Biggest Attraction in Lesotho is Hiking

Lesotho is a land locked country, entirely surrounded by the Republic of South Africa.

Lesothos formidable terrain is created by the sheer walls of the Drakensberg and Maluti mountains, which give sanctuary to a unique developing nation.

The friendly Basotho are one of the few mountain peoples in Africa and have developed a rich culture, often in isolated villages.

The entire country of Lesotho lies 1000m above sea level and boasts Thabana Ntlenyana, at 3482m, the highest peak in Africa south of Kilimanjaro.

Winter in Lesotho is from June to August, September to April is spring and summer with beautiful warm sunny days and occasional rain. Lesotho boasts 299 sunny days per year.

Maseru is the main centre for anything and everything you need to buy, exchange, post or dial. It is the only place you will find banks to exchange foreign money and travellers cheques.

There are no trains to or in Lesotho, so your best bet would be by bus and private vehicle. Before setting out, seek advice from the locals or police station with regard to gravel road conditions.

Without doubt the biggest attraction in Lesotho is hiking.

For bird watching enthusiast, Lesotho is renowned for its large raptor population, including the Cape Vulture, the rare Bearded Vulture, the Steppe Buzzard and the Black Eagle.

Pony trekking is recommended, with the main centres the Basotho Trekking Centre on God Help Me pass, and Malealea Lodge near the Gates of Paradise.

You can start the arduous trek to Thabana Ntlenyana, Southern Africas highest peak, on horseback. The road is suited to 4x4, but weather permitting, you could get up in a 4x2 vehicle. A friendly bar at the top will crown your sense of achievement at having scaled the dramatic pass. Youll feel on top of the world.

There are a few budget accommodation options here too. Lesotho has a wide range of standards when it comes to places to stay from five star hotels and first class luxury lodges, to rustic bush camps, guesthouses, backpackers and campsites.

The tourism sector is one industry which stands to benefit. The tourism industry is being actively promoted by LNDC and a number of hotels, mountain lodges and a national park have been developed in recent years. It is marketed as a haven for those who enjoy back to nature adventures with a wide range of activities offered. The majestic beauty of its rugged mountains and has the simple way of life.