Travel to Lesotho with travel insurance from Essential Travel

click here for a single trip travel insurancequotation

Information on Lesotho with single trip travel insurance from Essential Travel

The small country of Lesotho is a little known gem that is surrounded on all sides by the Republic of South Africa, with the result that many international visitors assume the two to be merged. In fact, Lesotho is an independent country with its own distinct flavour and unique attractions, the most striking of which is its spectacular mountains.

Eighty-five per cent of the country is defined by its mountains, and one of the more interesting forms of transport in Lesotho is one that has evolved from the country’s geography – pony-trekking. Travelling to remote villages in this way provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the rugged, mountainous landscape and absorb the culture of its traditional people.

The capital city of Maseru is located on the country’s western border, and is a slow-paced settlement that is home to approximately 200,000 people. The city is easily navigated on foot, but its attractions are limited, with the exception of a number of friendly nightspots where locals and expatriates gather on a regular basis. To gain exposure to the more traditional side of the Lesotho lifestyle, visitors should travel to one of the many ‘urban villages’, such as Phomolong, that surround the country’s capital.

Farther afield, the town of Mokhotlong, meaning ‘Place of the Bald Ibis’, is situated on the breathtaking Sani Pass and is an ideal springboard for hikes through the Drakensberg Mountain range. Also of interest is Quthing, where attractions include authentic San artwork, a fascinating sandstone church and ancient dinosaur footprints. Teyateyaneng is Lesotho’s arts and crafts centre and is an excellent place to pick up typical souvenirs and gifts.

Pony trekking and hiking across the country’s rocky escarpments are popular leisure pursuits, and offer travellers the opportunity to experience the country’s natural wonders and a genuine glimpse into the daily routine of its rural people. Birdlife is abundant in these pristine highlands, and trout fishing in the clear mountain streams is an appealing option for keen fishermen.

Although Lesotho is one of the safer African countries, muggings are not uncommon, particularly in Maseru, and high unemployment rates in the cities have led to an increase in the crime rate. Be alert for signs of theft and car-jackings, particularly at night, and take out travel insurance to ensure that you are covered for any mishaps.

back to city guides