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Lesotho sits surrounded entirely by South Africa. But it’s not enough to assume the best time to visit South Africa is also the best time to visit Lesotho. This mountainous realm – one of Africa’s few remaining national monarchies – isn’t called the ‘kingdom of the sky’ for nothing. Soaring 1,000 metres above sea level, South Africa’s year-round climate can be replaced with bitter winters. So trust me when I say you’re going to want to know the best time to visit Lesotho.
Summer months in Lesotho
The first thing to point out is that Lesotho’s summer months run from October to April. The summer in Lesotho tends to be warm, but can also be wet.
January and February are the peak summer months when it comes to climate. They see the country’s highest temperatures (15-35°C) and record the largest volumes of rain.
Temperatures vary so widely not only between night and day, but also due to altitude. Valley floors can bask in those mid-thirties Celsius temperatures, while high peaks and crags can be particularly chill.
A great way to experience this rapid difference is by traversing the Sani Pass from Underberg (South Africa). It’s one of my top things to do in Lesotho too.
Either side of January and February (October, November, March and April) Lesotho’s summer is more like the summer weather you might expect from southern Africa. Days tend to be sunny and pleasant, making these months best for hiking in Lesotho.
Winter months in Lesotho
The winter months in Lesotho span from May to the end of September. If you visit Lesotho during the winter months, be prepared for snow. There’s a reason Lesotho has a ski resort – Afriski. July, August and September are best for skiing.
Visiting in May, I got caught up in a snowstorm on the mountain pass between Mokhotlong and the New Oxbow Lodge very close to Afriski. It not only shut the road for several hours, but was a pretty scary time which only ended when the minibus I was in was hauled to freedom by a tractor.
You’ll need to be prepared for this weather, meaning lots of layers, thick socks, and waterproofs. A winter sleeping bag isn’t the worst idea in the world either. Many hotels and guesthouses in Lesotho get cold as temperatures plummet overnight, even with heating.
The best months to go on safari in Lesotho
I think the best months to go to safari in Lesotho are those of late summer. In other words, March and April should be earmarked for exploring Lesotho’s top national parks.
Most of the rain has ended by then, leaving Lesotho lush and green from Sehlabathebe National Park to Liphofung Nature Reserve.
When is the best time to visit Lesotho
The best time to visit Lesotho for most travellers is going to be March and April. However, for skiing, make sure you’re hitting the slopes between July and September.
