By Tokiso “TKay” Nthebe, The Finance Traveller
The Finance Traveller’s Briefs | July 2026
4-minute read
Planning your first AfriSki trip? Here’s what a local wants you to know before you drive into Lesotho’s winter wonderland.
There’s something special about driving into the Maloti Mountains during winter. The roads climb higher. The temperatures drop. The landscape transforms. And eventually, the possibility of snow becomes very real.
AfriSki Mountain Resort, located at approximately 3,220 metres above sea level, is one of Southern Africa’s most unique winter destinations and one of the experiences that makes Lesotho such an extraordinary place to visit. But beautiful destinations come with their own realities.
After several trips to AfriSki and conversations with first-time visitors, I’ve noticed that the difference between a stressful trip and a great one often comes down to preparation. So, as a Mosotho, travel storyteller and The Finance Traveller, here are 10 practical tips I wish every first-time AfriSki visitor knew.
1. Allow Extra Time at the Border
For many visitors travelling from South Africa, Caledonspoort Border Post is the gateway into northern Lesotho. Winter weekends, public holidays and major snow events can mean increased traffic and longer processing times.
Local tip: Start early, check border operating hours before you leave and build some flexibility into your itinerary. The journey is part of the experience, there’s no need to rush it.
2. Check the Weather Before You Leave
Mountain weather can change quickly. A beautiful morning can turn into snowfall, poor visibility or challenging road conditions within hours. Check the forecast before setting off and pay attention to road conditions and local travel advisories.
Snow makes for incredible photographs. It can also make mountain roads challenging.
Respect the conditions.
3. Book Your Accommodation Early
AfriSki is particularly popular during winter, and accommodation at the resort can fill up quickly. If you can’t find availability at the resort, consider accommodation around Butha-Buthe or Leribe and plan your daily drive accordingly. Don’t wait until the last minute if you’re travelling during peak snow season.
4. Fuel Up Before Moteng Pass
This is one of the most important local tips.
Don’t start the climb to AfriSki without enough fuel.
Butha-Buthe is an important opportunity to refuel before continuing towards the mountains, and there are limited services as you get closer to the resort. Mountain driving can also consume more fuel than you’re accustomed to.
Fuel up. Then head for the mountains.
5. Dress for 3,000+ Metres Above Sea Level
You’re not just visiting a winter resort. You’re heading into the highlands. At roughly 3,220 metres above sea level, temperatures can fall well below freezing. Pack layers and don’t underestimate the cold:
- Thermal base layers
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof outerwear
- Gloves
- Warm socks
- Beanie
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
And yes, sunscreen. Snow reflects sunlight, and the high-altitude sun can be surprisingly intense.
6. Pack Water, Snacks & Patience
Mountain travel requires a little flexibility. Snowfall, road conditions, traffic and heavy vehicles can affect your journey through places such as Moteng Pass. Carry water, snacks and anything essential that you may need if the journey takes longer than expected. A little preparation can make a big difference.
7. Carry Some Cash
Cards are widely accepted in many tourist establishments, but don’t rely entirely on electronic payments. Network interruptions can happen, and there are limited banking facilities as you head deeper into the mountains. The Lesotho loti and South African rand are both commonly used in Lesotho. Think of cash as your backup plan.
8. AfriSki Is More Than Snow
Yes, come for the snow. But don’t leave without experiencing the destination itself. Try skiing or snowboarding. Take a lesson. Go snow tubing. Enjoy a meal overlooking the mountains. And when the activities are done, slow down. Watch the sunset. Take in the landscape. Meet other travellers. Sometimes the best part of a trip is what happens between the activities.
9. Respect the Mountains and the Community
The Maloti Mountains are breathtaking, but they demand respect. Drive carefully. Follow road safety guidance. Respect local communities and support local businesses where possible. And please:
Do not litter.
Responsible tourism isn’t just about protecting beautiful landscapes. It’s about ensuring tourism creates value for the communities and people who call these places home.
10. Don’t Forget Why You Came
Take the photos.
Make the videos.
Build the snowman.
Laugh until you’re freezing.
But every now and then, put the phone down.
Look around.
You’re standing in one of Africa’s most remarkable mountain landscapes.
The greatest souvenir isn’t always something you buy.
Sometimes, it’s simply the memory of being there.
How Much Should You Budget for AfriSki?
As The Finance Traveller, this is probably the question I get asked most:
“How much does an AfriSki trip cost?”
The honest answer is: it depends.
Your budget will vary depending on where you stay, how you travel, what activities you choose and how long you stay. But before you leave, build your budget around:
- Transport & fuel
- Accommodation
- Food & refreshments
- Ski passes and equipment
- Winter clothing
- Activities
- Travel insurance
- Emergency cash
- Souvenirs & extras
And this is where the finance-led travel philosophy comes in. Travel planning isn’t about finding the cheapest possible trip. It’s about understanding what the experience will cost before you go, deciding what matters to you, and spending accordingly.
Travel isn’t about spending more. It’s about spending intentionally.
Why AfriSki Is Worth the Journey
AfriSki is more than a ski resort. It’s a road trip through some of Lesotho’s most dramatic landscapes. It’s snow in Africa. It’s mountain air, Basotho hospitality, adventure and the kind of scenery that makes you stop the car just to take it all in.
And for those of us who call Lesotho home, destinations like AfriSki are also a reminder of the incredible tourism potential sitting right on our doorstep.
We have extraordinary stories to tell.
Our responsibility is to tell them well, welcome visitors warmly, support local businesses and help create tourism experiences that benefit both travellers and communities.
So if you’re planning your first AfriSki adventure, I hope these tips help you travel with confidence, plan your money wisely and experience Lesotho fully.
And if you’re a local who has another AfriSki tip, share it.
Because sometimes the best travel advice comes from someone who’s already driven that road.
Planning your AfriSki escape?
Explore more Lesotho travel guides, destination stories, travel budgets and practical tips from The Finance Traveller.
Travel smarter. Spend smarter. Live intentionally.
To more adventures. To more escapes. 🇱🇸💙
#EscapesWithTKay #TheFinanceTravellersBriefs #AfriSki #VisitLesotho #LesothoTravel #TravelAfrica #FinanceAndTravel #LesothoTourism.
Leave a comment