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| The flag of Lesotho. Unfurled in 2006 to celebrate 40 years of independence. |
The Kingdom of Lesotho (Pronounced Lesootoo) is one of only three kingdoms in the whole of Africa. The King's role is mainly ceremonial, very much like the UK monarchy. The current Monarch is King Letsie III.
Lesotho is about the size of Belgium and is completely surrounded by South Africa. It is known as "The Kingdom In The Sky" because every point in Lesotho is over 1000m above sea level. In 1966 Lesotho gained independence from The British, it must be stressed that Lesotho was not a colony but a protectorate. King Moshoeshoe I, widely regarded as the "Father Of The Nation" , appealed directly to the British for protection from the steady encroachment of Afrikaner settlements into his nation's lands. As a result Basutoland as it was then known never became part of the Union of South Africa.
As you can imagine Lesotho is a poor country that for many years was ignored by the world, and was used by many as a weekend destination gambling resort for South African whites during the strict apartheid years.
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| The Maluti Mountains of Lesotho. |
Lesotho although still very poor, but it now has a substantial income with which it has embarked on a stunning development programme. Road communications have improved beyond belief, education has also increased and although not compulsory, Basotho parents have realised that educating their children is one of the best investments they can make, and Lesotho has the highest literacy rate for 15 and under in southern Africa!
On the heals of The Highlands Water Project came diamond mining and with this new found source of wealth Lesotho is now truly able to develop its many resources.
The People.
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| Blankets, horses and ponies are highly prized by Basotho |
The national dress is funnily enough the blanket. Winter in Lesotho is bitterly cold and the blanket will Keep you warm against the ice and snow. Men, women and children all wear the blanket, and there is a specific way of wearing it.
The Basotho are very capable horsemen and one of the national passions is horse racing. Horses and ponies are prized possessions and are pieces of transport in the rural areas.
Maseru.
Maseru is the capital and seat of government of Lesotho. It is a small but yet very vibrant city nestling in the rolling hills of the lowlands, with a train station linking it to South Africa it is also a border town. Embassies and High Commissions as well as all the major banks and businesses are represented there.
One of the most striking feature of this city is on the main drag, and is affectionately known as "The Basotho Hat" because of its novel roof design in the shape of a Basotho Hat. The building is actually the Maseru Arts & Craft Centre. It is well worth a visit as you will get a very good feel for the language, customs and of course the culture, standing you in good stead for any rural visits you may make.
The capital is also the home Moshoeshoe I International Airport. Maseru more than anything else is the gateway to the rest of this remarkable country.
Official Languages.
The official languages of Lesotho are English and Sesotho.
What to do and see.
Lesotho is a real magnet now for people who enjoy the great outdoors. However, for those who yearn for culture and history there is a wealth of things to see and do.
Outdoors
The longest commercial abseil in the world can be experienced along side the stunning Maletsunyane Falls, a thrill in both counts!
While compared to South Africa, Lesotho is devoid of birds, the highlands are home to some of the rarest specialist breeds and is a certain destination for all birders. The birding hot-spots include The Upper Quthing Valley and Matebeng Sehlabathebe National Park.
The existence of life in Lesotho dates make over 200 million years. The evidence lies in the numerous fossilized dinosaur footprints uncovered throughout Lesotho. Many of the pathways are difficult to find and it would be wise to depend on the knowledge of local people.Important trails centre around the towns of Leribe (Hlotse), Mohale's Hook and Moyeni. Lesotho, with its highland streams offers some of the best trout in Africa. The fishing season is from September to the end of May with maximum catch level and size. You will require a fishing licence and these can be obtained from the appropriate authorities. Other fish include Barbel, Yellowfish and Maluti Minnow. In the rainy season many of the highland streams become cloudy and this will adversely affect fishing in those areas. Although Lesotho having ideal conditions for paragliding and Hang gliding there are no licenced or established organisations that provide this pastime.
Many of the pony trekking pathways and trails also offer great routes for mountain bikers to follow. One of the most challenging and scenic route that is on offer to experienced mountain bikers is Sani Pass. With a drop of 1200m in the space of 8kms with its hairpins and sheer drops, it is NOT recommended for beginners.
Lesotho is famed for its horses and ponies, and when this teamed up with the expert horsemanship of the Basotho, pony trekking is possibly the best way to see the Maluti Mountains in all their rugged beauty. As there are no roads in this area of the country, trekking is the only way to see and experience rural life and culture in the otherwise isolated mountain villages.
With more mountain peaks per sq km than any other country in Africa. Lesotho offers challenging climbs for the experienced climber. Please note that if you climb be prepared and take advice from the local people.
Although there are no formal walking and hiking organisations the pony trekking pathways are an ideal way of taking in the possibly cleanest air in southern Africa and again is an ideal way to see the highlands and to experience the local lifestyle. It is highly advisable to take maps and compasses or GPS and food and water when hiking and walking.
Close to Butha Buthe, in the north of Lesotho at 3222m above sea level is the longest ski slope in Africa. There are three slopes on offer, catering for beginners right through to the experienced skier. The resort also has ski lifts and facilities for snowboarders and skiers alike. The best time to hit the slopes is June to August.
Arts and Culture.
The Morija National Museum and Archives is a wealth of traditional and historical documents and materials that cover all areas of history and culture of Lesotho. Morija is situated 45 kms south of Maseru, is not open everyday so please check opening times.
The Morija Arts and Cultural Festival covers all aspects of modern Basotho culture, music and arts. With various plays, concerts and exhibitions at various locations throughout the village. Lesotho is rightly very proud of its culture and traditional dances, so the festival is a must see, especially with the various dances that are performed by both men and women.
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| The Basotho Hat |
How To Get There.
Maseru is a one hour flight from the international hub of Johannesburg. All major carriers fly to Johannesburg, but only Lesotho Airways and South African Airways fly to Maseru. To find the best fares and flights click on:
Where To Stay.
There are a number of hotels in Lesotho on offer and for the best reviews and rates click on:
Visa Requirements.
All visitors must have valid passports and enough funds to sustain themselves for the duration of their stay. Onward tickets must also be shown. However, there are citizens of certain countries that must meet additional requirements. Please click on
Money.
The Maluti is the currency of Lesotho and is on parity with the South African Rand. Rand are readily accepted throughout Lesotho. However, Maluti ARE NOT accepted in South Africa.
Travelers cheques in Sterling and US Dollars are also widely accepted.
Last Word.....
Basotho place a lot of emphasis on manners and respect for their elders. Always be polite and always respect the elderly.
Bon Voyage!
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