Malealea
Close to the ground.
GPS: S 29 49.734 E 027 35.976 | elevation 1,821 m/5,974 ft
Southern Lesotho is a vast expanse of rural farmland and grassy rolling hills that is less developed than northern Lesotho. Although there are a handful of small commercial centers that dot the border, they seem more economically linked with towns in neighboring South Africa than with the rest of Lesotho. This is the perfect region to jump on a pony or set out on foot and trek to remote villages where you can experience the traditional way of life that many people in Lesotho still lead.
Malealea is a small mountain village in the southwestern part of the country. Few visitors would head to Malealea if it weren’t for the century-old, former trading post-turned-lodge that has become one of the country’s top attractions. The Malealea Lodge has integrated and involved the local community in its development, and owners have in turn established the Malealea Development Trust to support projects within the community.
Pony Treks
Pony Treks are a popular way of getting around in the mountains. Guided day trips can include San rock art visits, crossing rivers, climbing waterfalls and meeting with villagers. On an overnight trek, you can ride to a mountain village and spend the night in a traditional village hut. Longer multiday treks can also be arranged.
Guided Hiking
Guided Hiking is a good option if you want to visit popular destinations such as Pitseng Canyon with a local expert, or experience more secret spots like a calm rock pool or breathtaking overhang.
Sangoma Visits
Sangoma Visits include a trek into a local village to meet with the traditional healer, where you can get questions answered about your health or life in general and receive traditional herbal remedies.
Malealea Lodge
Malealea Lodge is a quality lodge that is well integrated with the community and serves as the single base for activities and accommodation in Malealea. There is a farmhouse, numerous huts, and en suite rondavels spread throughout the premises. Electricity is generator-powered and is usually only on between 6pm-10pm. Breakfast and lunch are available, and hearty meals are cooked up at the lodge for dinner every night, although self-catering facilities are also available. The Malealea band and Malealea choir perform outside for the lodge guests most nights, and there is a separate bar that can get pretty lively in the evenings.
Malealea Lodge
Malealea Lodge is a quality lodge that is well integrated with the community and serves as the single base for activities and accommodation in Malealea. There is a farmhouse, numerous huts, and en suite rondavels spread throughout the premises. Electricity is generator-powered and is usually only on between 6pm-10pm. Breakfast and lunch are available, and hearty meals are cooked up at the lodge for dinner every night, although self-catering facilities are also available. The Malealea band and Malealea choir perform outside for the lodge guests most nights, and there is a separate bar that can get pretty lively in the evenings.