Maletsunyane Falls: Lesotho's Majestic Plunge
Experience the awe-inspiring Maletsunyane Falls in Lesotho: a majestic waterfall, Basotho culture, and thrilling adventure in the 'Kingdom in the Sky'.
Maletsunyane Falls, near Semonkong, Lesotho, is a breathtaking 192-meter single-drop waterfall, one of Africa's highest. The falls plunge into a dramatic gorge, creating a misty 'place of smoke' and a thunderous echo steeped in local legend. It's a must-see for its natural beauty and adventure activities.
A brief summary to Maletsunyane Falls
- 43J2+PHW, Semonkong, LS
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during or just after the rainy season (March/April) for the most dramatic waterfall display.
- Engage a local guide for hikes to the falls to learn about the area's history and culture.
- Consider staying at Semonkong Lodge for convenient access to the falls and organized activities.
- Pack warm clothes, especially if visiting between April and October, as it can get cold.
- Be prepared for rough roads if driving yourself to Semonkong; a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Getting There
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Driving
From Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, the journey to Maletsunyane Falls near Semonkong is approximately 120 km and takes about 3 hours. Follow signs to Roma, where you can find the last petrol station before Semonkong. Continue towards Semonkong, where the tarmac road eventually turns into a gravel road with potholes. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. Once in Semonkong, follow signs to Maletsunyane Falls, about 9 km from the village. The entrance fee to the falls is approximately 100-130 LSL.
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Public Transport
From Maseru's central bus station, you can take a large bus or a shared taxi (minivan) to Semonkong. The bus leaves twice a day and takes about 4 hours, while shared taxis leave throughout the day and take around 3 hours. The bus fare is approximately 75 LSL , and a shared taxi costs around 126 LSL. From Semonkong, you can walk, hire a pony, or arrange a 4x4 ride to the falls with a local guide or Semonkong Lodge.
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