There is something magical about travelling and exploring new destinations. Personally, I feel like a different person after every travel experience. Quoting Anita Desai when she said, ‘Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow’, Maletsunyane Falls in Semonkong Lesotho has the same effect every time I visit, and it was no different recently when I went.
“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” – Anita Desai
The majestic Maletsunyane Falls, 192-meters-high, is in Semonkong (also known as Place of Smoke) on the Maletsunyane River. The drive to Maletsunyane Falls is approximately three hours from the capital city of Lesotho, Maseru, boasting picturesque scenery, fresh air, and a backdrop of some of Africa’s most beautiful mountains. The drive is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and is ideal for family and friends.
Figure 1: Maletsunyane Falls
What activities are available in Semonkong?
- Manong Restaurant
Looking for a bite, while enjoying the Falls view? Manong Restaurant is the perfect place.
It is situated at Semonkong’s Visitors Comfort Facility (VCF), overlooking the Maletsunyane Falls. The restaurant has a full menu, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. It also has a bar that serves drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic). The restaurant opens until 10pm.
- Semonkong Lodge
Semonkong Lodge provides accommodation, a restaurant and bar. The lodge also assists with other activities such as horseback riding, abseiling, hiking and pony trekking among others.
Figure 2: TKay Horseback Riding in Semonkong
- Horseback riding
For adventure enthusiasts and animal lovers, horseback riding is available at Maletsunyane Falls from LSL20 per ride (they prefer cash). The guides are friendly and will help you patiently if you are afraid of horses. They will also take a picture of you and help you capture the experience.
- 204m Abseiling
There is something for the adrenaline junkies too. The Maletsunyane Falls abseil is 204m, and it is also the longest single drop abseil in the world certified by Guinness World Record. Talk about adventure!
- Mountain biking
You can also book a bicycle and helmet from the Bike shop at the VCF to explore Semonkong. If you are travelling with children, there are bicycles and other activities such as trampolines available to keep them entertained.
- Events
Semonkong attracts some of Lesotho’s biggest events for example the Maletsunyane Braai Festival – the biggest braai festival in Lesotho, Wine and Food Festivals, the Afro-Fair Black Hair Experience and many more.
Figure 3: Picture by Sello Panyane
Why should you visit Maletsunyane Falls and Semonkong?
The question is WHY NOT?
The beauty and vibrancy of the Kingdom in the Sky is reason enough to visit. Maletsunyane Falls, like many other gems in Lesotho, offers breathtaking views that you cannot experience anywhere in Africa. The hospitality and warmth of Basotho (people from Lesotho) will find a way into your heart and settle. So, go ahead and let it be part of you.
For more information, connect with me on www.tkaynthebe.com and follow me on all social media platforms @tkay_nthebe.
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