Lesotho / Naha ea Lesotho – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Lesotho?
Lesotho is relatively small, mountainous, landlocked Kingdom in the Maloti Mountains in southern Africa. The highest peak is Thabana Ntlenyana, at 11,424 ft (3,482 m) above sea level. It’s entirely surrounded by South Africa, and is about the size of Belgium.
It’s the only country in the world that lies entirely above 1,000 m (3,280 ft) in elevation – its lowest point being about 4,600 ft (1,400m) above sea level. Because of it’s height, most of the rain is accompanied by thunderstorms, and it can get pretty cold (-18°C, 0°F).
The population of Lesotho is around 2¼ million people (2023), about ⅓ million of whom live in the capital, Maseru.
A bit about the history of Lesotho
Early History and Kingdom of Lesotho
Lesotho has a long history that dates back to the early inhabitants of southern Africa. The region was originally inhabited by the Khoisan people, but by the 16th century, Bantu-speaking groups such as the Sotho-Tswana migrated into the area. The Kingdom of Lesotho, originally known as Basutoland, emerged in the early 19th century, founded by King Moshoeshoe I. He united various Sotho clans in the face of external threats, such as raids from the Zulu and British colonial forces.
British Protectorate
In the mid-19th century, the British, who had colonised much of southern Africa, established Basutoland as a British protectorate in 1868 to protect the Basotho people from Boer encroachment from the Transvaal. The protectorate was intended to maintain stability in the region, but it also marked the beginning of British control over the kingdom. Over time, Lesotho was governed by British-appointed officials, though Moshoeshoe I remained a respected figure.
Path to Independence
Lesotho’s path to independence began in the mid 20th century. After World War II, many African nations began seeking independence from colonial rule. In 1960, the British government promised self government for Basutoland, and in 1965, the country was granted full internal self rule. On 4 October 1966, Lesotho became an independent kingdom, with King Moshoeshoe II as the monarch and a parliamentary democracy established under the leadership of the Basotho National Party (BNP).
Early Independence and Political Instability
Independence did not bring lasting stability. Political tensions between the BNP, led by Prime Minister Chief Leabua Jonathan, and other political factions, led to several changes in government. In 1970, Jonathan’s government suspended the constitution after his party lost elections, claiming irregularities. The move sparked unrest, and the military played a significant role in the politics of Lesotho, with power frequently shifting between civilian and military rule.
Military Rule and the Return of the Monarchy
In 1986, a military coup led by General Justin Lekhanya overthrew the government, and military rule began. During this time, King Moshoeshoe II was exiled, and the country was governed by a military junta. In 1990, political pressure and growing public discontent led to reforms, and in 1993, a peaceful transition to democracy took place. The monarchy was restored with Moshoeshoe II returning to the throne, but he was soon replaced by his son, King Letsie III, after Moshoeshoe II’s death in 1996.
Democratic Consolidation and Challenges
Lesotho’s transition to democracy faced many challenges, including political instability, corruption, and economic difficulties. However, in 1998, the country held its first truly democratic elections. The elections were marked by violent protests and allegations of electoral fraud. The Southern African Development Community intervened to restore order, and a new coalition government was formed. In the 2000s, Lesotho continued its efforts to stabilise politically and strengthen its democratic institutions. However, governance issues, ethnic tensions, and internal divisions continued to affect the country.
Recent Political Instability and Reforms
From 2010 onwards, Lesotho saw repeated political instability, with the military often involved in political matters. In 2014, Prime Minister Thomas Thabane was forced into exile after a failed coup attempt by the military. In the following years, Lesotho saw a series of unstable coalitions, with frequent changes in government leadership. Efforts at reforming the political system were undertaken in the 2010s, with the aim of strengthening the rule of law and ensuring greater political stability. However, tensions within the ruling parties and the military’s involvement in politics remained significant challenges.
2020s: Ongoing Challenges and Reform Attempts
Lesotho entered the 2020s with hopes of continued reform and development, but it still faced political instability, economic challenges, and concerns about governance. In 2020, the government, led by Prime Minister Thomas Thabane, faced a crisis following allegations of corruption and his involvement in a murder investigation related to his estranged wife. Thabane stepped down, and the country continued to struggle with maintaining a stable political environment. In 2022, new elections were held, and a new coalition government was formed. The elections were a step towards resolving some of the political challenges that had plagued the country. However, Lesotho still faces significant issues, including poverty, unemployment and dependence on South Africa, which remains the country’s largest trading partner and provider of remittances from migrant workers.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As of 2025, Lesotho continues to face significant political, economic, and social challenges. Efforts to improve governance, ensure the independence of the judiciary and address corruption are ongoing. The country remains heavily dependent on the agricultural sector, particularly in the production of wool and mohair, and faces challenges related to climate change, particularly water scarcity and droughts.
Lesotho road trip
Our Basotho road trip is part of a much larger African road trip.
Our current planned road trip through Lesotho takes us from Cape Town in South Africa towards the capital, Maseru, before heading back into South Africa and on to Eswatini.
No doubt we’ll explore the country much more than this continent-spanning short route shows, in particular checking out inland Lesotho.
Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂
Map of Lesotho
What’s it like to drive in Lesotho?
They drive on the left hand side of the road in Lesotho. In the main, roads are quite poor, with many being unsurfaced dirt tracks. Driving standards are also poor.
Do you require an international driving permit in Lesotho?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Lesotho?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Lesotho?
A Carnet de Passages is required to overland in Lesotho. We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in Lesotho?
In Lesotho they use the Lesotho loti, although the South African Rand is also accepted. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is not widely accepted outside of the capital, Maseru. Travellers cheques are not readily accepted. There are some ATMs throughout the country.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Lesotho?
They mainly speak English and Sesotho in Lesotho.
What time zone is Lesotho in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Lesotho?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Lesotho?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Lesotho.
What plug / socket type do they use in Lesotho?
In Lesotho they use plug / socket type M.
Health issues in Lesotho
Lesotho has the second highest prevalence of HIV among people aged 15 to 49 in the world, at 23.6%.
Is it safe to drink water in Lesotho?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Lesotho. Bottled water is readily available throughout the country.
What vaccinations are required for Lesotho?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Lesotho.
Phones in Lesotho
What is the country calling code for Lesotho?
The country calling code for Lesotho is +266
What are the emergency phone numbers in Lesotho?
- The emergency number for police in Lesotho is: 123
- In Lesotho, the emergency number for ambulance is: 121
- The emergency number for fire in Lesotho is: 122
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!