Lesotho Travel Vaccines and Advice
Lesotho is often referred to as the Kingdom in the Sky. Constructed in the heart of a beautiful mountainous landscape, this country has decided to open its doors to tourists in the recent years. It has since become one of the most popular travel destinations for its blend of cultural and natural wealth. To the north, Holtse bears the signs of Lesotho’s colonial past. In Quthing, you may even be able to spot dinosaur footprints. As a University town, Roma will immerse you in a friendly warm atmosphere. The capital Maseru is also well worth a visit during your time. For water sports enthusiasts, a trip to Katse Dam or Maletsunyane Falls will make your stay memorable. As for nature lovers, the Sehlabathebe National Park is highly recommended.
Recommended travel vaccinations for Lesotho
| Vaccine | Disease Transmission |
|---|---|
| Traveler’s diarrhea | Contaminated water/food |
| Cholera | |
| Typhoid | |
| Hepatitis A | |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated body fluids (blood, sex, razors, needles, etc.) |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito bites |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
Recommended Medication for Travelling to Lesotho
| Medication | Additional Information |
|---|---|
| Acetazolamide or Dexamethasone | Recommended for prevention of acute mountain sickness |
| Azithromycin or Suprax | Antibiotic in case of traveler’s diarrhea |
Current Weather in Lesotho
Medical Care in Lesotho
Medical services in Lesotho are not sufficient, with inadequate infrastructure and a lack of medication throughout the country. In addition, the treatments provided are ineffective. It is strongly recommended to avoid medical treatment for serious illnesses in Lesotho; visitors should request medical evacuation to Belgium or South Africa. If a medical transfer is not possible, choose to be treated at the Maseru Private Hospital instead of the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital.
Pharmaceuticals are unreliable and are kept in unsuitable conditions. For this reason, remember to bring an emergency medical kit.
Unfortunately, Lesotho does not offer an ambulance service. You may call 589 705 88 for medical assistance.
Is Lesotho Safe for Travel?
| Safety and Security | Descriptive |
|---|---|
| Crime | Risk present |
| Demonstrations | Risk of violence; Avoid large gatherings |
| Road safety | Limited gas station outside of cities; Caution required in rural areas |
| Public transportation | Avoid minibus taxis |
| Risk level | High degree of caution |
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Lesotho?
Prior to travel, make sure you check with your transportation company about any passport requirements. This is important as in some cases their regulations on passport validity may be more strict than those of the destination country.
Only a passport is required to enter Lesotho for trips under 14 days. Otherwise, an extension is required for stays between 14 and 44 days. A temporary residence permit is required if staying longer. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure.
Please click here for more information.
Embassy of Canada to Lesotho information
When travelling to another country, it is important to know where the Canadian embassy is located in the event of:
- A legal problem
- A lost passport
- The need to report a crime
It is advisable to make a copy of your original passport in case you lose it.
Canadian High Commission to South Africa (PRETORIA)
Street Address:
1103 Arcadia Street, Hatfield,
Pretoria, 0083, South Africa
Tel.: 27 (12) 422-3000
Fax: 27 (12) 422-3052
Email: [email protected]
Please note that this is the website for the Canadian High Commission in South Africa. There is no Canadian government office in Lesotho.