Nicknamed the “Kingdom in the Sky,” Lesotho is a land of peaks and highlands and home to the highest mountain in Southern Africa, Thabana Ntlenyana. Go skiing in the Maluti Mountains, mountain bike through African wilderness and embark on pony treks to remote villages.

South Africa surrounds Lesotho on all sides, making it one of only three countries in the world completely surrounded by another country. The Basotho people, a Bantu ethnic group, make up more than 99 percent of Lesotho’s population. Visit rural areas to observe centuries-old ways of life. Agricultural farming is often the main source of income for residents and many villagers live in traditional mud huts.

Head to the remote wilds of Malealea in the west of the country for an overnight pony trek or a hike through stunning scenery. Further north sits Leribe, where dinosaur footprints can be found near the Subeng River.

In the central part of the country is the Bokong Nature Reserve. One of Africa’s highest nature reserves, Bokong sits on a cliff overlooking the highlands. Trek to the reserve’s Lepaquoa Waterfall and look for bird species such as the exotic bearded vulture.

Although natural attractions abound, Lesotho also promises man-made thrills. Marvel at the power of the Katse Dam, a feat of engineering with its own dedicated visitors’ center. Also of note is the cave art and Stone Age artifacts of the Liphofung Caves in the north.

Drive from South Africa to Lesotho, entering via one of the more than 10 different border posts. Alternatively, fly into Moshoeshoe I International Airport from Johannesburg. Consider renting a four-wheel drive for travel within Lesotho, as many roads are unpaved and impassable in the rainy season without specialized vehicles.

Lesotho has over 300 sunny days a year, and the hottest months are January and February. Bring plenty of waterproof clothes in the summer, as this is Lesotho’s rainy season. Winter sports lovers should come from May to September, when snow falls on the highlands. 

Plan adventures in Lesotho, a land with rich cultural traditions and unspoiled natural attractions.