All travelers should have sufficient funds, as well as the necessary documents and tickets required for an onward or return journey. Extensions for visas are possible and must be made at the
Lesotho Immigration Authorities within the 14-day period.
Americans: United States citizens must have a passport, but no visa is needed for a stay of up to 14 days.
UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport, but no visa is needed, irrespective of endorsement in passport, for a stay of up to 14 days.
Canadians: Canadians must have a passport, but no visa
is needed for a stay of up to 14 days.
Australians: Australians must have a passport, but no visa is needed for a stay of up to 14 days.
South Africans: South Africans must have a passport, but no visa is needed for a stay of up to 14 days.
Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport, but no visa is needed for a stay of up to 14 days.
New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport, but no visa is needed for a stay of up to 14 days.
Health
Lesotho's high altitude and crisp mountain air does not present many health problems for travelers. A yellow fever certificate is required from travelers coming from an infected area. HIV/AIDS is prevalent. There is a lack of good medical facilities and medical attention is often sought in neighboring
South Africa. Visitors should carry a personal supply of medicine, as supplies are limited. Lesotho's Flying Doctor service provides emergency medical services to remote parts of the country. Medical insurance is essential and should include emergency air evacuation coverage, especially if planning to spend time in remote mountainous regions.
Safety
Most visits to Lesotho are trouble-free, but there has been an increase in opportunistic crime, as well as gun-related crimes, due to a high unemployment rate in the cities. Most incidents occur in
Maseru, but visitors should also be alert elsewhere to theft, car hijackings and muggings. Muggers often target foreigners and foreign vehicles have been involved in recent hi-jackings near Malealea Lodge south of Maseru. Avoid walking around with valuables or keep them out of sight, and do not walk alone in isolated areas or in Maseru after dark. Driving through rural areas after dark is also not recommended. Sporadic demonstrations are possible and should be avoided if possible.
