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Getting to Lesotho
Airports:
Moshoeshoe I International Airport
Moshoeshoe I International Airport (IATA: MSU, ICAO: FXMM) is the primary gateway to Lesotho, serving as the main international airport for the capital city, Maseru. Located in Mazenod, approximately 18 kilometres southeast of downtown Maseru, the airport is named after King Moshoeshoe I, the founder and first monarch of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Opened in 1974, the airport has undergone several renovations, including the construction of a new terminal building in 2010 to replace the outdated original structure.
The airport features two asphalt runways: Runway 04/22, which is 3,200 meters (10,498 feet) long, and Runway 11/29, measuring 1,010 meters (3,314 feet). The terminal building spans a total floor area of 17,000 square meters and is equipped to handle up to 1.5 million passengers per year. It includes 20 check-in counters, 4 security checkpoints, and 6 departure gates. Additionally, the airport has 2 VIP lounges and 10 retail outlets, including restaurants and cafes. The terminal is designed for efficient passenger flow, with clear signage and modern amenities. The airport operates with a slot capacity of 10 aircraft movements per hour, ensuring smooth and timely operations for both domestic and international flights.
In recent years, the government of Lesotho has undertaken efforts to upgrade and expand the airport’s facilities to meet international standards. These improvements include plans to extend the main runway by 1,000 meters to accommodate larger aircraft and enhance cargo handling capabilities. The airport’s master plan also envisions the development of commercial facilities such as hotels, conference centres, and shopping malls to boost tourism and economic activity in the region.
For travelers, Moshoeshoe I International Airport offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. Passengers can enjoy various dining options, duty-free shopping, and access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Transportation options include car rental services, taxis, and shuttle buses, providing convenient access to Maseru and other parts of Lesotho.
Overall, Moshoeshoe I International Airport plays a crucial role in connecting Lesotho to the rest of the world, facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. With ongoing improvements and strategic planning, the airport is poised to enhance its services and contribute to the nation’s development.
Visa Requirements
Lesotho offers a streamlined visa policy to facilitate travel for international visitors. Citizens of
several countries, including South Africa, are exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90
days. For travelers from countries not on the visa-exempt list, Lesotho provides an e-Visa
system, allowing applicants to apply online for various visa types, including tourist, business,
student, and diplomatic visas. The e-Visa process typically takes up to 72 hours, with single-
entry visas valid for 44 days and multiple-entry visas valid for 180 days.
To apply for a Lesotho visa, applicants should complete the online application form, ensuring
all required documentation is prepared as per the provided checklist. After submitting the
application, an appointment date and time must be selected. Applicants are expected to
appear at the application centre on the scheduled date, bringing along their appointment
letter, printed application form, proof of payment, supporting documents, and a valid
passport.
It’s important to note that the e-Visa application system is currently suspended. In the interim,
applicants are advised to contact the Lesotho Ministry of Home A^airs via email at VISA-
Applications.Immigration@gov.ls for guidance on the visa application process.
Currency and Foreign Exchange
Lesotho’s official currency is the Loti (plural: maloti), abbreviated as LSL. Each loti is
subdivided into 100 lisente (singular: sente). The loti is pegged at par to the South African Rand
(ZAR) through the common monetary area agreement., and both currencies are accepted as
legal tender within Lesotho. This arrangement facilitates seamless trade and economic
integration with neighbouring countries.
There are several Commercial banks operating in Lesotho providing a range of financial
services in the country. These include both Subsidiaries of Southern banks and others.
Car Hire
Renting a vehicle in Lesotho - or from neighbouring South Africa - offers visitors the flexibility and freedom to discover the Kingdom in the Sky at their own pace. Major international brands like Avis, Europcar, and Bluu operate at Moshoeshoe I International Airport and in Maseru city. These agencies often provide compact cars, SUVs, and even 4×4 vehicles, the latter being highly recommended for highland routes like Sani Pass or off-road reserves.
Visitors should remember that a valid full domestic driver's license - often supplemented by an International Driving Permit (IDP) if the license isn't in English - is required to collect a rental car. Additional considerations include adhering to local left-hand driving rules, ensuring the vehicle has cross-border authorization (especially if entering from South Africa), and opting for a 4×4 for rugged terrain.
Car Hire companies in Lesotho
Avis Lesotho
Avis operates conveniently in Maseru with two main locations: inside Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU) and in the downtown Maseru area. The airport branch is just steps from baggage claim, making it ideal for travelers arriving by air.
For bookings and enquiries, visitors can call the national call centre at +266-22-350328 or reach the international Reservations Desk in South Africa at +27-11-387-8431, and emails can be directed to customerservice@avis.co.za.
