Lesotho is a high-altitude mountain kingdom in southern Africa, surrounded by South Africa and centered on the Maloti Mountains. Maseru is the compact capital and main gateway, but most highlights lie out in the highlands and along the Lesotho-South Africa border.
For big landscapes and trekking, the Drakensberg forms a dramatic border range with escarpments, while Thabana Ntlenyana is the highest mountain in Lesotho and a major goal for experienced hikers. Sehlabathebe National Park protects high-altitude wetlands and biodiversity, with hikes and waterfalls in a remote setting. Water and engineering are another draw at Katse Dam, a major mountain dam that created the Katse Reservoir and supplies hydroelectricity. For a single standout waterfall, Maletsunyane Falls is a tall plunge with a notable single-drop height and is also known for abseiling and scenic views.
