Set in Lesotho’s picturesque Maluti Mountains, Semonkong Lodge offers an authentic African highland experience on the banks of the Maletsunyane River. This family-owned eco-lodge sits encircled by 3,000-meter peaks and provides a gateway to the world’s longest single-drop commercial abseil at Maletsunyane Falls. The lodge features 25 en-suite stone-and-thatch rooms, self-catering dormitories, and a campsite, complemented by the welcoming Duck and Donkey Tavern. Guests can explore the mountainous terrain through activities like pony trekking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and cultural tours, while supporting the lodge’s commitment to sustainable tourism and community development. Semonkong Lodge combines untamed natural beauty with genuine Basotho hospitality, making it an ideal base for adventure seekers and those seeking to disconnect in Africa’s Mountain Kingdom.
Their story
Established in 1990 by Armelle and Jonathan Halse, Semonkong Lodge sits on the banks of the Maletsunyane River in Lesotho’s highlands. Jonathan’s ancestral connection to the region spans five generations, with his great-grandfather present at Lesotho Kingdom’s founding under King Moshoeshoe I. The lodge evolved from Sydney ‘Maluti Syd’ Chaplain’s 1962 camping base into today’s premier eco-tourism destination. Built using local stone and thatch, the lodge specializes in adventure activities including the world-record Maletsunyane Falls abseil, pony trekking, fly fishing, and authentic cultural experiences. Through community collaboration and sustainable practices, Semonkong Lodge has become integral to local development while maintaining its heritage as a comfortable mountain retreat for nature enthusiasts. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The lodge’s accommodation is constructed from locally-sourced stone and sustainably-harvested thatch from the community.
- They maintain a small organic herb and vegetable garden, supporting local food production.
- The lodge operates on limited electricity to reduce energy consumption.
- Their catch-and-release fishing policy helps preserve river ecosystems, while the Maletsunyane River Conservation Fund employs community members for river maintenance.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Semonkong Lodge relies on Lesotho’s national power grid, which operates on a unique daily schedule from 8am to 10pm. Outside these hours, the lodge embraces energy conservation by having no alternate power source.
- This intentional approach aligns with their sustainable ecotourism model and minimizes environmental impact in Lesotho’s remote highlands.
Pioneer in waste management
- The facility operates a detailed sorting system, separating organic waste for composting to enrich their vegetable garden.
- Recyclable materials like glass, plastic, and paper are collected and transported to recycling facilities in Maseru.
- Non-recyclable waste is responsibly disposed of through local waste management services.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Their small herb and vegetable garden follows sustainable farming methods, growing fresh produce without artificial inputs. The lodge sources locally-grown ingredients like wild moroho (spinach), beans and potatoes from the Semonkong community.
- Their kitchen emphasizes using natural, seasonal ingredients in their home-cooked meals.
- They maintain environmentally-conscious practices across all aspects of the property, from food preparation to general operations, avoiding harmful chemicals and synthetic products wherever possible.
Actively protects nature and community
- Semonkong Lodge champions environmental conservation and community empowerment in Lesotho’s Maluti Mountains. The lodge integrates sustainable practices by employing 95% local staff, supporting Basotho pony owners, and maintaining the Maletsunyane River Conservation Fund. They work closely with nearby villages, creating economic opportunities through activities like pony trekking, fishing expeditions, and cultural tours.
- The lodge’s commitment extends to protecting the region’s 250 bird species and 300 endemic plants. This includes Lesotho’s national plant, the spiral aloe.
Most Popular Activities Near Semonkong Lodge
- World record 204-meter waterfall abseil alongside Maletsunyane Falls – one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Africa.
- Guided Basotho pony treks ranging from 1-hour rides to multi-day expeditions.
- Fly fishing for brown trout, rainbow trout and yellow fish in Maletsunyane River.
- Mountain biking on unmarked trails through high-altitude terrain and river crossings.
- 4×4 driving adventures across challenging mountain routes and water crossings.
- Hiking trails exploring the Maluti Mountains and surrounding valleys.
- Traditional donkey pub crawl through Semonkong town.
- Cultural community tours showcasing authentic Basotho village life.
- Bird watching with over 250 species in the highland ecosystem.
- Horse racing events during winter months and King’s birthday celebrations.
Best Time To Visit Semonkong Lodge
- The best time to visit Semonkong Lodge is during Lesotho’s dry winter months from May to September, when temperatures are mild. This period offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities like abseiling, pony trekking, hiking, and mountain biking.
- Summer (November to March) brings afternoon thunderstorms but showcases vivid green landscapes and the Maletsunyane Falls at full force.
- The shoulder seasons of April and October provide pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors.