Our ever-popular pony treks & hiking trails (Click here for overnight trails)
Discovering Lesotho on the back of a pony or on foot are the two greatest attractions for travelers. You wander through the magnificent scenery of Lesotho, with plenty of stops to enjoy the views and relax with a picnic by a cooling waterfall. The sure-footed Basotho pony has been bred as the ideal form of transport in the rugged mountains and is the most effective means of reaching inaccessible mountain villages. Gentle and sure-footed, they are ideal for people who have not sat on a horse for many years or not at all. They are also used as packhorses for carrying luggage.
Our most popular day ride is to the viewpoint of the mighty Maletsunyane Falls, one of the highest single dropping waterfalls in Africa. This ride can be extended to a 5 hour ride, including Mount Qoang, the highest mountain in the area & where you will see the Spiral Aloe (Aloe Polyphylla). If you are experienced riders let us know & we will arrange for a gallop through Polateng.
What to bring?
Please wear long trousers & a good jacket, always carry something to keep you warm & dry; the weather in the mountains can be very unpredictable. It is essential to wear good hiking boots (with a slight heel = NB!) No sandals or flip flops or takkies/sneakers. Remember sun block & a hat. Bring your own lunch, something to drink & your own water bottle. The restaurant will do packed lunches on request. These will be packed into saddlebags, no daypacks needed. Do not forget your camera!
Please Note: All prices are inclusive of a 14% VAT.
LSL = Lesotho Loti (Same Value as ZAR = South African Rand)
Pricing
It is Lodge policy that horse-riding helmets are worn by Guests at all times, which are supplied by the Lodge.
Day Hikes
A basic minimum of LSL130.00 must be paid directly to the guide. A basic map with directions is available in Reception.
The Phororo Viewpoint ±3 hours return (Easy) – An easy hike to a viewpoint opposite the Falls to view the spectacular 186m single drop waterfall & gorge with its 300m cliffs.
Ka Nokeng ±5-6 hours return (Medium-Steep & Slippery when wet) – This hike allows you to view the Maletsunyane Waterfall from the front & from the waterfalls edge. Following the river back to the lodge you can swim in many rock pools along the way.
Into the Smoke ±5-6 hours return (Hard – Recommended to take a guide) – A hike to the bottom of the Maletsunyane Waterfall. To see the Falls from the bottom brings its’ awesome size into perspective. This is a beautiful place to swim, trout fish or just to sit in awe of the power of time & nature
Matsoku Falls ±5-6 hours return (Medium)- A southern view of the gorge & Matsoku waterfalls.
Traditional Horse Races
Semonkong remains a remote frontier town isolated from the rest of Southern Africa, which has allowed the Basotho pony to thrive & stay at the centre of Basotho life. Ponies are not only used in everyday activities, such as transport of people & goods, but they also have their time in the spotlight.
The monthly (in winter) horse races are one of these times. The horse races here happen because our entire livelihood revolves around Basotho ponies & horse owners are completely passionate about the sport. Weather permitting, once a month, the local Semonkong Racing committee organises horse races for a Saturday afternoon once a challenge has arisen. There are various tracks in the area & everyone gathers on the day with great excitement & jubilation.
The biggest horse races are usually the weekend of the King’s Birthday (17th July) & Independence weekend (04th October). We do encourage Guests, Companies or whoever is willing to sponsor the horse races – the greater the prize money the bigger the event!!!
2018 Race Dates to be announced.
