What to Wear in Lesotho in Winter: A Detailed Guide

Got a winter trip planned to Lesotho? Lesotho can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 63°F (that's 17°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Lesotho, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Lesotho in winter—whether you're hiking in the Maluti Mountains, visiting the Katse Dam, exploring the Dinosaur Footprints National Heritage Site, or rafting on the Orange River.

🔗 What should women wear in Lesotho in winter?

Lesotho in winter is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: comfortable flats or loafers, light jacket, stylish hat, pashmina, and cardigans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Lesotho has to offer.

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Lesotho can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Lesotho, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Lesotho trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (this is a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Lesotho, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Lesotho. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Lesotho in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 What should men wear in Lesotho in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: button-down shirts or polos, lightweight pants, loafers or dress shoes, sweaters, and light jacket. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Lesotho in comfort and style.

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Lesotho that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Lesotho. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Lesotho, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These would be perfect:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Lesotho will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Lesotho has to offer!