Lesotho? Lesooto? Pity the poor gate agents or travel agents when they realise that they are not up to speed on this rather nice country. Luh·soo·too is the correct way to say it. But, no matter how you say it, it’s nice and it’s genuinely a find that will get your friends jumping on a plane and visit.
Lesotho, often referred to as the “Kingdom in the Sky” or the “Mountain Kingdom,” is a landlocked country entirely surrounded by South Africa. It’s a genuinely unique and often overlooked destination that offers a distinctive African experience, particularly for travelers who appreciate nature, adventure, and authentic culture.
Have you heard of it? Likely not, but here is a summary. Lesotho is the only independent state in the world that exists entirely above 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) in elevation. Its lowest point is 1,400 meters, which is the highest lowest point of any country. This makes for consistently high, crisp air and panoramic views.
Dominated by the soaring Maloti and Drakensberg Mountains, the country offers stunning vistas of rugged peaks, deep valleys, winding rivers, and rolling grasslands. It’s a geological marvel with unique rock formations. One of Africa’s highest single-drop waterfalls, plunging 192 meters (630 feet) into a dramatic gorge. The spray creates a misty “place of smoke” (Semonkong), which gives the nearby town its name.
There’s lots to do, much of it out in the clean fresh air. Pony Trekking: This is the quintessential Lesotho experience. The hardy Basotho ponies are the traditional mode of transport in the highlands, allowing you to access remote villages and breathtaking viewpoints inaccessible by car. Multi-day treks staying in local villages are a highlight. From challenging multi-day hikes in the Maloti-Drakensberg World Heritage Site to gentler walks around villages, Lesotho offers trails for all levels. You’ll encounter waterfalls, rock pools, and incredible solitude. Note! there is more than one Lesotho on the planet, so if you want to book, look sharp!
As ever, Expedia can get you there with flights, stays, activities, transportation and more. To book, click here.