Settings -
£
$
¥
$
¥
HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaLesothoLesotho
Lesotho road

Lesotho Road Trip

Maseru - Hlotse - Letseng la Terae - Bokong River - Sehlabathebe N.P. - Sekake - Mohale's Hoek - Qaba

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Wildlife Wildlife
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Culture Culture
Urban life Urban life
Lesotho Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages8 km1,073 h/stage2.2

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Lesotho Road Trip in Lesotho?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 450EUR drive & more 150EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,050EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,500EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,350EUR drive & more 188EUR sleep & more 924EUR eat & more 360EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,472EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,822EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,800EUR drive & more 263EUR sleep & more 1,584EUR eat & more 480EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,327EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,127EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,250EUR drive & more 288EUR sleep & more 550EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,078EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,328EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
Share this link.

Lesotho Road Trip Itinerary

The Lesotho Road Trip is the ideal way to explore the beautiful country of Lesotho. Starting in the capital city of Maseru, the route leads through the towns of Hlotse, Letseng la Terae, Bokong River, Sehlabathebe N.P., Sekake, and Mohale's Hoek, covering a distance of approximately 1073km. The recommended time to complete the trip is 10 days, allowing for plenty of time to take in the stunning landscapes and nature along the way. The best time of year to drive is in the summer months, when the roads are in good condition and the scenery is at its best. Although the roads are mainly good, there are some parts that are a bit curvy, so drivers should be aware of this. The Lesotho Road Trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a low budget. It provides a high level of experience and memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. So don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore the country of Lesotho!
number of days 10 number of days
route length 1,073 km route length
budget low budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Maseru

Distance 1,073 km Driving time 17.9 h Pace: modest 279.1 kWh Airports MSU
[detailsContainer]
Maseru is the vibrant capital of Lesotho and the perfect starting point for the Lesotho Road Trip. This city is home to a variety of cultural and historical attractions, including the National Museum, Maseru Nature Reserve, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Victories. The city also provides plenty of entertainment options, with its many restaurants and bars. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU), located just outside of the city. Upon arrival, travelers can easily rent a car to get around and explore the area. During your stay in Maseru, be sure to visit the Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village, which is a living museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Basotho people. The Lesotho National Library and Archives is also worth a visit and is the largest library in the country. For those looking for outdoor activities, the Maseru Nature Reserve is the perfect place to go for hiking, bird watching, and exciting wildlife encounters. For a unique experience, visit the Katse Dam and the nearby villages, which provide visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. On your way back, be sure to stop at the Sani Pass, which is the highest mountain pass in Africa. Whether you are just starting your Lesotho Road Trip or looking for an exciting adventure, Maseru is full of possibilities. From its vibrant culture to its stunning landscapes, it is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

1 Maseru - Hlotse

Distance 116 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: modest 30.1 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options 4WD recommended dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an adventure? Embark on a road trip from Maseru to Hlotse, a 116 km drive that will take you less than 3 hours. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and it will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Lesotho. To make the most of your journey, a 4WD car is advisable. Start your journey in Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, and visit the Basotho Cultural Village, where you can experience the vibrant culture of the country. Then, make your way to the Malealea Lodge, located in the Malealea Valley, and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains. Continue your journey to Hlotse, where you can visit the Makhoarane Cave, the largest cave in Lesotho, and admire its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Finally, explore the Maletsunyane Falls, located in the Semonkong Village, and take in the breathtaking views of the highest single-drop waterfall in Southern Africa. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on this amazing road trip from Maseru to Hlotse!

2 Hlotse - Letseng la Terae

Distance 119 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 35.6 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a 119 km journey from Hlotse to Letseng la Terae, passing through Moteng Pass. This scenic road trip will take you less than two hours and is best taken in a 4WD car due to its winding sections. Along the way, you will be able to take in the stunning views of the mountain range and the surrounding countryside. Make sure to take a break at Moteng Pass, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the region. As you continue your journey, you’ll pass through the picturesque villages of Ha Phamotse and Ha Mokhoro, where you can explore the local culture and cuisine. Finally, you’ll reach Letseng la Terae, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

3 Letseng la Terae - Bokong River

Distance 239 km Driving time 3.6 h Pace: fast 71.6 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes of Lesotho! Start your adventure in the majestic Letseng la Terae, where you can admire the breathtaking views of the Maluti Mountains. Then, drive through the Tsehlanyane National Park, a protected area of pristine forests, and explore the diverse wildlife that inhabits it. As you make your way to Bokong River, take some time to enjoy the scenic road and admire the breathtaking views of the majestic mountains. For a more adventurous experience, a 4WD car is advisable. Along the way, you will find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. The entire trip is only 239 km long and will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey and explore the beauty of Lesotho!

