Sani Mountain Lodge

Top choice in Lesotho


At 2874m, this lodge atop the Sani Pass stakes a claim to 'Africa's highest pub'. Bar trivia aside, cosy rondavels (round huts with a conical roof) and excellent meals (mains from M55) reward those who make the steep ascent from KwaZulu-Natal. Backpackers doss down the road in modern rooms that hold between two and six people.

In winter, the snow is sometimes deep enough for skiing (you must bring your own equipment, though); pony trekking and village visits can be arranged with notice. A 4WD shuttle (M350) to/from the South African border post is offered to guests staying more than one night.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Lesotho attractions

1. Himeville Museum

17.67 MILES

One of the best rural museums in the country. Housed in a retired fort dating back to 1899, the museum now contains an incredible array of bric-a-brac,…

2. Lammergeier Hide

20.23 MILES

The rare lammergeier, also known as the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), which is found only in the Drakensberg, nests in the reserve. Reserve staff…

3. Main Cave

25.15 MILES

The Giant’s Castle area is rich in San rock art. It's thought that the last San lived here at the beginning of the 20th century. To see some of these…

4. Sehlabathebe National Park

25.68 MILES

This far-flung, lesser-visited park offers stunning rock formations, rolling grasslands, wildflowers and a feeling of isolation, though there's also a…

5. Giant’s Castle

26.1 MILES

The Giant’s Castle ridge is one of the most prominent features of the Berg and the park that surrounds it remains one of the most popular destinations in…

6. Kamberg Nature Reserve

26.66 MILES

Southeast of Giant's Castle, Kamberg Nature Reserve has a number of antelope species and a mustn't-miss rock-art experience. It begins with a multimedia…

7. Highmoor Nature Reserve

27.07 MILES

Although more exposed and less dramatic than some of the Drakensberg region, the undulating hills of this reserve make for pleasant walks. It’s also one…