Operating hours at the airport location are Monday to Friday 07:00–17:00, and weekends 10:00–16:00, providing flexibility for travellers.
Lesotho observes South Africa Standard Time (SAST) year-round, which is UTC +2 hours. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so clocks remain constant throughout the year.
STANDARD LESOTHO BANK
Lesotho’s largest commercial bank, Standard Lesotho Bank is part of South Africa’s Standard Bank Group. Established in 1995, it offers a full range of services — from personal and SME banking to corporate and investment solutions. With a nationwide presence of around 18–19 branches, 80+ ATMs, and extensive digital platforms, it’s well-equipped to support both locals and travelers.
- Address: Corner Kingsway Street & Parliament Road, Maseru, Lesotho
- Telephone numbers: +266-2224-1000
- E-mail Address: To be advised
- Website: www.fnb.co.ls
FIRST NATIONAL BANK (FNB) LESOTHO
- Address: Corner Kingsway Street & Parliament Road, Maseru, Lesotho
- Telephone numbers: +266-2224-1000
- E-mail Address: To be advised
- Website: www.fnb.co.ls
NEDBANK LESOTHO
- Address: 115-117 GriSith Hill, Kingsway Street, Maseru, Lesotho
- Telephone numbers: +266-2228-2100
- E-mail Address: To be advised
- Website: www.nedbank.co.ls
POSTBANK LESOTHO
- Address: Mafike House, Kingsway Street, Maseru, Lesotho
- Telephone numbers: +266-2231-7842
- E-mail Address: www.@lpb.co.ls
- Website: www.lpb.co.ls
INTERCHANGE
- Address: ShopUG34, Pioneer Mall, Maseru, Lesotho
- Telephone numbers: +266-2232-4296
- E-mail Address: sales@interchangelesotho.co.za
- Website: www.interchangefx.com
Land Borders
Part of the global Interchange FX network, this foreign-exchange service specializes in
traveler needs. With bright orange locations in airports, malls, and tourist hotspots across Lesotho, it offers competitive cash currency exchange, ATM cash advances
| Border Post | Operating Hours | Nearest South African Town |
|---|---|---|
| Maseru Bridge | 24 Hours | Ladybrand, Free State |
| Maputsoe Bridge | 24 Hours | Ficksburg, Free State |
| Caledonspoort | 06:00 - 22:00 | Fouriesburg, Free State |
| Van Rooyen's Gate | 06:00 - 22:00 | Wepener, Free State |
| Peka Bridge | 08:00 - 16:00 | Ficksburg, Free State |
| Sani Pass | 06:00 - 22:00 | Himeville, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Qacha's Nek | 06:00 - 22:00 | Matatiele, Eastern Cape |
| Tele Bridge | 06:00 - 22:00 | Sterkspruit, Eastern Cape |
| Makhaleng Bridge | 08:00 - 16:00 | Zastron, Free State |
| Sepapus Gate | 08:00 - 16:00 | Wepener, Free State |
Lesotho Tourism Development Corpora5on
The Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) is a government-owned entity established in 2001 under the Ministry of Tourism, Environment & Culture. Its core mission is to promote Lesotho as “High‑Mountain Africa” by developing tourism infrastructure, enhancing community capacity, and elevating destination appeal through strategic marketing campaigns. LTDC manages visitor centres – including a flagship Tourist Information Centre in Maseru CBD – supports heritage and adventure sites such as Thaba Bosiu, Maletsunyane Falls, Afri-ski Mountain Resort, and dams that offer water sports. It also oversees branded tourism routes like the Maloti–Drakensberg Route, coordinates national festivals such as the Roof of Africa rally, and works closely with operators to maintain quality via grading systems and licensing programs
Guided by its National Tourism Master Plan, LTDC focuses on sustainable growth – strengthening infrastructure, diversifying experiences, and fostering community-led tourism across Lesotho’s seven districts. It promotes eco-tourism through group training, market research, and joint‑marketing with regional partners. Headquartered at Linare & Parliament Road, Maseru, the LTDC can be contacted at +266 2231 2238 or ltdc@ltdc.org.ls for visitor enquiries, partnerships, or detailed tourism information.”
Suggested Itineraries
Plan your trip with curated itineraries tailored to different travel interests:
Adventure Seekers: A 5-day itinerary featuring Afri-ski, hiking in Ts'ehlanyane, and pony trekking to Thaba Bosiu
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Adventure Seekers: A 5-day itinerary featuring Afri-ski, hiking in Ts'ehlanyane, and pony trekking to Thaba Bosiu
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Nature Lovers: A 7-day journey visiting Sehlabathebe National Park, Maletsunyane Falls, and Bokong Nature Reserve
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishin software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
