Lesotho Xplorer (12 day tour)
An unforgettable journey through the heart of Lesotho, starting from the vibrant city of Bloemfontein in South Africa. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, taking you from the scenic landscapes of Malealea to the majestic heights of Semonkong. You will experience the thrill of horse riding, guided hikes, and even abseiling down the stunning Maletsunyane Falls. Each day promises new discoveries, from exploring historic caves to engaging in local village life, providing a deep and immersive experience of Lesotho’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
As you travel through picturesque villages and breathtaking terrains, you will have the opportunity to connect with the local communities and learn about their traditions and way of life. Enjoy warm hospitality with welcome ceremonies, traditional meals, and hands-on activities such as cooking classes and blanket handovers. This tour not only showcases the scenic wonders of Lesotho but also offers a meaningful cultural exchange, making it a truly enriching and memorable adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Malealea
You will be picked up at Bloemfontein Airport in South Africa and cross the border into Lesotho, heading toward Malealea. After checking in and freshening up, you will meet for a welcome braai (a local form of barbeque) dinner at 7pm.
Day 2: Malealea
The second day begins with breakfast at the lodge, followed by an optional horse ride adventure. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the area or relaxing at the lodge, with food available at the bar area at your own expense.
Day 3: Malealea
After breakfast at the lodge, you will set out on a guided day hike through the mountains, with a picnic along the way. Dinner will be at 7pm.
Day 4: Semonkong
After an early breakfast we’ll be heading out for Semonkong, place of smoke, enjoying some jaw-dropping scenery along the way. Upon arrival, you will check in and meet for dinner at 7pm.
Day 5: Semonkong
After breakfast at the lodge we will have an abseiling lesson on a small ridge. You will have leisure time, with an optional abseiling adventure down the 192-meter Maletsunyane Falls! Otherwise, watch the brave abseilers from a viewpoint . Dinner will be at 7pm.
Day 6: Semonkong
Following breakfast at the lodge, you can choose between a horse trail or a guided walk through the mountains and along serene streams. The rest of the day will be spent at leisure, with dinner at 7pm and overnight in a shared hut.
Day 7: Village experience
The seventh day begins with breakfast at the lodge before driving to the village where you’ll participate in a welcome ceremony including the sacred handing-over of blankets ceremony. Dinner will be at 7pm, and we will spend the next few nights at the village.
Day 8: Village experience
We start the day with breakfast at the main house, followed by a guided walk around the village where we will discuss village life and skills such as herding and agriculture. You will then visit the local primary school to meet the village kids and have dinner at the main house, staying overnight in the village once again.
Day 9: Village experience
After breakfast at the main house, you will hike to a hidden ancient cave nearby. After some rest, you will take part in a traditional Basotho cooking class and help prepare dinner. Dinner will be at the main house, and you will rest overnight in the village.
Day 10: Ramabanta Trading Post
After breakfast at the main house we will say farewell to the village and head to a lodge closer to Maseru. You will explore the area on foot and meet for dinner at 7pm.
Day 11: Maseru
After breakfast at the lodge, you will embark on a guided tour of Maseru, including visits to the handicrafts center, King’s Palace, Moshoeshoe Statue, and the new Parliament. You will transfer back to the lodge and meet for dinner at 7pm.
Day 12: Departure
Starts with breakfast at the lodge before crossing the border back into South Africa, and being dropped off at Bloemfontein Airport.
Included:
- English-speaking guide
- All transfers listed (air-conditioned tour vehicle)
- Meals
– Breakfasts: 10
– Lunches: 4
– Dinners: 11 - Accommodation (11 nights)
– Private rooms / shared huts in the village - Activities
– Guided day hike with a picnic
– Horse trail or guided walk
– Welcome ceremony and handing-over of blankets ceremony
– Guided walk around the village, talk about village life and skills, visit to the local primary school
– Guided hike to a historic cave
– Cooking class
– Guided tour of Maseru including visits to the Handicrafts center, King’s Palace, Moshoeshoe Statue, and New Parliament
Not included:
- Flights
- Insurance
- Meals not listed
- Anything of a personal nature
Price: from R33 984 pp sharing
Departs: Bloemfontein (South Africa)
Ends: Bloemfontein (South Africa)
* Minimum 4 guests