Africa
Lesotho
A mountain kingdom completely inside South Africa: pony treks, high plateaus, snow and rural villages. Excellent for hiking and slow travel, with little nightlife and low-income poverty.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa67 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyLSLUS$1 ≈ M16.66Details
- Price level34%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English3/5Common in tourist areas
- PlugsType M220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency123Police 123 · Ambulance 121 · Fire 122
- Tap waterFilter or boilMaseru tap water is treated but treat or filter it; stream water in the mountains needs purifying.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalMale same-sex acts were decriminalised in 2012.Details
- DrivingOn the leftForeign licences in English are accepted; an IDP is advised. Mountain roads are steep, and some passes need a 4x4.
Where to go in Lesotho
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MaseruCapital city | 3/5 | $720–1,200 | Mar–Apr, Sep–Nov | 79/100 |
When to visit Lesotho
September-November and March-May are mild for hiking. Winter (June-August) brings snow and freezing nights; summer is wet with afternoon storms.
Good to know
Entry
- Many nationalities enter visa-free for 14-30 days; check eligibility, as some need a visa from an embassy.
- Entry is usually via South Africa, by land at Maseru Bridge, Ficksburg or Qacha's Nek, or flights to Moshoeshoe I airport.
- A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from a risk country.
- Passport must be valid six months; proof of accommodation and funds can be requested.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Do not photograph the royal palace, police or military installations
- Carry ID or a passport copy, as police stop vehicles often
Etiquette
- Greet with 'Lumela' and a handshake
- Ask permission before entering villages or photographing people
- Dress modestly in rural areas
- Basotho blankets and hats are cultural dress, not costumes
Tipping
Not expected; 10% in restaurants and a few lotis for guides or pony-trek handlers is appreciated.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.