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Bokong Nature Reserve: Highlands Majesty

Discover Lesotho's highlands at Bokong Nature Reserve: breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the mesmerizing Lepaqoa Waterfall.

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Bokong Nature Reserve, nestled in the Lesotho Highlands, offers stunning vistas, unique Afro-alpine wetlands, and the dramatic Lepaqoa Waterfall, which often freezes into a stunning ice column in winter. It's a haven for hikers and birdwatchers seeking a tranquil escape.

A brief summary to Bokong Nature Reserve

  • MF8J+3HV, Bokong, LS

Local tips

  • Pack for unpredictable weather; high-altitude areas can experience sudden changes.
  • Bring your own food and drinks, as options within the reserve are limited.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for hiking, as they can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety.
  • Visit during the dry season (May to September) for the best hiking conditions.
  • Don't forget your passport if you plan to hike to Ts'ehlanyane National Park, as it may involve crossing borders.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Maseru, take a taxi or bus to Hlotse (Leribe). From Hlotse, take a minibus taxi towards Katse Dam. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Bokong Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, which is located along the A25, near the Mafika Lisiu Pass. The total journey takes approximately 3 hours. Public transport costs approximately 50-80 Maloti.

  • Driving

    From Maseru, follow the A1 north towards Butha-Buthe. Turn southeast onto the A25 to Katse. The Bokong Nature Reserve is located off the A25, near the Mafika Lisiu Pass. The drive is approximately 150km and takes around 3 hours. Parking is available at the Visitor Centre for a fee of 20 Maloti.

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Discover more about Bokong Nature Reserve

Bokong Nature Reserve, situated high in the Lesotho Highlands, is a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Bisected by the A25 highway between Leribe and Katse Dam, this scenic reserve spans altitudes of 2,800 to 3,200 meters. The landscape features Afro-alpine wetlands, montane grasslands, heathland, and boulder beds. The reserve's highlight is the Lepaqoa Waterfall, which tumbles over a 60-meter cliff in a horseshoe shape. During winter, it often freezes into a breathtaking column of ice, creating a surreal spectacle. The visitor center, perched on a cliff overlooking the Lepaqoa Valley, provides panoramic views and informative exhibits about the region's ecology, geology, and paleontology. Bokong is a haven for hikers, offering trails for all skill levels. A short, relatively flat 1.5km footpath leads from the visitor center to a viewpoint above the Lepaqoa Falls. For more adventurous hikers, a two- to three-day, 32km hike to Ts'ehlanyane National Park traverses the alpine plateau known as the "Roof of Africa". Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot the endangered Cape vulture and other endemic species, such as the Drakensberg rockjumper and grey-winged francolin. The reserve is also home to the grey rhebok, a medium-sized antelope easily identified by its fluffy white tail. Camping is permitted throughout the reserve, and there are two stone-and-thatch rondavels (traditional houses) available near the falls.

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