Know before you go
Lesotho
General Information
Lesotho is an enclave within South Africa. Its capital and largest city is Maseru. They drive on the left side of the road.
Visa
Please check out this link to see if you are required to apply for a visa or not or contact your ministery of foreign affairs.
Watch Geography Now!
The video will give you a good first overview of Lesotho.
Power
Lesotho uses Type M plug outlets. Type M looks like plug D, but with larger pins and only works with plug M. The voltage is 220 Volt and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Language
The main language, Sesotho, is also the first official and administrative language of Lesotho. People speak it on an ordinary basis. English is the second official language of the country.
| Sesotho | English |
|---|---|
| Lumela! | Hello! |
| Ho joalo! | Bye! |
| e | yes |
| che | no |
| Kea leboha! | Thank you! |
| Ho lebohile 'na! | You're welcome! |
| Ntšoarele! | Excuse me! |
| Ho thabetse! | Cheers! |
Weather Forecast
Climate
Because of its elevation, Lesotho remains cooler throughout the year than other regions at the same latitude. Most of the rain falls as summer thunderstorms. Maseru and surrounding lowlands often reach 30 °C (86 °F) in summer. Winters can be cold with the lowlands getting down to −7 °C (19 °F) and the highlands to −18 °C (0 °F) at times. Snow is common in the highlands between May and September; the higher peaks can experience snowfalls year-round.
Average Temperature in Maseru
Average Precipitation in Maseru
Transportation
How to get there?
The only international airport of Lesoto is Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU) in Maseru which only flies to South Africa. Most people however, drive to Lesoto from South Africa. The easiest route is taking the South African highway number 8. It will take you around 2 hours to drive from Bloemfontein to Maseru. It is also possible to access Lesotho from the Drakensbergs in South Africa where local operators offer one-day tours.
How to get around?
If you are not on a guided tour, you should rent a car.
Money, Money, Money
Currency
Lesotho uses the Loti as its currency. Check out the currency converter to find out about current exchange rates.
Accommodation
Depending on where you are staying prices will vary of course. Expect to be paying around 20€ per person per night.
Cash
The South African Rand is also accepted in Lesoto. Cash is king in most places. How much you will need of course depends on your spending habits. Expect to need around 20€ per day for food, transportation, activities and souvenirs.
