Lesotho Semenkong - more info
MEETING and DROP-OFF
We'll meet and spend the first night in a hotel in Lesotho's capital Maseru. This allows for a range of travel options in from South Africa, and the opportunity to relax and acclimatise before the stunning four-hour minibus journey to Semonkong the next day (prepare yourself with drinks and snacks). Hotel to be advised nearer the time.
Pick up time 17.00 (but some flexibility by arrangement)
Returning, we'll spend the last night again in Maseru - a final chance to see the capital, with flexibility of onward travel.
VISA AND PASSPORT
Valid passports are required and should have at least six months validity. UK citizens can gain an entry visa on arrival. Visas are not required for South Africa. Non UK citizens, please check with your local embassy.
MONEY
Lesotho’s currency is the Maloti, (100 Lisenti), tied to South African Rand. It is best to bring cash as South African Rand (ZAR) as you cannot use or exchange Maloti outside Lesotho. Cash machines are available iin Maseru but there are no cash points or currency exchange outlets in Semonkong. Semonkong Lodge accepts credit card payments. Some spending money is useful - R1000-2000 would be plenty for most people.
FOOD
Mix of self catering in communal kitchen, meals provided by the lodge, and a chance to experience the local 'restaurants' - well off the tourist trail. Local food at lunchtimes is provided by the nearest village. We try to use local produce on BTCV holidays. Please ensure to notify us of any special dietary requirements.
HEALTH
The best up-to-date information on health issues can be found at the NHS 'Fit For Travel' website.
You are unlikely to have health problems as long as you take reasonable precautions. Do not drink water unless purified. Semonkong Lodge has supply of drinking water on tap. Tick bite fever is small risk, especially for those pony trekking. Easily treated once diagnosed.
HIV/AIDs is pandemic in the country. Please see the "Health Advice for Travellers" leaflet enclosed with your joining pack.
At Semonkong the effects of altitude are felt - even the fittest can get a bit breathless with exertion. You should be physically fit and capable of walking on rough ground.
WEATHER
The altitude means that Lesotho has a relatively cool climate. We don't expect snow at this time of year, but you should be prepared for a range of temperatures.
CULTURE
Did you know? The name Lesotho roughly translates into "the land of the people who speak Sotho."
Expect a very warm welcome in Semonkong. The Basotho have a very hospitable and open culture. You may be stopped frequently to pass the time of day with locals! English and Sesotho are the official languages and most, but not all, people speak some English. Learning basic greetings in Sesotho will make all the difference to your reception. You will be in contact with real poverty. Lesotho is one of world’s poorest countries. Agriculture and livestock are main income for 60% of households but more than 95% cannot meet own food requirements. One in three adults affected by HIV/AIDS pandemic. Average life expectancy is now 36 which is devastating Basotho life, from family unit to national economy.
The Basotho are very religious. Christianity coexists with traditional beliefs. Expect bursts of prayer and hymns throughout the day! Dress reasonably conservatively. Couples should avoid being overly affectionate in public. Always ask before taking photos of locals and respect their wishes (usually they are happy to have their picture taken.) Particularly sensitive are initiation schools, held for boys and girls at certain times of year. Usually very private and secretive affairs and you should not intrude on these events uninvited. Lastly, be prepared for some fairly relaxed timekeeping and laid back approach to organisation. Just go with the flow and things will get done eventually!
Crime is not a major problem in Lesotho. Semonkong is fine with reasonable precautions. Be careful walking at night, avoid leaving valuables unattended or showing off wealth. Begging from herdboys and other children for sweets and money shouldn’t be encouraged. A donation or gift to the community (e.g. clothes, books, pens etc) can be arranged through Katleho 'Moho or Lodge owners.
LANGUAGE
The official languages of Lesotho are Sesotho and English.
TIME ZONE
Lesotho is 3 hours ahead of the UK
PHONE
International country code: +266
RISK ASSESSMENT
All BTCV projects are subject to a detailed assessment of associated risks and threats. View a summary of the Risk Assessment for this project.
