Lesotho

Southern Africa

Lesotho is a country in Southern Africa, home to 2.3 million people, with an area of 30,355 km². Its capital is Maseru.

Capital: Maseru
Population: 2.3 million
Area: 30,355 km²
Region: Southern Africa
Density: 77.1 / km²
Status: Sovereign state

Lesotho · Southern Africa · map loads on click

Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.

What Lesotho is known for

Lesotho is best known for Sani Pass, Ts'ehlanyane National Park and Katse Dam.

Lesotho, officially known as the Kingdom of Lesotho, is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. It is entirely surrounded by South Africa and has a population of approximately 2.2 million people. Lesotho is known as the “Kingdom in the Sky” because of its high altitude and mountainous terrain. Its capital and largest city is Maseru.

Lesotho at a glance

Language: Sesotho and English are the official languages, with Sesotho being the most widely spoken
Currency: Lesotho loti (LSL) and South African rand (ZAR)
Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion in Lesotho, with the Roman Catholic Church being the largest denomination
National dish: Pap-pap and sous, a type of porridge served with a meat and tomato sauce
Climate: Lesotho has a highland climate with cold winters and cool summers. The country is prone to occasional droughts and occasional snowfalls occur in the winter months
Main industries: Agriculture, including livestock and crops such as corn, wheat, and beans; textiles and apparel manufacturing; mining, including diamonds, sandstone, and clay; and tourism
GDP: $3.4 billion (nominal, 2021 estimate)
Development: Lesotho is considered a least developed country, with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 178 out of 189 countries (2020)

Things to do in Lesotho

Some of the main tourist attractions in Lesotho include:

Sani Pass a mountain pass that connects Lesotho and South Africa, offering stunning views of the Drakensberg Mountains.
Ts'ehlanyane National Park a national park located in the Maloti Mountains, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Katse Dam a large dam located in the Maluti Mountains, known for its beautiful scenery and the opportunity for fishing and water sports.
Maletsunyane Falls a waterfall located in the Semonkong region, known for its height and scenic beauty.
Thaba Bosiu National Monument: a historical site that served as the capital of the Basotho Kingdom and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Morija Museum and Archives a museum and research center that showcases the history and culture of Lesotho.
Bokong Nature Reserve a nature reserve known for its stunning views of the Bokong River and the surrounding mountains.
Sehlabathebe National Park a national park known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Tse'hlanyane Cultural Village a cultural center that showcases the traditional lifestyle and customs of the Basotho people.
Kome Cave Dwellings a series of traditional homes built into sandstone cliffs, providing a unique glimpse into Lesotho's cultural heritage.

These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Lesotho has to offer. The country is also known for its rich history and cultural traditions, including its vibrant music and dance.