4 Bokong River - Sehlabathebe N.P.

Distance 173 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: modest 44.9 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip that starts in Bokong River, Lesotho, and leads through Matebeng and ends in Sehlabathebe National Park. This 173 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, so make sure to pack a few snacks! It is recommended to use a 4WD car for this section, as some sections of the road are winding. Enjoy the scenic views as you drive along, and take note of some of the most interesting places to visit in each of these locations. In Bokong River, you can explore the Bokong Nature Reserve, home to many species of wildlife. In Matebeng, take a visit to the Mohale Dam, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. Finally, in Sehlabathebe National Park, you can explore the park’s many hiking trails and waterfalls. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.

5 Sehlabathebe N.P. - Sekake

Distance 127 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: modest 33.1 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Sehlabathebe National Park to Sekake! This 127 km drive takes around 3 hours and is best done in a 4WD car. Along the way, you will be able to admire the stunning scenery of the Lesotho countryside, so keep your eyes open! At Sehlabathebe National Park, you can explore the fascinating rock formations, the crystal clear streams, and the diverse wildlife. In Sekake, you can marvel at the ancient rock art and the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy the journey!

6 Sekake - Mohale's Hoek

Distance 171 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 51.2 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Sekake to Mohale's Hoek! This 171 km journey through the beautiful Lesotho landscape will take you less than 3 hours by car, so be sure to bring your camera and your sense of adventure! It is advisable to take a 4WD car for this section of the trip. Start your journey in Sekake and make sure to visit the Sekake Cave, located near the village. This cave is famous for its stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its underground lake. Afterwards, continue your journey to Mokhotlong, where you can explore the Thaba Putsoa National Park, which is known for its spectacular views. As you make your way to Mohale's Hoek, you must stop at the beautiful Maletsunyane Falls. This breathtaking waterfall is one of the main attractions in the area. Finally, you will reach your destination in Mohale's Hoek. Here, you can explore the Mohale Dam and the nearby villages. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

7 Mohale's Hoek - Qaba

Distance 59 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: modest 15.3 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
[detailsContainer]
Start your journey in Mohale's Hoek, Lesotho and drive through the breathtaking Gate of Paradise Pass. The 59 km drive takes less than 1 hour and requires a 4WD car due to the winding roads. Along the way, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the views. You'll also find a few charming villages and a few interesting places to visit. Once you reach Qaba, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the mountains. To make the most of your journey, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

8 Qaba - Maseru

Distance 71 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: fast 21.2 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Qaba-Maseru stage of your road trip! This 71km journey takes less than two hours of driving and is full of interesting places to visit. Starting in Qaba, you can take in the scenery of the Maluti Mountains, with the highest peak in Lesotho, Thabana Ntlenyana, looming in the background. The town of Qaba is also home to the Qaba Mission Church, a beautiful 19th century building with a lot of history. Heading north, you'll come across the town of Teya Teyaneng, known for its vibrant culture and the traditional Basotho blankets that are produced here. Further along the route, you'll find the town of Mafeteng, which is home to the Mafeteng District Museum and the Mafeteng Cultural Village, where you can learn more about the local culture and history. Finally, you'll reach Maseru, the capital of Lesotho. Here you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Basotho Cultural Village and the National Museum of Lesotho. You can also take a stroll through the city's bustling markets and enjoy the local cuisine. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

  Maseru

[detailsContainer]
The final destination of the Lesotho Road Trip is the capital city of Maseru. Situated in the foothills of the Maloti Mountains, Maseru is the largest city in Lesotho, with a population of around 227,000. It is the gateway to the rest of the country, and the perfect place to end your journey. Maseru is a vibrant and lively city, with plenty of attractions to explore. Take a stroll through the bustling, vibrant markets and discover traditional Basotho crafts and wares. At the Basotho Hat Museum, you can learn about the country’s rich history and culture. The museum also houses a collection of traditional Basotho hats, which are still worn by many locals today. Maseru is also home to the historic Maseru Bridge. Built in 1930, it is the longest bridge in Lesotho and spans the Caledon River. The bridge is an impressive sight to behold and a great vantage point to take in the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. If you’re visiting Maseru by air, the closest international airport is the Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU). From there, you can rent a car and drive around the beautiful countryside. At the end of an unforgettable road trip, Maseru is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Here, you can take in the city’s culture and history, explore its vibrant markets, and enjoy the stunning views of the Maloti Mountains. Maseru is the ideal destination for a memorable Lesotho Road Trip.

