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Where It's At
Pony trekking is an excellent way to see the highlands of
Lesotho. One of the best centres is the Pony Trekking Centre
on the road between Maseru and Thaba-Tseka.
This is located on top of the dubiously named God Help
Me Pass. Treks can last as little as two hours or as long
as a week depending on what you want. The former will cost
about M30 ($3 US) whereas a week will be around M350 ($120
US).
Trek Essentials
Trekking in this area is on the unique Basotho Pony.
They are an intriguing mix between short Javanese ponies and
full mount European horses, which results in a sure-footed
and gentle breed. Horses were captured by Basotho warriors
in the eighteenth century and King Moshoeshoe was recorded
as owning a Basotho pony as early as 1830. The Basotho
Pony Trekking Centre was set up in 1983 to help preserve
this distinctive gene pool. You do not need to be an experienced
rider to enjoy this experience as the ponies are gentle and
used to the highland environment.
You can also arrange pony trekking at Malealea, which
is probably the best area in Lesotho. The guides are villagers
who organise them in association with the lodge. This means
that you will get a rare insight into Basotho village life
as well as contributing to the local economy. Popular treks
include visits to the Ribaneng and Ketane waterfalls,
which will last four days and three nights. This will cost
approximately M400 ($140 US). You will also need to bring
food, sleeping bag, waterproofs, warm clothing, a torch, sunblock
and fresh water. |
