Things to Do in Lesotho in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Lesotho
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak summer season with long daylight hours (sunrise 5:15am, sunset 7:30pm) perfect for mountain activities
- Best hiking weather - warm days allow early morning starts at 4am for summit attempts without freezing temperatures
- Wildflower season in full bloom across the highlands - red-hot pokers, wild irises, and endemic spiral aloes create spectacular mountain meadows
- Crystal clear air after thunderstorms provides exceptional photography conditions and visibility for 50+ km (31+ miles) mountain views
Considerations
- Daily afternoon thunderstorms between 2-5pm make outdoor activities risky - lightning strikes are common on exposed ridges and peaks
- Peak tourist season means pony trekking routes book out 3-4 weeks ahead and accommodation prices increase 40-60% from shoulder season rates
- Extreme UV exposure at altitude (most of country above 1,800m/5,900ft) causes severe sunburn within 20 minutes without protection
Best Activities in December
Sani Pass 4x4 Ascents to Highest Pub
December's clear summer weather provides perfect conditions for the dramatic 2,876m (9,436ft) ascent up Africa's most challenging mountain pass. Morning departures (7am start) avoid afternoon storms and offer spectacular views across the Drakensberg escarpment. The road is in best condition after summer maintenance, and you can actually see South Africa's highest pub at the top instead of being shrouded in winter mist.
Malealea Village Pony Trekking
December's long daylight hours and warm weather create ideal conditions for multi-day pony treks through traditional Basotho villages. The summer landscape is emerald green, waterfalls are at full flow, and you can comfortably camp overnight without winter's sub-zero temperatures. Local guides can start treks at 6am to cover maximum distance before afternoon thunderstorms.
Katse Dam Scenic Drives
Africa's second-largest double-arch dam is surrounded by summer wildflower displays that peak in December. The highland roads offer exceptional visibility after morning thunderstorms clear the air, and the dam is at capacity creating impressive spillway displays. December's warmth makes the 2,000m+ (6,560ft+) altitude comfortable for walking the dam wall and visitor center tours.
Thaba Bosiu Cultural Experiences
December's summer weather makes exploring this flat-topped mountain fortress comfortable, with traditional storytelling sessions held outdoors under clear evening skies. The site of King Moshoeshoe I's stronghold comes alive with cultural performances that take advantage of long daylight hours extending programs until 8pm. Summer grass growth makes the symbolic 'mountain at night' legend more visually apparent.
Sehlabathebe National Park Alpine Hiking
December transforms this remote park into an alpine wonderland with wildflower meadows, flowing streams, and comfortable camping temperatures. San rock art sites are accessible without winter snow blocking trails, and the park's unique bearded vulture population is most active during summer thermals. At 2,400m+ (7,874ft+) altitude, December days are warm enough for comfortable hiking while nights remain crisp.
December Events & Festivals
Morija Arts & Cultural Festival
Southern Africa's premier arts festival transforms this historic mission town into a creative hub with international musicians, traditional Basotho performances, literature readings, and craft exhibitions. The outdoor venues take full advantage of December's long summer evenings.