Lesotho
Travel tips for Lesotho: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cash is essential. Cash dominates in Lesotho, and cards are mostly unreliable outside Maseru and major hotels. You must carry South African Rand (accepted 1:1) or local Loti for guesthouses, transport, and markets, especially in the rural highlands.
Try the food
- Maize Porridge (Papa): A stiff, filling cornmeal porridge that serves as the staple carbohydrate for most meals.
- Wild Spinach (Moroho): Finely chopped leafy greens sautéed with onions and sometimes tomatoes.
- Oxtail Stew: A rich, slow-cooked stew made with tender oxtail, root vegetables, and savory gravy.
Essentials
- Plugs
- Type M
- Voltage
- 220V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Left side
- Tap water
- Avoid — buy bottled
- Emergency
- 123 (Police), 121 (Ambulance), 122 (Fire)
- SIM tip
- Pick up a prepaid Vodacom or Econet SIM card at the airport or official stores in Maseru, ensuring you have your passport for registration.
Etiquette
Always use both hands, or support your right arm with your left hand, when giving or receiving items to show respect.