Thapoha Hiking Club recently organized the third edition of the 14-day 3 Ranges Trail, scheduled from 4–17 October 2025. The trail started at the country’s lowest point (1,389m above sea level) in Morifi, Mohale’s Hoek, and ends at the summit of Thabana-Ntlenyana (3,482m) in Mokhotlong the highest peak in Southern Africa. Along the journey, hikers traverse some of Lesotho’s iconic attractions, including Maletsunyane Waterfall, Qhoasing Waterfall, and Ketane Waterfall.
The event enjoys strong support from the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC), owing to its potential to promote tourism and highlight some of the country’s most spectacular natural attractions.
It has been observed in previous years that hikers have insufficient time to interface with the host communities, thus a time was set up for community engagement session and day 7 and 8 were used for this initiative which took place at Ha Ramajalle, Lesobeng, in the Thaba-Tseka district. The purpose was to interact with local stakeholders and promote inclusive tourism development and empowerment
The event took place at Lesobeng High School, with LTDC invited to address the community on the importance of tourism. Attendees included learners, members of the Lesobeng Youth Development Association, councilors, community representatives, village chiefs, and teachers.
The name Lesobeng originates from the Sesotho word Lesoba, meaning “a Hole” or “an opening.” The area features a remarkable geographical formation resembling a naturally sculpted cave or arch believed to be the inspiration behind its name.
As a gesture of goodwill, Thapoha Hiking Club purchased five sheep, maize meal, and traditional beer prepared by community members. These were used to cater for residents, learners, and guests in attendance.
The celebration was heightened by lively traditional performances from learners and the community, while youth-led discussions showcased unity and celebrating cultural traditions.
In his remarks, LTDC’s Public Relations Manager, Mr. Molapo Matela, commended Thapoha Hiking Club for undertaking such a challenging expedition that showcases Lesotho’s breathtaking attractions. He explained that the “Re Bontše Lesotho” Campaign aims to promote domestic tourism by empowering local content creators to highlight the country’s beauty, culture, and hidden gems.
Mr. Matela further indicated that the campaign has been rolled out across various media platforms, inviting communities particularly the youth to submit captivating videos of no more than two minutes, showcasing unique attractions or tourism related activities in their areas. A winner will be selected to represent their district at national level, he concluded. “I am optimistic that the Lesobeng Youth Development Association will utilize this opportunity to showcase the attractions within their locality, inspiring both domestic and international travelers to visit,” he stated.
He emphasized that such initiatives will strengthen the tourism value chain, benefitting tour guides, homestay owners, horse hire operators, cultural performers, and local economies through the financial footprint left by tourists.
Mr. Musi, Chairperson of the Lesobeng Youth Development Association, highlighted that one of their key objectives is to create employment opportunities for the youth. He acknowledged tourism’s potential to improve livelihoods and expressed delight about the “Re Bontše Lesotho” Campaign and the 3 Ranges Trail initiative, noting that the synergy between the two will significantly amplify efforts to promote attractions in Lesobeng and surrounding villages.
He further shared fascinating folklore about local attractions, including “Libetheng” rock formations resembling beds and a historical pass known as “Khoho ha e bole” (translated: chicken meat does not rot). Oral interpretation from villagers tell of a deceased traveler whose body decomposed, yet the cooked chicken he carried remained fresh.
“We are grateful to LTDC, and we look forward to creating an engaging video to compete in the Re Bontše Lesotho Campaign and represent Thaba-Tseka nationally,” he concluded.
One participant from Bloemfontein, South Africa, Mr. Neo Phehla, shared his motivation for joining the hike from the country’s lowest elevation in Morifi to Southern Africa’s highest peak, Thabana Ntlenyana. “I have a passion for hiking. This extreme trail of approximately 300 kilometers challenges my endurance, and completing it gives me a profound sense of accomplishment,” averred Mr. Phehla. He recommended that the expedition be documented to provide prospective hikers with insight into its level of difficulty and the challenges encountered along the way. “I am enthralled by Lesotho’s scenic beauty, and I believe this can be leveraged to attract more visitors to the country,” he remarked.
Event organizer Ms. Lisebo Mositsi explained that hikers traverse three mountain ranges Thaba-Putsoa, Takalatsa (Central Range), and the Drakensberg from which the name Three Ranges Trail is derived.
“We have dedicated these two days to strengthening relationship and exploring potential collaboration on social initiatives,” she said. “Through this endeavor, we aim to share ideas on opportunities within tourism, including tour guiding, hiking excursions, rural homestays, and other unique community-based offerings that promote inclusive, respectful, and sustainable tourism,” concluded Ms. Mositsi.
