Car Hire Lesotho - Mini guide to Lesotho

The mountain kingdom of Lesotho is completely landlocked by South Africa, but displays a distinctively unique African culture. It’s people are noticeably gentler, it’s mountainous interior is scarcely accessible and sparsely developed and the landscape is breathtaking in parts. People come here to get away from it all.

Maseru, the capital, is situated on the western border, on a broad plain that holds most of the country’s settlements. With little over 200,000 inhabitants, it is a sleepy, typically African town, laid back and easy to explore on foot, but has few notable attractions, other than to wander around taking in the typical African routine. Surrounding the capital are 'urban villages', such as Phomolong where you can get a first-hand look at a more traditional lifestyle.

If you’re interested in unique Basotho handicrafts, including the ubiquitous peaked hat, head for Teyateyaneng (often referred to as ‘TY’), a collection of arts and crafts small-scale industries promoted by the government. The tapestries, tribal wool products and carvings are particularly good and the center is only a short taxi ride from Maseru.

The mountainous northeastern interior is largely inaccessible though some tour companies organise rugged pony treks to remote villages, a unique treat if you’re looking for adventure. The Sani Pass gives access to South Africa’s ‘ski region’ though the activity isn’t well developed. Good hiking trails and a barren beauty are what you’ll find at the small town of Mokhotlong.

The only other significant settlement, other than Maseru, is Quthing, in the south western plains. Its highlight is the Masitise Cave House featuring San paintings, some 180 million year old dinosaur footprints and a striking sandstone church.

Many visitors arrive by car from South Africa and spend a few days exploring the less mountainous areas, for a true taste of unspoilt Africa. If you venture onto the more mountainous passes by 4X4, heading for the Drakensburg, you’ll be rewarded by isolated beauty. There are also regular flights to Maseru’s Moshoeshoe international from Johannesburg.