Good Time to Visit

Weather

Lesotho has a temperate climate with well-marked seasons. The hottest period is from January to February, ranging from 10°C to 24°C (average of 16°C), whilst snow occurs in the highlands from May-September. The majority of rain falls from October to April, especially in the mountains. For more details, see Climate in Lesotho.

Visitors are advised to bring lightweight cottons in the summer (December to March), with warmer wear for the evenings. In winter (June to August), medium- to heavyweight clothes are recommended. Waterproof clothing is necessary during the rainy season (October to April).

Festivals

The Christian feasts of Easter and Christmas are major events in the Lesotho year. Other dates worth noting include Moshoeshoe Day, in March, which commemorates and celebrates King Moshoeshoe I, the first king of Lesotho. He is revered as a man who managed to ward off the Zulus and the Afrikaans, keeping Lesotho free from foreign reign. The birthday of the current king is celebrated in July, while 4 October is National Independence Day.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Lesotho: