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Tsehlanyane National Park: Lesotho's Mountain Sanctuary

Discover Lesotho's natural beauty in the Maloti Mountains, home to rare forests, diverse flora, and stunning hiking trails.

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Tsehlanyane National Park, nestled in the Maloti Mountains of Lesotho, offers a unique high-altitude wilderness experience. It protects one of Lesotho's few remaining indigenous forests, diverse flora, and rugged terrain, making it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Tsehlanyane national park

Local tips

  • Pack warm clothing, especially if visiting during the winter months (April to August), as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the park's rugged terrain and well-maintained trails.
  • Bring your own food and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more immersive experience and to learn about the park's flora, fauna, and cultural significance.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for changing conditions, especially during the wet season (November to March).
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most common way to reach Tsehlanyane National Park is by car. From Maseru, take the A1 towards Butha-Buthe. Approximately 5 km southwest of Butha-Buthe, turn onto the signposted access road. Follow this 30 km tarred road, which parallels the Hlotse River, to the park entrance. Note that the A1 Hwy from Sani Pass to Ts'ehlanyane National Park is curvy, with lots of climbs and descents. Entrance fees are 50 LTL per person and 30 LTL per car. These fees are paid upon arrival and cover the duration of your visit.

  • Public Transport

    For adventurous travelers, public transport is an option. First, take a shared taxi from Maseru to Butha-Buthe. From Butha-Buthe, shared taxis run to villages en route to the park. Ask to be dropped off at the park gates or Maliba Lodge. Arrange transport onwards from Maliba Lodge. The cost of a shared taxi from Maseru to Butha-Buthe is approximately 80-100 LTL. The fare from Butha-Buthe to the park entrance will be around 30-50 LTL. Be prepared for a potentially long and unpredictable journey.

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Discover more about Tsehlanyane national park

Tsehlanyane National Park, located in the Leribe District of Lesotho, is a protected area encompassing over 5,600 hectares of rugged mountain terrain. As part of the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Area, it stands as a testament to Lesotho's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. The park's name, derived from the local term for berg bamboo (Thamnocalamus tessellatus), highlights its role as a crucial refuge for this Drakensberg endemic plant. The park's origin is linked to the construction of the Hlotse Tunnel as part of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. The access road to the tunnel, completed in 1991, paved the way for the park's establishment. Tsehlanyane National Park was officially established in 1993 to protect the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the region while promoting conservation and tourism. Ranging in altitude from 1,940 to 3,112 meters, the park showcases a dramatic landscape of steep mountains, rolling hills, and deep valleys. This altitudinal variation contributes to the diversity of habitat types found within its boundaries. Tsehlanyane is renowned for preserving one of Lesotho's last indigenous woodlands. These woodlands harbor a variety of rare undergrowth plants unique to this habitat. The park also encompasses a reasonable proportion of very rare mountain "fynbos" that does not occur anywhere else in the world and also recorded are in excess of 220 flowing plant species. While not known for large mammal populations, the park provides habitat for various small to medium-sized mammals, including the African wild cat, black-backed jackal, and porcupine. Birdlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot species like the Drakensberg rockjumper and Maloti sunbird. Visitors to Tsehlanyane National Park can explore its natural beauty through a network of hiking trails. These trails cater to different skill levels, from gentle walks along the Hlotse River to challenging ascents into the mountains. Popular trails include the Lower Trail to Black Pool, the Upper Trail to Black Pool, the Waterfall Trail, and the Litsumi Cave Trail. Horse riding and pony trekking are also popular ways to explore the park's rugged terrain. The park offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in Lesotho's mountain scenery.

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