Visit Lesotho, South Africa

The term “mountain kingdom” is wholly appropriate for Lesotho, both geographically and historically.

Moshoeshoe I, the founding king, defended his nascent kingdom from the mountain top of Thaba Bosiu, and the country is dominated by rugged peaks and high plateaus.

Getting around Lesotho

The land in the west is flattest, and it is here that most development has taken place around the capital Maseru. The infrastructure is pretty basic too and most of the roads that traverse the country require a 4x4 if it has been raining.

It requires a far greater sense of humour and adventure to explore than neighbouring South Africa, and those who persevere are rewarded with superb hiking and pony trails, spectacular waterfalls, jagged mountain scenery and extensive San rock art.