park is one of Lesotho's largest national parks, known for its lush forests, crystal clear rivers and diverse wildlife. The park is located in a mountainous area and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching and studying flora and fauna. This is one of the best places to experience Lesotho's natural diversity.

6. Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village

Thaba Bosiu is not only a historical fortress, but also a cultural village where visitors can experience the traditional Basotho way of life. Here you can see reconstructions of traditional houses, learn about ancient crafts and rituals, and visit the tombs of the kings of Lesotho. This place represents a symbol of national pride and history of Lesotho.

7. Drakensberg Mountains

Although most of the Drakensberg Mountains are in South Africa, the northern part of the range runs through Lesotho, offering incredible views and excellent trekking routes. It boasts some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in Africa, including dramatic cliffs, mountain rivers and high plateaus.

8. National Museum of Lesotho

If you want to delve into the history and culture of Lesotho, be sure to visit the National Museum of Lesotho in Maseru. There are exhibits here that tell the story of the life of the Basotho people, from prehistoric times to the present. The museum also displays collections of traditional costumes, weapons, crafts and arts.

Lesotho cuisine is simple but nutritious. The main products are corn, sorghum and beans. One of the traditional dishes is pap, a corn porridge served with meat or vegetables. Also worth trying is morogo, a dish of wild green plants cooked with onions and garlic. The national drink is joala, a traditional beer made from fermented sorghum.

• Climate: Lesotho has a mountainous climate with cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures can drop below freezing in winter, especially in the mountains, so warm clothing is a must.
• Transportation: In Lesotho, roads can be challenging, especially in rural areas. It is recommended to rent an SUV to be able to reach remote locations.
• Safety: Lesotho is a relatively safe country for tourists, but as with any place, it is important to follow basic safety rules.
• Language: English is one of the official languages, so most people in tourist areas speak it. However, learning a few phrases in Sesotho will be very well received.

Travel to Lesotho is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a culture and tradition that has remained intact for centuries. This is a country where mountains and valleys tell their stories and people proudly preserve their heritage. When you visit Lesotho, you will not only enjoy the breathtaking scenery, but also feel part of this unique kingdom.