How to Spend a Royal Weekend in the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho

The beautiful country of Lesotho, often called the mountain kingdom, is located at a high altitude and is full of breathtaking landscapes and fascinating culture. Adventurers, explorers, and peace-loving visitors frequently visit this scenic kingdom for the plethora of outdoor activities and unique cultural experiences they can enjoy. While there are a lot of activities to do and places to visit, it is impossible to get through all of it in one weekend. This comprehensive guide attempts to take you through and maximize your time in the highlands of Lesotho.

Day 1: Arrival in Maseru and Exploring the Capital

Morning: Check-in and Establish your Base

After arriving in Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, it is important to check into a hotel to keep your two to three days as stress-free as possible. It is advisable to do research on the hotel that you’d like to stay at and have a booking in advance. Suppose you haven’t had the time to do so. In that case, many hotels are available in and around the capital, including Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino, which boasts comfortable rooms, beautiful views, and modern amenities. After refreshing yourself, head back out to continue your long weekend.

Afternoon: Discovering Maseru’s History and Culture

An excellent place to begin your exploration would be the Mountain of Night, known locally as Thaba Bosiu. The mountain holds great cultural significance and history in the eyes of the locals. It once served as a fortress for King Moshoeshoe, the first, who was responsible for establishing the very roots of Lesotho in the 19th century. Following Thaba Bosiu, head back to Maseru to explore local markets. Visit the Basotho Hat shop, where you can find traditional crafts and local souvenirs, such as Basotho blankets and intricately woven hats. 

Evening: Dining and Relaxation

In the evening, return to the capital for dinner at one of the many restaurants. Several restaurants serve a mix of international dishes and local favorites. Afterward, you can relax at your hotel’s bar before heading off to bed. Sleeping well is vital to continue the fun and exploration planned for the next day.

Day 2: A Day Trip to Semonkong and Maletsunyane Falls

Morning: Journey to Semonkong

Among the things to do in Lesotho, exploring the nearby waterfall is a great option. Start day two early and take a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Semonkong, a remote village known for its magnificent landscapes and traditional way of life. Semonkong, meaning Place of Smoke, is famous for the Maletsunyane Falls, one of the highest in South Africa. The falls are a must-visit natural wonder that creates stunning mists as they crash into the gorge below. The falls also provide an excellent location for those Instagram-worthy photographs and videos. 

Afternoon: Horse Trekking Around Semonkong

The Basotho ponies best navigate the mountainous terrain of the Lesotho peaks. These animals are bred for their resilience and adaptability around the mountain tracks. After lunch, embark on a horse trekking adventure through the Semonkong area, where you’ll traverse beautiful trails, visit remote villages, and witness the serene beauty of Lesotho’s highlands.

Evening: Return to Maseru

After a day filled with adventure and exploration, return to the capital, Maseru, for a peaceful evening of dining and rest. Most hotels and resorts offer in-house dining for their guests, which would be ideal after a hard day of fun.

Day 3: Exploring Scenic Views

Morning: Visit the Kome Caves

As your weekend draws closer, you can enjoy the last day with light exploration. Take a short drive to the Kome Caves, where an ancient village built right into the sandstone caves is located. Originally used as a safe haven by the Basia clan, these caves are still inhabited and have become a national heritage site. Walking through these cave dwellings offers a glimpse into a unique aspect of Basotho culture, and visitors can learn about the traditional lifestyles that have been preserved here for generations. This would be the perfect conclusion for your long weekend in Lesotho.