Border Crossings Between Lesotho and South Africa

The border of the Kingdom of Lesotho is a geographical curiosity, as the nation is an enclave, completely surrounded by the single country of South Africa. The 1,106-kilometer frontier is a dramatic one, defined by the towering peaks of the Drakensberg and Maluti mountain ranges. Your journey into this “Kingdom in the Sky” is a passage from the plains of South Africa into a rugged, high-altitude world.

The main and busiest crossing is at the Maseru Bridge, which connects the two capitals of Maseru and Bloemfontein (via the N8). This is a low-altitude, accessible crossing that handles most of the commercial and commuter traffic. For a more adventurous experience, the Sani Pass is a legendary 4×4 route that winds its way spectacularly up the Drakensberg escarpment, offering breathtaking views. It is one of the most famous border crossings in Africa, but it requires a suitable vehicle and is subject to weather closures. Other crossings like Ficksburg Bridge and Caledonspoort serve different regions.

The relationship between the two countries is one of complete economic integration. Lesotho uses the South African rand, and thousands of Basotho commute into South Africa for work daily. The border posts are therefore busy and functional. Crossing the Sani Pass is a true adventure, while crossing at Maseru is a more standard, if often congested, procedure. This unique border is a gateway to a country of stunning mountain scenery and a resilient highland culture.