WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Lesotho

Location

Climate

Lesotho is a small landlocked country in South Africa, offering breathtaking scenery, a rich and diverse culture, and numerous events and festivals throughout the year.

Weather and seasons

In Lesotho, the climate is generally dryThe climate is mild, with hot, rainy summers and mild, dry winters. The rainy season extends from November to March, while the dry season is between April and October. The climate also varies according to altitude and region of the country, making certain parts more accessible or attractive depending on the time of year.

Dry season (April to October)

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Lesotho, as temperatures are pleasant and rainfall minimal. During this period, conditions are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. July and August can be cooler, with night-time temperatures dropping to 0°C in some mountainous regions.

Rainy season (November to March)

The rainy season in Lesotho is characterized by intermittent showers, usually in the late afternoon or evening. Although the weather is less predictable during this period, the verdant landscapes and swollen rivers add a special charm to the country. Fans of rafting and of kayak will also find this an ideal time to enjoy the white water.

High and low tourist season

As far as tourism in Lesotho is concerned, there are two main seasons: high season, from May to September, and low season, from November to April.

High season (May to September)

High season coincides with the dry season and winter months, attracting large numbers of visitors to enjoy the pleasant climate and outdoor activities. During this period, it's advisable to book popular accommodation and activities in advance, as they can quickly sell out. In addition, prices may be slightly higher due to increased demand.

Low season (November to April)

The low tourist season, which corresponds to the rainy season and the summer months, is generally less crowded. This means travelers can enjoy more affordable rates and a quieter atmosphere. However, bear in mind that some secondary roads may be difficult to access due to rainfall, and some accommodations and attractions may be closed or have reduced opening hours.

Major cultural events and public holidays

Lesotho celebrates a large number of traditional and cultural festivalsas well as several national holidays throughout the year. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Moshoeshoe Day (March 11) : This day commemorates the birth of Lesotho's founder and first king, Moshoeshoe I. Official ceremonies and festivities are held throughout the country to honor his memory.
• Independence Day (October 4): Lesotho celebrates its independence from Britain in 1966 with parades, speeches and fireworks across the country.
• Morija Arts & Cultural Festival (September/October) : This annual festival, held in the historic town of Morija, celebrates Lesotho's cultural heritage through art exhibitions, traditional dance and music performances, and educational workshops.
• International Polo Festival (August) : Every year, polo fans gather to attend this prestigious tournament, which attracts players and teams from all over the world. The festival also includes social events and attractions for the whole family.

Immigration in Lesotho: an overview

Lesotho has a population of around 2 million, and regularly welcomes immigrants from neighboring countries and other parts of the world. According to government statistics, the number of immigrants to Lesotho has increased in recent years, mainly due to factors such as economic opportunities and the country's political stability. The main sources of immigration to Lesotho are neighboring African countries, in particular the Democratic Republic of Congo.South Africa, THE Zimbabwe, THE Mozambique and the Zambia. However, there are also significant numbers of immigrants from other parts of the world, notably Europe and Asia.

Immigrant origin

Immigrants to Lesotho come from a variety of backgrounds, with a particularly strong representation of people from the southern region of Africa. Other common nationalities include italian, spanish and portuguese. Lesotho's ethnic and cultural diversity is an asset for the country and contributes to its economic and social development.

Most popular visas in Lesotho

There are several types of visa available for those wishing to visit Lesotho. Visa applications are processed by Lesotho's Ministry of Foreign and International Affairs. Here are the most commonly requested visas:

• Visitor visa Lesotho visa: This visa is issued to people wishing to visit Lesotho for tourism, family reasons or other temporary visits. It is generally valid for up to 90 days.
• Business Visa This visa is intended for people wishing to visit Lesotho for professional reasons, such as attending conferences, meetings or training courses. This visa is also valid for up to 90 days.
• Work visa This visa is granted to people who have obtained employment in Lesotho and require a work permit to legally exercise their profession in the country. The duration of this visa varies according to the nature and duration of the work contract.
• Student visa This visa is intended for foreign students admitted to an institution of higher education in Lesotho. The duration of this visa generally corresponds to the duration of the study program.

It is important to note that nationals of certain countries, notably those belonging to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), are exempt from visa requirements when entering Lesotho for short stays.

International tourism in Lesotho: key figures

Lesotho's tourism sector is constantly evolving and continues to welcome a growing number of international visitors every year. Here are some key statistics on international tourism in Lesotho:

• Total number of international tourists According to available data, Lesotho welcomed around 1.2 million international tourists in 2019. This figure represents a significant increase on previous years.
• Tourism revenues Lesotho: revenues generated by the tourism sector in Lesotho represent a significant part of the national economy. In 2019, total tourism revenues amounted to around 150 million US dollars.
• Main issuing markets Key markets for international tourists to Lesotho include South Africa, the UK, Germany, the USA and France.
• Popular tourist attractions Lesotho offers a variety of tourist attractions, including the magnificent Drakensberg and Maloti mountain landscapes, Sehlabathebe National Park and the country's rich and diverse culture.

Tourism trends and prospects in Lesotho

In recent years, the government of Lesotho has implemented a number of initiatives aimed at boosting the tourism sector and attracting more international visitors. These efforts include improving tourism infrastructure, promoting the country as an eco-friendly and responsible destination, and strengthening partnerships with travel agencies and international tourism organizations.