Archive · 21 Jul 2026
Afriski Mountain Resort Attracts Ski Enthusiasts to Lesotho
Afriski Mountain Resort in Lesotho is a unique place where people from all over southern Africa come to ski.
It's the only ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa and is very high up in the mountains, making it cold enough for snow.
The resort has big ski slopes and even makes its own snow when there isn't enough natural snow.
It's a big deal for Lesotho because it brings in tourists and helps the economy.
People who visit love it because it's a great place to learn how to ski, and they also get to try local food and buy traditional Basotho blankets as souvenirs.
It's a fun and exciting place that shows that Africa can have snow too!
Afriski Mountain Resort is the only ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa, located in Lesotho.
The resort is at an elevation of 3,200 meters (10,499 feet) and has ski slopes covering 17 hectares (42 acres).
Tourism contributes about 7% to Lesotho's annual GDP, with Afriski being a significant part of it.
The resort attracts visitors from across southern Africa, with about 70% coming from South Africa.
Afriski relies on artificial snow to ensure skiing is possible throughout the winter.
- Who
- Ski enthusiasts from across southern Africa
- What
- Afriski Mountain Resort in Lesotho
- When
- Between June and August
- Where
- Lesotho, sub-Saharan Africa
- Why
- To enjoy skiing and the snowy landscape
Tourism Benefits
Environmental Concerns
Economic Impact
Tourism Benefits
Afriski Mountain Resort significantly contributes to Lesotho's economy, providing jobs and boosting tourism.
Environmental Concerns
The resort's operations, including artificial snow production, may have environmental impacts that need to be addressed.
- Location
- Afriski Mountain Resort, Lesotho
- Elevation
- 3,200 meters (10,499 feet) above sea level
- Ski Slopes
- 17 hectares (42 acres)
- Annual GDP Contribution
- 7%
- Population
- 2.3 million
- Independence
- 58 years
- Founding
- 200 years
- Visitors
- Over 1,600 day visitors in 2025