Possibly the most popular travel destination in Lesotho, Malealea is a relaxed and peaceful village set at a relatively moderate altitude of 2,000 metres in the western highlands south of Maseru. Reached via the spectacular Gate to Paradise Pass, it is renowned as a base for pony trekking, but other attractions range from hiking and mountain biking to community tours and excursions to see ancient Bushman paintings.
In travel terms, Malealea is all but inseparable from the eco-friendly and community-orientated lodge with which it shares a name. Converted from a local trading post founded by a British settler in 1905, Malealea Lodge opened in its current guise back in 1986, and it has been owned and managed by the same hands-on family ever since. Today it runs almost entirely on solar power, and most excursions on offer are operated and guided by local villagers.
Malealea Lodge is best known for as a pony trekking centre. Excursions range from a three-hour sortie suited to beginner riders, through to a variety of multi-night treks through the breathtaking highlands that separate Malealea from Semonkong, 50km to the east. Overnight treks provide a fully immersive cultural experience, as trekkers get to sleep in traditional Basotho Huts or camp in remote highland villages, and have the opportunity to explore otherwise inaccessible waterfalls, natural rock pools, caves, Bushman painting sites and so on.
Bikers can explore the surrounding countryside on mountain bikes, which are hired out by the hours. The hiking opportunities are practically limitless, and also include visits to waterfalls, rock pools and rock art sites within day walking distance of the lodge.
Another popular activity at Malealea is a guided community tour taking in the small village museum, a visit to a local chief, a traditional sorghum-beer brewery, and an optional local-style lunch. In addition, one of two local bands - Malealea Band and Sotho Sound - performs traditional “family style” music on iconic homemade instruments on the garden every evening before dinner.
And if this all sounds a little exhausting to less active travellers, fret not – Malealea’s large leafy grounds and wide verandas are ideal for chilling out over a coffee or beer.
Sleeping: Malealea Lodge offers a wide range of affordable accommodation, ranging from comfortable ensuite cottages and rooms to backpacker-friendly dormitories and camping.
Eating: A good restaurant and bar is attached to Malealea Lodge.
Access: Malealea lies about 85km south of Maseru along the A2 and B40, passing through Morija en route. The drive should take less than two hours, and though the last bit is unsurfaced, no 4x4 is required. Regular public transport runs between Maseru and Malealea.
Preparations: Although day activities are available at short notice, overnight pony treks are best booked in advance through Malealea Lodge.
© Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation
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