Malealea
A highland mountain village reached by crossing the Gate of Paradise pass, known for Basotho pony rides, village hikes, and rock art.
Malealea is about an 85 km drive south of Maseru. Before reaching the village, you cross the Gate of Paradise pass, where a sign reads "Wayfarer, pause and look upon a gateway of paradise," and the layered Maluti valleys open up before you. In the village, the Malealea Lodge is run as a community-based cooperative. It can arrange Basotho pony rides (half-day to multi-day), village hikes, visits to San rock art sites and waterfalls, and in the evenings, performances by a local choir. You can visit on a day trip, but we recommend staying at least one night.
Opening hours
Open all day (cycling requires reservation)
Nearby sights
- Morija Dinosaur Footprints
- Morija Museum & Archives
- Roma Mission
- Maletsunyane Falls (Semonkong)
- Thaba Bosiu
- Ha Baroana Rock Art
- Molimo Nthuse & Bushman's Pass (Basotho Pony Trekking)
- Our Lady of Victories Cathedral