A little less than 100 kms from the capital, the region of Malealea is the ideal place for a little rest avoiding hours on dented tracks. It is also the most famous and the most known in Lesotho. Most of the tourists are there including the inhabitants of the tumultuous Johannesburg in South Africa, who like to relax there.
The landscapes and panoramas are very beautiful as everywhere in Lesotho. But here the horizons go as far as the eye can see give an extra dimension of magnitude. Not to spoil anything the atmosphere is peaceful. It is also possible to make some very beautiful hikes. Those leading to the Botsoela waterfall or the rock paintings of the Bushmen are particularly popular.
Advice:
- When to go to Lesotho? The most favorable periods are undoubtedly spring (October-November) or autumn (April-May). In summer (December-March), thunderstorms can be very violent and floods are frequent, and in winter (June-September), the snow makes some roads impassables.
- A 4x4 vehicle is essential if you want to explore a high mountain – a SUV will not be convenient on some sections of the road. In every season, the traffic conditions are random, the GPS dubious and the signs are rather rare. A good road map is therefore necessary.
- ATM’s exist only in Maseru and in some big villages… Beware, the maloti, the national currency, is not convertible out of Lesotho, even in South Africa. Better not to change too much money, or even prefer the South African rand, which are willingly accepted everywhere (a maloti is equivalent to a rand)
South Africa, the 'rainbow' nation.
South Africa is so diverse you feel like you are visiting several countries in one trip!
With grandiose and various landscapes (mountains, « bush », beaches, forests, plains, desert), a pleasant climate in all seasons, an abundant and diversified fauna and flora including the “Big Five”, a population with the most composite ethnic groups, South Africa accumulates important natural wealth. Also note among its assets: quality of the hotel sector, services, road network, means of transport, rich and varied gastronomy, excellent wines, favourable exchange rates, 21 national parks and many private reserves, a multitude of activity throughout the country…
When to go?
South Africa has this peculiarity of presenting a wide variety of climates: Mediterranean, subtropical or temperate depending on the region with a high rate of sunshine everywhere (watch out for sunburn!)
South Africa can be visited all year round with more favourable periods depending on interests:
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June, July and August (South African winter) for animals and therefore preferably the North of the country.
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September and October: best times for flowers (Namaqualand) but very good for game drives as well.
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From November to March (South African summer): best time to enjoy the South and East of the country, beaches of the Cape and the Indian Ocean. The Garden Route is particularly appreciated in February: the weather is nice; the temperature of the water is pleasant.
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April and May: very pleasant autumn with always nice days in Cape Town and the resumption of the animal season.
Formalities:
The passport must include two blank pages and still be valid for 30 days after the expected date of exit from South Africa.
French nationals are exempted from prior visas. A 90-day residence permit will be issued at the border on entry into South African territory.
For other nationalities, inquire on a case-by-case basis with the competent authorities of their country of origin.
For any minor child: a multilingual extract of birth certificate (or an unabridged birth certificate translated into English - certified translation) is required to enter and leave South Africa (in the case of a child traveling with his 2 parents). Please consult the official sites for more information about all the requested documents according to your case.
Health:
No vaccinations are required for entry into South Africa. However, it is advisable to check the updating of your usual reminders and vaccinations as for any country.
Anti-malarial treatment is recommended (see your doctor).
Currency:
The Rand is the official currency of South Africa (symbol: ZAR). Credit cards are accepted everywhere and distributors are easily available for cash withdrawal. Travellers’ checks in euros are also accepted in banks and some hotels.