Bokong river source
Bokong River Source: Lesotho's Highland Gem
Bokong Nature Reserve: Highlands Haven
Discover Lesotho's highlands at Bokong Nature Reserve: breathtaking views, unique wildlife, and the stunning Lepaqoa Waterfall.
Bokong Nature Reserve, nestled in the Lesotho Highlands, offers stunning vistas, hiking trails, and the impressive Lepaqoa Waterfall, which often freezes into a dramatic ice column in winter. This hiker-friendly reserve is one of the highest in Africa, boasting diverse flora and fauna.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Bokong Nature Reserve
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
WCJG+7C6, LS
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Getting There
Driving
From Maseru, take the A1 highway northeast towards Hlotse. Continue to the A25 to Katse. The drive is approximately 150km and takes about 3 hours. The reserve entrance is signposted to the left off the highway, past the Mafika Lisiu Pass. Parking is available at the visitor center for M20.
Public Transport
From Maseru, take a taxi or bus to Hlotse. Then, take public transport towards Katse Dam; any transport going to Katse Dam can drop you at the Visitors' Centre, which is right alongside the A25. The bus between Leribe and Katse costs M35. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the visitor center.
Local tips
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Bring warm clothing, as the reserve sits at a high altitude and can get cold, especially at night.
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Consider hiring a local guide, as the weather can be unpredictable.
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Pack your own food and drinks, as options within the reserve are limited.
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Keep an eye out for the unique birdlife, including the bearded vulture and Drakensberg rockjumper.
Discover more about Bokong Nature Reserve
Bokong Nature Reserve, located in the Lesotho Highlands, is a scenic and hiker-friendly destination. Bisected by the A25 highway between Leribe and Katse Dam, this lofty reserve spans altitudes of 2,800 to 3,200 meters. Its highlight is the Lepaqoa Waterfall, which tumbles over a 60-meter cliff and often freezes in winter.
The reserve features Afro-alpine wetlands, montane grasslands, and heathland boulder beds. It's an excellent place to spot the bearded vulture and other bird species endemic to the Afro-alpine zone. The grey rhebok, a medium-sized antelope, is also frequently seen. Visitors can explore the area on foot via well-maintained trails suitable for various fitness levels.
The visitor center, perched on a cliff overlooking the Lepaqoa Valley, offers interpretive displays about the ecology, geology, and paleontology of the Lesotho Highlands. From the center, a 1.5km footpath leads to a viewpoint above the waterfall. For longer excursions, a two- to three-day hike to Ts'ehlanyane National Park is also an option. Camping is permitted, and there are two stone-and-thatch rondavels near the falls.
A brief summary to Bokong Nature Reserve
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