A view of Maseru, the capital of The Kingdom of Lesotho, surrounded by mountainous terrain.
Image: Tatenda Mapigoti/Unsplash
In a recent remark, US President Donald Trump quipped that Lesotho is a country "nobody has ever heard of," as he justified sweeping cuts to foreign aid.
Despite such dismissive comments, the Kingdom of Lesotho, nestled within the mountainous terrain of Southern Africa, boasts a rich tapestry of culture, natural beauty and unique geographical distinctions that are well worth exploring.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and high altitude, Lesotho is aptly nicknamed "The Kingdom in the Sky." This landlocked nation is an enclave of South Africa, making it the largest sovereign enclave in the world outside the Italian Peninsula.
While the Sotho ethnic group or Basotho, constitutes an impressive 99.7% of the country's population, their history and customs add a rich layer to Lesotho's identity. With Sesotho as the native tongue alongside English, Lesotho embodies a vibrant cultural heritage, where the very name translates to "land of the Sesotho speakers."
For those who are eager to visit, here are five remarkable attributes of Lesotho that are deserving of attention:
The highest pub in Africa
At the Sani Mountain Lodge, located at an elevation of 2,874 m (9,429 ft) in Sani Pass, visitors can enjoy a drink while overlooking the stunning vistas. This pub straddles the border between Lesotho and South Africa, allowing patrons to sip their beverages above the clouds, a truly unique experience.
Water and diamonds
Lesotho is blessed with abundant water resources and rich diamond deposits. With its numerous mountain streams, the country is nearly self-sufficient in electricity and sells both water and energy to neighbouring South Africa, earning millions each year from these resources.
The only ski resort in Southern Africa
Afriski Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities in winter, making Lesotho a one-of-a-kind destination for winter sports enthusiasts in the region.
Southern Africa’s highest single drop waterfall
Maletsunyane Falls is a stunning natural wonder and holds the title of the highest single-drop waterfall in Southern Africa. The impressive sight draws adventurous visitors for activities such as abseiling and hiking in the area.
A treasure trove of fossils
Lesotho is a hotspot for paleontologists, known for one of the largest dinosaur footprints in the world. This rich area of prehistoric discovery includes numerous fossils and bones, showcasing the deep history embedded in Lesotho’s landscapes.
As the world evolves and the importance of global interconnectivity grows, it is essential to shine a light on hidden gems like Lesotho. No matter if one approaches it with curiosity sparked by a flippant comment or because of its unique offerings, the Kingdom deserves recognition and appreciation far beyond its geographical obscurity.
* This list was sourced from World Atlas