Lesotho travel info
Electricity
The electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. The three-prong, round pin South African plug is used.
Language
Sesotho and English are the official languages of Lesotho. While Xhosa and Zulu are not official, they are spoken by minority groups in the country.
Money
The Lesotho loti (LSL) is the official currency of Lesotho and is divided into 100 lisente. It has the same value as the South African rand, which is also accepted as legal currency. Banks and exchange bureaus can be found in Maseru and most main towns.
Most major hotels, shops, restaurants, and travel agencies accept credit cards, though it's best for travellers to check with their card provider before visiting. ATMs in Lesotho generally accept international cards, but they can be unreliable, so it's wise to carry some cash as a backup. Google Pay is supported in Lesotho and may be used where contactless payments are accepted, but Apple Pay is not currently available.
Tipping
Tipping service staff, including tour guides and game rangers, is customary in Lesotho, with 10 to 15 percent being a common guideline.
Health
Lesotho's high altitude and mountain air don't usually cause health issues, but some visitors may experience mild altitude sickness. Taking it slow and staying hydrated can help.
Travellers should be up to date on routine vaccines such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. A yellow fever certificate is required if visitors are arriving from an affected country. Rabies vaccination may be advised for extended rural stays.
Medical care outside Maseru is limited, and many seek treatment in South Africa. Visitors should bring enough prescription medication with a doctor's note, and ensure their travel insurance includes emergency evacuation.
Safety
Lesotho is generally a welcoming and peaceful place to visit, but like many countries, it's important for visitors to stay aware of their surroundings, particularly in urban areas such as Maseru. Petty crime and occasional incidents such as theft or car break-ins do happen, and there have been some reports of more serious crimes, especially in the cities.
To stay safe, it's best to keep valuables out of sight, avoid walking alone at night or in quiet areas, and take care when driving, especially after dark or in rural regions. While demonstrations are not common, they can occur and are best avoided as a precaution.
Local customs
Politeness is very much appreciated in Lesotho, and it is always best to ask before taking pictures of places or people. It is customary to ask permission from the local village Headman or Chief before camping, and to inform him if spending any time within his village. Homosexuality is illegal so visitors should be cautious and discreet.
Doing business
Business in Lesotho generally reflects familiar international practices such as being punctual, sharing business cards, and showing respect for hosts. However, the pace is usually relaxed, and meetings may start later than planned. For attire, lightweight suits and ties are common and appropriate, especially in formal settings. Office hours typically run from around 8am to midday and then resume from about 2pm to 4.30pm or later, Monday to Friday. Saturdays are less predictable and best checked in advance.
Duty free
Travellers are generally allowed to bring in limited quantities of duty-free goods for personal use. Typical allowances may include tobacco products (such as cigarettes, cigars, or loose tobacco), alcoholic beverages, small amounts of perfume and eau de toilette, and gifts up to a set value.
Communications
The international dialling code for Lesotho is +266, and the outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Visitors can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones; WiFi is available in cafes, restaurants and hotels in cities.
Passport & Visa
Travellers to Lesotho should have a return or onward ticket, the required documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their stay. Visa-exempt visitors often receive short-term entry (typically up to 14 or 90 days), and if they wish to extend their visit, they must apply at the Visa Application Centre in Maseru before their current permit expires. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure remains a reliable recommendation, even though some sources cite a 90-day rule. Travellers should always check official government sites before traveling to ensure they're up to date with the current requirements.
Entry requirements
US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Lesotho. A visa is not required for stays up to 180 days, with an initial stay usually granted for 30 days.
British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival. A visa is not required for stays up to 14 days.
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date. A visa is not required for stays up to 14 days.
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival. A visa is not required for stays up to 14 days.
South African citizens must have a valid passport or South African ID card upon arrival. No visa is required for stays of less than three weeks.
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival. A visa is not required for stays up to 14 days.