Lesotho Road Trip at a glance

Hopefully, the presented Lesotho Road Trip has become a superb inspiration for your future holidays.
We’ve given you a base that can be easily expanded with your own original trip ideas.
If car travel is a travel mode that you prefer, there are a number of vital road rules to follow and a bunch of elements to remember to ensure pleasant experiences. These tips will also become useful for tourists who opt for renting a vehicle or camper hire.
There are a number of road regulations to be kept in mind while travelling around Lesotho. Alcohol is best to be avoided at any expense while sightseeing in a car. The legal alcohol limit is extremely low and cannot exceed 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum speed limit, which is 40km/h, around the city streets may result in speeding offence. Never exceed the maximum allowed speed of 100km/h when travelling around non-build-up-areas. Exceeding 120km/h on motorways is penalised. In order to stay safe, it is best to drive with your headlights on at daytime and equip your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
The majority of travellers are also interested in the travel expenses of the whole road trip. Of course, depending on the needs of the travellers, the amount of money that you have to pay will vary. Take a look at the available budget options.
If you’d like to benefit from the cheapest option to cover the planned 1,073km while travelling around Lesotho, it can equal as much as 150 EUR. Economy accommodation options can cost travellers approximately 660 EUR. Holidaymakers who take advantage of this option will spend about 240 EUR on food and restaurants. If you also aim for the economy car hire option, you will pay around 450 EUR. Thus, going for car rental will increase the costs of the road trip from more or less 1,050 EUR to about 1,500 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 150 EUR to cover the planned mileage of the adventure. Cost amounting to 924 EUR can be expected by all holidayers who are looking for standard accommodation. Tourists can expect that the standard option in terms of food and restaurants will cost more or less 360 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental vehicle should expect a cost of roughly 1,350 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay around 2,822 EUR for the whole Lesotho Road Trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle hire will spend around 1,472 EUR.
The available premium option has been prepared with the most demanding holidayers in mind. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total approximately 4,127 EUR for drivers who are considering vehicle rental and 1,472 EUR for those who do not need a rental vehicle. Travellers who want to cover the road trip in a premium rental car should expect a cost of roughly 1,800 EUR. In the top standard option of the road trip, the cost of the fuel needed to cover all stages around Lesotho is around 263 EUR. Tourists should expect to pay more or less 1,584 EUR for accommodation and 480 EUR for food and restaurants if they opt for the highest standard of services.
Our road trip will also be excellent for all camper enthusiasts, as it can be easily adjusted to their needs. When it comes to this means of transport, you will pay up to roughly 2,250 EUR. Travellers will spend around 288 EUR on gasoline allowing to cover all stages of the trip. Travellers who are considering camper hire should expect to pay more or less 550 EUR for overnight stays and approximately 240 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs presents all the presented details in a straightforward manner.
The period between October and April is great to visit the part of Lesotho described in our adventure idea. There are multiple picturesque adventures that are available on our website if you’d like to see other of our road trip ideas. Hopefully, the great diversity of ideas will definitely cater to the needs of the most demanding travellers.

Facts for safer driving in Lesotho

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 100 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

Recommended trips

Sani Pass Scenic Drive Sani Pass Scenic Drive
Sani Pass Scenic Drive
Africa - Republic of South Africa
42 km 41 km/h 1 days scenic
Garden Route Road Trip Garden Route Road Trip
Garden Route Road Trip
Africa - Republic of South Africa
1,087 km 72 km/h 9 days roadtrip
Windhoek to Cape Town Road Trip Windhoek to Cape Town Road Trip
Windhoek to Cape Town Road Trip
Africa - Namibia
2,386 km 68 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Namaqua Land Road Trip Namaqua Land Road Trip
Namaqua Land Road Trip
Africa - Republic of South Africa
2,629 km 88 km/h 14 days roadtrip
King Nehale Gate Route King Nehale Gate Route
King Nehale Gate Route
Africa - Namibia
43 km 53 km/h 1 days scenic
Fish River Canyon Road Fish River Canyon Road
Fish River Canyon Road
Africa - Namibia
201 km 36 km/h 1 days scenic