Lesotho
Encompassed by South Africa, the Kingdom of Lesotho- the world's only country with its entire landmass more than 1 500m above sea level - rightly deserves its epithet of Kingdom in the Sky!
Comparable in area to Belgium, Lesotho makes up for its size with the magnificence of the panoramic views from the mountains which cover most of the country. The Kingdom in the Sky has a healthy and invigorating climate and is totally free from tropical diseases such as yellow fever, bilharzia and malaria.
Lesotho's people, the Basotho, are known for their warmth and friendliness. Their's is a society rich in culture and noted for crafts such as weaving, pottery and grasswork.
Mountaineering, hiking and pony trekking are popular leisure choices for visitors to the Mountain Kingdom. There are also excellent opportunities for photography, bird watching, fossil hunting, rock collecting and purchasing of local handicrafts. Lesotho boasts sophisticated hotels and casino facilities in its capital, Maseru, and simpler but comfortable accommodation in other areas.
Population: Lesotho's population is estimated at 1.892 million (2010), with an average density of 65,7 people per square kilometre. The Basuto people make up around 95 percent of the population.
Size: 30 355 km2
Neighbouring Countries: Surrounded by South Africa
Language: SeSotho and English are the official languages.
Capital City: Maseru
Airports: Moshoeshoe International Airport at Maseru.
Socio-economic statistics: Lush and breathtakingly beautiful, Lesotho is aptly known as "The Mountain Kingdom". It boasts some of the highest and most scenic mountain peaks in Southern Africa, as well as a collection of top-class resorts and lodges - and even snow.
Economy:Multi-sectoral, light industry in textiles and food processing and also sells water to South Africa from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
Tourism investment opportunties: Resorts, accommodation in the Maloti Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Area.
Iconic Attraction: Thaba Bosiu
Places to see: Maseru, Thaba Bosiu, Sethlabathe National Park, Katse Dam in the Malbatso Valley, Thabana Ntlenyana.
Climate. The rainy season stretches from October to April with summer maximum temperatures of 32o C and higher. In winter minimums drop below freezing and snow is common.
Currency: Maloti, South African Rand (ZAR) also accepted.
Time zone: GMT +2
National Day: 4 October, 1966