How to Get to Afriski Mountain Resort [2025 Guide]
🏔️ How to Get to Afriski Mountain Resort [2025 Guide]
🌍 Where is Afriski Mountain Resort?
Afriski Mountain Resort is located in the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, about 3,000 meters above sea level. It’s the only ski resort in Lesotho and one of just a few in Southern Africa. The resort is roughly 4.5–5 hours’ drive from Johannesburg and about 6–7 hours from Durban, making it a popular winter getaway for South African travelers.
✈️ Step 1: Fly into South Africa
Since Lesotho doesn’t have a major international airport, most travelers fly into South Africa first. The two most convenient airports are:
- O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), Johannesburg – Best for travelers coming from overseas.
- King Shaka International Airport (DUR), Durban – A good option for domestic South African visitors.
From either city, you’ll continue your journey by car or shuttle to Lesotho.
🚗 Step 2: Drive or Shuttle to Afriski
Once you land, the most common way to reach Afriski is by road.
🚙 Self-Drive Option
- From Johannesburg: ~4.5–5 hours (around 370 km).
- From Durban: ~6–7 hours (around 500 km).
- The route passes through Caledonspoort Border Post near Fouriesburg.
- A 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially in winter when snow and ice can make roads slippery.
🚌 Shuttle Service
If you don’t want to drive, Afriski and private operators offer shuttle transfers from Johannesburg and Durban. These run during the winter ski season (June–August) and must be booked in advance.
🛂 Step 3: Border Crossing into Lesotho
Travelers must cross from South Africa into Lesotho.
- Main entry point: Caledonspoort Border Post (Fouriesburg → Butha-Buthe).
- Documents needed:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity).
- Some nationalities may require a visa—check with the Lesotho government website before traveling.
- Car requirements: If driving a rental, ensure you have cross-border clearance papers from the rental agency.
Hotel/Resort Reservation: Grab exclusive hotel deals and plan your getaway!
📌 Summary – Travel Route in 2025
| Step | Mode of Transport | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Fly into Johannesburg or Durban | 1–10 hrs (depending on origin) | Johannesburg most common |
| Step 2 | Drive or Shuttle to Lesotho | 4.5–7 hrs | Border crossing required |
| Step 3 | Border Formalities | 20–40 min | Passport & car documents needed |
| Step 4 | Drive to Afriski Resort | 1 hr from Caledonspoort | Mountain road conditions vary |
🌟 Travel Tips for 2025
- Winter readiness: If visiting during ski season, roads can be icy—carry snow chains or book a shuttle.
- Book early: Afriski is popular during June–August; accommodation and shuttles sell out.
- Currency: Lesotho uses the Lesotho loti (LSL), but the South African rand (ZAR) is accepted everywhere.
- Altitude: The resort is 3,000m above sea level—stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
🙋 FAQs: Getting to Afriski Mountain Resort
Q1. What is the closest airport to Afriski Mountain Resort?
👉 The closest major airport is Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International (JNB) in South Africa.
Q2. How far is Afriski from Johannesburg?
👉 It takes about 4.5–5 hours by car from Johannesburg to Afriski.
Q3. Do I need a visa to enter Lesotho?
👉 Many nationalities (including South Africans) don’t need a visa, but others do. Always check the official Lesotho visa requirements before traveling.
Q4. Can I take a shuttle instead of driving?
👉 Yes, seasonal shuttle services are available from Johannesburg and Durban directly to Afriski.
Q5. Is a 4×4 required to reach Afriski?
👉 Not always, but during winter a 4×4 or snow chains are highly recommended due to icy mountain roads.
✨ Getting to Afriski Mountain Resort in 2025 is straightforward if you plan ahead. Whether you fly into Johannesburg, self-drive through the scenic Maluti Mountains, or book a shuttle, the journey is part of the adventure—and once you arrive, you’ll be skiing on the only snow slopes in Southern Africa.
