Deep in the heart of southern Africa lies a hidden gem that has been gaining popularity among thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Lesotho, a tiny African kingdom, is home to the continent's only ski resort, Afriski Mountain Resort. Located in the northern Maluti Mountains, the resort offers a unique skiing experience that is unlike anywhere else in the world.
The resort's high elevation, at 3,200 metres above sea level, combined with its mountainous terrain, make it the coldest country in Africa. Temperatures in the highlands typically plunge to minus eight degrees Celsius between June and August, making it an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort's artificial snow machines ensure that it stays open throughout the winter, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Most visitors come from South Africa, with the rest mostly from Lesotho or elsewhere in southern Africa. The resort has 227 full-time and seasonal employees, nearly all Lesotho nationals, with about 30 South Africans working mainly as skiing instructors. While the resort has rooms for 420 overnight guests, the nearby Butha-Buthe and Mohlokong towns can offer extra accommodation in peak season.
For many visitors, Afriski is where they had their first ski lessons, braving falls and dusting themselves off before having another try. The resort has played a significant role in helping ski tourism emerge as another attraction in southern Africa, known for its wildlife and scenic coastlines along the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Visitors can also sample a taste of Lesotho in the form of traditional sausage rolls and Maluti Lager, the country's proudly home-brewed beer.