How to Relocate to Lesotho - Guide on Moving to Lesotho
As one of the smallest nations within South Africa, Lesotho is fast becoming a popular destination for those who wish to relocate to the African continent. Home to some of the region's finest national parks, Lesotho offers expats a landscape that's far removed from the remainder of Africa in terms of development and culture. Here's everything you need to understand and do when relocating to this charming landlocked country.
OER Africa, Maseru from Parliament Hill, CC BY 2.0
Lesotho at a Glance
Officially named the Kingdom of Lesotho, this small landlocked nation is home to two million residents and is a lesser-known part of South Africa. Lesotho is mostly mountainous, although its three national parks and other areas do feature plateaus and flatlands. The capital of Lesotho is Maseru, which sits at the mouth of the Caledon River, precisely on the border that the country shares with South Africa. This is why most tourists enter Lesotho via the South African town called Ladybrand. Maseru traces its beginnings to the 1860s when the British government used the town as a police area. Having gained independence from British rule in 1966, the official language of the local populace is Sesotho, although most speak fluent English due to colonisation.
Getting to Lesotho
Those who intend to relocate to Lesotho should ideally conduct a fact-finding trip before making any concrete plans, as a holiday in the country will prepare one for conditions on the ground. Would-be expats who made reservations at Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino or any of the other hotels in Lesotho can fly into the country via the Moshoeshoe Airport. This is the main airport in the country and is located just 18km away from downtown Maseru. There are daily direct flights from Johannesburg to Moshoeshoe, although it is crucial to pack light as checked-in luggage often gets lost during flights. It is also necessary to book an airport taxi prior to arrival, as one cannot find taxis parked outside the airport building. Those who would rather drive to Lesotho from South Africa, on the other hand, will travel across several border crossings. Security and bag checks are common along the way, but one must be mindful of when the border crossing close before heading out on the journey.
Weather Wise
As far as climate goes, expats can expect cooler weather conditions than the rest of Africa, thanks to Lesotho's towering mountains and high altitude location. The summers are warm, but the winters are cool, so expect the weather patterns to differ based on the location of your future home or base. Summers are also known for heavy and sudden downpours, although it hardly ever rains during winter. The country is at its warmest from November to February, when cotton clothing is all that one can wear comfortably. Expats should be aware that there are areas of the country that experience harsh winters and heavy snow during the winter months when temperatures can dip to -18°C. This type of weather is typical of the highlands, which can prove inhospitable for retirees and those unaccustomed to bitterly cold conditions.
Employment Options
If you are hoping to stay gainfully engaged in some type of occupation in Lesotho to support yourself, it is crucial to consider working for foreign development agencies. Local unemployment rates are high, and while the opportunities for foreigners may be equally low, there are projects run by NGOs and other overseas organisations looking for recruits. Mining executives and those who have experience in the diamond mining industry will find plenty of lucrative chances to put their skills to the test.
Main Industries
The two main profitable industries in Lesotho are the tourism industry, which is concentrated around its three national parks, and the diamond sector.
