High in the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, the Afriski Mountain Resort is attracting thousands of visitors each winter, offering one of Africa’s most unique tourism experiences as the only ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,200 metres above sea level, Afriski provides skiing, snowboarding, tubing and other snow activities, drawing visitors from across Southern Africa who would otherwise travel to Europe or North America for winter sports. Lesotho, often called the “Kingdom in the Sky,” is the only country in the world entirely above 1,000 metres in elevation. Its mountainous terrain makes it the coldest country in Africa, with temperatures in the highlands regularly dropping to minus 8 degrees Celsius during the winter months of June through August.
For many visitors, experiencing snowfall in Africa is a surprise. “When you think of Africa, you imagine sunshine and deserts, not snow,” said Thato Ramaphoko, a first-time visitor from Pretoria, South Africa. “Being able to enjoy both in the same continent is incredible.” South African student Janco Smits, who has previously skied in Europe, described Afriski as an ideal destination for beginners, saying the resort offers a unique atmosphere and a more affordable alternative to overseas ski holidays. Although Lesotho receives regular winter snowfall, the resort also operates artificial snow-making machines to maintain ski conditions throughout the season when natural snowfall is limited. Afriski has become a major contributor to Lesotho’s tourism industry, a sector that accounts for roughly 7 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). According to resort Chief Executive Officer Theo Ferreira, around 70 percent of visitors come from neighboring South Africa, while the remaining guests are from Lesotho and other countries across the region.
The resort currently employs 227 full-time and seasonal staff, with the vast majority being Basotho nationals. Around 30 South Africans are employed primarily as ski instructors. Visitor numbers continue to grow. Ferreira said the resort recorded more than 1,400 visitors on its busiest day this year, while 2025 saw a record of over 1,600 day visitors, excluding overnight guests. As interest in adventure tourism expands across Africa, Afriski is increasingly positioning Lesotho as an unexpected winter destination, helping diversify the country’s economy while showcasing the unique landscapes of Southern Africa.
