Things To Do
in Nako
Nako is a remote highland village in Lesotho's Thaba-Tseka District, perched among the rugged Maloti Mountains. Its traditional Basotho houses and dry-stone walls tell a century of mountain life, far from the bustle of cities. The surrounding valleys offer dramatic viewpoints, native grasslands, and clear night skies perfect for stargazing.
Visitors come for hiking, cultural encounters, and a glimpse of authentic rural Basotho hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Nako by immersing yourself in the rich culture of the village. Wander through local markets where artisans display their crafts, and engage with the friendly inhabitants to learn about their traditional lives. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, savoring freshly baked bread and local delicacies.
After lunch, take a guided trek to nearby Nako Lake, a stunningly serene spot nestled in the mountains. The hike offers breathtaking views that will make for unforgettable photographs and memories. Spend your afternoon picnicking by the lake, relishing the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings.
As the sun sets, return to the village to experience a traditional Lesotho dance performance under the starry sky. Partake in the festivities by joining in the dances and enjoying the folk stories shared around the fire. Conclude your day with a hearty dinner, sampling local dishes like 'moroho' and 'pap' while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day by visiting a local school and interacting with the children, experiencing their enthusiasm and joy for learning. Engage in a fun cultural exchange by sharing stories and activities from your life. Following the visit, enjoy breakfast with a local family who will welcome you into their home.
Devote your afternoon to exploring the history of Nako by visiting its cultural heritage sites, including ancient rock paintings and traditional huts. Guided tours provide insights into the significance of these sites and the stories behind them. Break for lunch at a village café, experiencing more local flavors.
Join a storytelling night at the village community hall, where locals recount myths and legends passed down through generations. Enjoy the warmth of communal bonding while tasting refreshments that accompany the stories. Wind down your day with stargazing, basking in the tranquil nocturnal atmosphere of Nako.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥪Lunch at local cafe | $6-10 |
| 🛏️One-night guesthouse | $25-60 |
| 🚗Local taxi or shared ride | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Remote and pristine landscapes with dramatic mountain scenery
- Warm, welcoming local communities and authentic rural Basotho culture
- Limited services and infrastructure in Nako
- Long travel times from major hubs and challenging road conditions
- "Dumela" - Hello (one person)
- "Le kae?" - How are you?
- "Ka kōpo" - Please
- "Kea leboha" - Thank you
- "Ee" - Yes
- "Che" - No
- "Sala hantle" - Goodbye / Stay well
Places to Visit in Nako
Visit one of these nice places.
A high-altitude vantage point offering expansive views of the valley and surrounding peaks as the sun rises.
Photogenic clusters of dry-stone walls and thatched-roof huts with the Maloti Mountains as a backdrop.
A dramatic overlook into a winding valley with streams and dramatic rock formations.
Far from city lights, Nako provides pristine night skies ideal for astrophotography and long exposures.
Food in Nako
Nako Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional maize porridge served with morogo greens and a goat or beef stew.
Must-Try!
Leafy greens (morogo) sautéed with onions, served with pap.
Slow-cooked goat meat served with pap and locally grown vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly or regular markets where you can buy fresh produce, maize meal, local cheeses, and simple snacks; great for sampling homestyle staples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet everyone you meet with a friendly
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; respect private spaces and ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Nako
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; typical amounts are 5-10% in guesthouses and guides, higher for exceptional service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; frequent afternoon showers or thunderstorms. Pack a lightweight rain jacket, sun protection, and ample water.
Mild daytime temperatures but cooler nights; windy conditions possible. Layered clothing recommended.
Cold with a chance of frost or light snow on higher ridges; nights are especially cold. Bring insulated layers, hat, gloves, and a warm outer layer.
Variable weather with increasing warmth; spring blooms and lingering showers. Good for hiking with proper rain gear.
Nako at Night
Hiking in Nako
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the ridge above the village with panoramic valley views.
A valley trek with seasonal streams and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Nako by plane.
The main international gateway to Lesotho, located near Maseru. From there, you typically continue by road to Nako, which can take several hours on mountain roads.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents belong to the Basotho ethnic group, with strong cultural traditions and language.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Lesotho, played widely and enjoyed by locals.
A growing sport with regional teams and local matches.
Traditional activity in the hills and valleys, often tied to farming and tourism.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nako.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at guesthouses; request vegetable stews, morogo, pap, and bread-based meals in advance when possible.