Maletsunyane Falls

The Maletsunyane Falls, near the highland town of Semonkong, are among the highest single-drop waterfalls in southern Africa: the Maletsunyane River falls nearly 200 metres over a basalt cliff into a deep gorge, and in cold highland winters the spray sometimes freezes. The town's name, Semonkong, meaning place of smoke, refers to the mist of the falls. As well as viewing the cascade from clifftop paths or on a pony trek, an operator runs what is listed as the world's longest commercially operated single-drop abseil beside it.

Highlights

• The waterfall - the nearly 200-metre single-drop plunge.
• The gorge - the deep basalt gorge below the falls.
• The record abseil - the world's longest commercial abseil beside it.
• The pony treks - the rides to the falls and viewpoints.

When to go

November to March, the highland summer and rainy season, for the fullest, most powerful flow; the falls can slow in the dry winter, though the winter cold sometimes freezes the spray dramatically. The falls are reached from Semonkong by a short hike or, in classic Lesotho style, a pony trek across the highlands.

Practical notes

Reaching the falls involves travel to the remote highland town of Semonkong on rough roads and then a hike or pony ride, so it takes effort and is often part of a wider mountain trip, with basic facilities; the record abseil is a serious activity that needs fitness.

Nearby

The town of Semonkong and the surrounding Maloti highlands are close by.

Key facts