Spring

The transitional seasons of Spring and Autumn tend to possess a less distinctive character in Lesotho than they do in Europe or North America. Furthermore, because the country lies in the southern hemisphere, these seasons fall at opposite times of the year to their counterparts in the northern hemisphere.

Spring falls over September and October, when average temperatures in Maseru and the rest of the relatively low-lying west hit a maximum of 18-24°C and drop to around 5-10°C at night. Often, the pattern during these months tends less towards the average than it does to alternating runs of comprising a few days of wintery weather then a few that are more summer-like. Temperatures are typically around 3-5°C lower at medium-high altitudes. The highest peaks are often considerable chillier and might receive snow.

Because Lesotho falls within a summer rainfall zone, the midwinter months of June to August tend to be very sunny and dry, a trend that continues into September. The first spring rains usually fall in October, transforming the parched and frostbitten winter landscape into a green paradise studded with a colourful medley of wildflowers. Hail is possible, especially at higher altitudes, and mist might reduce visibility in the mountains at any time of year.

Spring is a pleasant time for popular outdoor activities such as hiking, trail running, pony-trekking, mountain biking and abseiling. These are unlikely to be greatly disrupted by extreme weather in the lower-lying west, but it is a good idea to carry adequate rain gear and warm clothing in case of storms or cold snaps, especially at higher altitudes.

Spring is not a prime time for birdwatching. This is because altitudinal and Palaearctic migrant species generally only arrive in the country in late October or early November, which is also when weavers, bishops and widows shed their dull winter plumage and taking on brighter breeding colours. 

September marks the start of the fishing season and both it and October offer excellent condition for fly-fisherman before the rains start to fall in earnest and to silt up rivers.

Spring is also a good time of year to explore the country in a 4x4, bearing in mind that more remote roads might temporarily become impassable as a result of rain damage, rockfalls or swollen rivers.

There is no skiing or snowboarding in spring.