Wheels in the hills - 4x4 in Lesotho

Lesotho is one of the most popular countries for 4×4 driving in southern Africa and home to the world-famous Sani Pass that connects it to South Africa. With precipitous inclines, rough terrain, rocky descents, and water crossings – Lesotho’s got it all when it comes to putting your vehicle (and 4WD driving skills) to the test. If we may say so ourselves, the area surrounding Semonkong Lodge, with its numerous 4×4 routes of varying difficulty levels, is one of the best spots to try out your off-roading capabilities. Prepare to see spectacular sights along the way.

With Semonkong Lodge as your base, you can choose to embark on a different scenic 4×4 adventure each day. You can also explore this lofty terrain on a mountain bike or on horseback.

Perhaps on your first day, you’d like to take the family along for a leisurely 4×4 drive to familiarise yourself with our part of the world. Once you feel comfortable, it’s time to do some serious 4x4ing, where you’ll really need to have your wits about you.

Even if you’re not one of our guests, our reception has free basic maps with directions of various 4×4 routes from Semonkong Lodge. Study it over a wholesome lunch at the Duck and Donkey Tavern before heading out to tackle these mountain passes. 

If you prefer to get an early start and want to do a full-day 4×4 drive in Lesotho’s mountains, we can also cater a pre-packed lunch with beverages (if you let us know the day before). And our fully-stocked bar will be waiting for you when you get back. 

As with any four-wheel drive expedition, we please ask you to be a responsible 4×4 driver – stick to the roads, respect the environment and the villages in the area, and pack enough supplies and any safety equipment you might need. With enough notice we can also organise a community guide to accompany you in your vehicle to help with directions.

4×4 day drives from Semonkong Lodge

• Phororo viewpoint – a leisurely two-hour (return) 4×4 drive to see Maletsunyane Falls
• Tšenekeng – this off-roading drive will take you three hours (return)
• Ha Seng – it’ll take you four hours (return) to drive to Ha Seng in the western corner of Lesotho