Lesotho Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Lesotho.
Healthcare System
Lesotho's healthcare system is under-resourced with limited facilities, especially outside Maseru. The country has a mix of public hospitals, private clinics, and mission hospitals. Queen Mamohato Memorial Hospital in Maseru is the main referral hospital, but facilities and supplies are often inadequate by international standards.
Hospitals
Queen Mamohato Memorial Hospital in Maseru is the primary facility for tourists. Several private clinics in Maseru offer better quality care, including Tšepong Private Hospital. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Bloemfontein or Johannesburg in South Africa is often necessary and can cost thousands of dollars.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are available in Maseru and larger towns, but stock can be limited. Common medications may not always be available, and rural areas have very limited access. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original containers with prescriptions. Over-the-counter medications are limited compared to Western countries.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and emergency evacuation is absolutely essential. Medical evacuation to South Africa can cost $10,000-$50,000 or more. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude activities if trekking.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a comprehensive first aid kit and all prescription medications you might need for your entire trip
- Carry copies of prescriptions and medical records
- Know your blood type and any allergies
- Consider registering with your embassy upon arrival for emergency assistance
- Have contact information for medical evacuation services
- Water quality is poor; drink only bottled or purified water
- Altitude sickness is common given Lesotho's elevation (lowest point is 1,400m); ascend gradually and stay hydrated
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles are the most common crimes affecting tourists, particularly in Maseru. Thieves often target distracted tourists in crowded areas, markets, and public transportation.
While less common than petty crime, armed robbery, carjacking, and mugging do occur, particularly after dark. Most violent crime targets locals rather than tourists, but visitors can be opportunistic targets.
Road conditions are poor with many unpaved roads, steep mountain passes, and hazards like livestock and pedestrians. Driving standards are erratic, and accidents are common. Many roads become impassable in winter or after rain.
Lesotho experiences periodic political instability with occasional demonstrations and strikes that can turn violent. These primarily affect Maseru but can disrupt travel and services.
Lesotho is the only country entirely above 1,000 meters elevation, with much of it above 2,000 meters. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, causing headaches, nausea, and in severe cases, life-threatening conditions.
Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Winter (May-August) brings snow, ice, and temperatures well below freezing. Summer brings intense sun and sudden thunderstorms. Inadequate preparation can lead to hypothermia or heat-related illness.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals approach tourists offering unofficial guide services at attractions or pony trekking sites, often overcharging or providing poor service. Some may lead tourists to isolated areas.
Street money changers offer favorable rates but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists or provide counterfeit notes. This is particularly common at border crossings.
Unlicensed taxi drivers quote inflated prices to tourists or take unnecessarily long routes. Some may claim the meter is broken.
One person distracts you (asking for directions, spilling something on you, or creating a commotion) while an accomplice steals your belongings.
Fake accommodation listings online or individuals claiming to represent hotels/lodges who take deposits for non-existent rooms.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy upon arrival
- Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Learn basic Sesotho phrases; English is widely spoken in towns but less so in rural areas
- Carry a charged mobile phone, but note coverage is limited in remote areas
- Keep emergency cash in multiple locations
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in rural areas
Transportation Safety
- Rent a 4x4 vehicle if traveling outside Maseru; many roads are impassable for regular vehicles
- Avoid driving at night due to poor road conditions, lack of lighting, and livestock on roads
- Fill up with fuel whenever possible; stations are sparse in rural areas
- Carry spare tires, tools, and emergency supplies including water and food
- Use only registered taxis; ask your hotel to arrange transport
- Be extremely cautious on mountain passes, especially Sani Pass
- Check weather and road conditions before setting out
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodation with good security, especially in Maseru
- Use hotel safes for valuables and passports
- Keep doors and windows locked, even when inside
- Check that accommodation has adequate heating for winter visits
- Book in advance during peak season (December-January)
- Verify bookings directly with the property
Health and Hygiene
- Drink only bottled or purified water; tap water is not safe
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Eat at established restaurants; be cautious with street food
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Lesotho has high HIV/AIDS prevalence; take appropriate precautions
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date; consider hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies vaccines
- Bring altitude sickness medication if you're susceptible
- Use insect repellent; malaria is not present but other insect-borne diseases exist
Money and Valuables
- Both Lesotho loti (LSL) and South African rand (ZAR) are accepted; they're at 1:1 parity
- ATMs are available in Maseru and larger towns but can be unreliable; carry sufficient cash
- Credit cards are accepted in major hotels but rarely elsewhere
- Don't display large amounts of cash in public
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Keep valuables out of sight, especially in vehicles
- Carry only what you need for the day
Cultural Sensitivity
- Ask permission before photographing people; many expect a small payment
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting villages
- Remove shoes when entering someone's home
- Use your right hand when giving or receiving items
- Greet people appropriately; the Basotho are formal and polite
- Don't point at people; it's considered rude
- Respect traditional customs and ceremonies if you're privileged to witness them
Outdoor Activities
- Hire experienced local guides for trekking and pony trekking
- Don't trek alone in remote areas
- Inform someone of your plans and expected return time
- Carry adequate water, food, and emergency supplies
- Pack for all weather conditions; temperatures can drop rapidly
- Be aware of altitude; allow time to acclimatize
- Start activities early to avoid afternoon storms in summer
- Carry a whistle and flashlight for emergencies
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers generally report feeling safe in Lesotho, particularly compared to some neighboring countries. The Basotho people are typically respectful and welcoming. However, solo women travelers should take standard precautions, particularly in urban areas and after dark. Harassment is less common than in many African countries but can occur. Women hold relatively strong positions in Basotho society, which contributes to a more respectful environment.
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas; long skirts or pants and covered shoulders are appropriate
- Avoid walking alone after dark; use trusted transportation
- Book accommodation in reputable, well-reviewed establishments
- Be firm but polite if you receive unwanted attention; saying you're meeting your husband often helps
- Consider joining group tours for activities in remote areas
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Keep your phone charged and have emergency contacts readily available
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, especially in unfamiliar settings
- When using taxis, consider sharing the front seat to avoid being cornered
- Connect with other travelers or expat communities for advice and companionship
- Be aware that solo women travelers are less common in rural areas and may attract attention
- Carry a wedding ring or mention a husband even if single; this can deter unwanted advances
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Lesotho, but there are no specific legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Same-sex marriage is not recognized.
- Exercise discretion regarding sexual orientation and gender identity
- Avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Be aware that discussing LGBTQ+ topics may make locals uncomfortable
- Research accommodation carefully; some may not be welcoming
- Consider staying in international hotel chains or well-reviewed guesthouses
- Connect with LGBTQ+ travel communities online before visiting for current advice
- Be prepared for questions about marital status; consider how you'll respond
- Rural areas are more conservative than Maseru
- Don't expect to find LGBTQ+-specific venues or events
- Be cautious about sharing personal information with strangers
- Have your embassy's contact information readily available
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for visiting Lesotho and should be considered non-negotiable. The country's limited healthcare facilities mean that serious medical issues require expensive evacuation to South Africa, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, the challenging terrain, poor road conditions, and weather-related risks increase the likelihood of accidents or travel disruptions. Without adequate insurance, you could face catastrophic financial consequences from a medical emergency or evacuation.
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