Map of Lesotho

Lesotho is a small, landlocked country in southern Africa. It is bordered by South Africa to the north, west, and south, and by the kingdom of eSwatini to the east. Lesotho covers an area of 11,720 square miles, making it slightly larger than the U.S. state of Maryland. The capital and largest city is Maseru. Lesotho’s population is estimated at 2.2 million people, with a median age of 20 years old. The majority of the population is of Basotho ethnicity, with smaller numbers of Europeans, Asians, and Africans. Lesotho’s landscape is mostly mountainous, with the Maluti Mountains occupying much of the eastern third of the country. The climate is generally temperate, although it can be quite cold in the mountains. Lesotho is a culturally diverse country, with a rich tradition of music and dance. The country’s most famous export is perhaps its hand-crafted Basotho blankets, which are worn by many rural residents as protection from the cold mountain winters. Lesotho is a fascinating country with much to offer travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.