Things To Do
in Mohale’s Hoek

A staple stiff maize porridge served with stews, beans or sour milk—available at most eateries and homes.

Must-Try!

A simple dish of sautéed wild or cultivated greens (similar to spinach), sometimes cooked with onion and chili; commonly found at market stalls and family meals.

Slow-cooked or roasted beef/mutton, often shredded and served with pap—served at local taverns and during community gatherings.

Fermented milk consumed as a drink or accompaniment to pap—sold by local dairy vendors and in markets.

The town market is the best place to sample local breads, roasted maize, dairy products and seasonal produce; it's where you can buy woven blankets and handmade goods as well.

Along main roads small vendors sell snacks such as roasted maize, samosas made with local fillings, and homemade sweets—good for quick tastes.

Dress modestly in public and when visiting villages—avoid revealing clothing and remove hats in small churches as a sign of respect.

Greet people with a friendly handshake and a short greeting in Sesotho if you can; inquiries about family and wellbeing are common polite conversation openers.

Always ask before photographing people—many will be happy but some prefer not to be photographed, especially around ceremonies or private moments.

Bargaining at markets is normal but do so politely; buying local crafts supports families so pay fair prices when you can.

Tipping is modest—round up bills at cafés, leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good and give small tips to guides and drivers. In informal settings and markets tipping isn't expected but appreciated for excellent service.

Lesotho's currency is the loti (LSL) and South African rand (ZAR) is widely accepted; cash is preferred in markets and rural areas. Credit/debit cards and ATMs are available in larger towns and hotels but may be limited—carry sufficient cash for day-to-day purchases.

Warm days with afternoon thunderstorms are common; vegetation is green and rivers fuller—ideal for birdwatching and hiking but pack rain gear and expect muddy tracks.

Drying landscape and cooler temperatures; clear skies and crisp mornings make for pleasant walking and photography at sunrise and sunset.

Cold to very cold, with frost and occasional snow in the higher foothills; daytime sun can be pleasant but nights are freezing—bring thermal layers and insulated footwear.

Warming weather, wildflowers in some years and returning pastoral activity; roads improve after winter but can still be dusty or rutted.

The main international airport serving Lesotho, located near Maseru (approx. 1.5–2.5 hours' drive depending on road conditions). Offers flights to South Africa and regional hubs; ground transport needed to reach Mohale’s Hoek.

Smaller regional airstrips and airfields exist in Lesotho for charter flights; availability is limited and typically used for private charters or emergency transfers—arrange in advance with operators.

Vegetarian options are limited but feasible—look for morogo/moroho (greens), bean stews and pap; explain needs clearly and be flexible with simple dishes.

Vegan meals require advance planning; many dishes include dairy or meat stock. Buy fruits, vegetables and grains at the market and ask cooks to omit milk or meat where possible.

Staples like maize porridge are naturally gluten-free, but check for additives and cross-contamination in baked goods and processed foods.

Medical cards or clear local-language notes are useful; smaller kitchens may not understand complex allergy needs, so bring essentials or snacks if you have serious allergies.