Lesotho Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Lesotho due to crime and health.

Crime

Crime is common in Lesotho. Armed robberies and carjackings happen from time to time. Local police may not have enough resources to respond quickly when crimes occur.

Health

Lesotho’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health facilities, services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are neither well-regulated nor well stocked. Locally available medications may be unsafe. Travelers have the option to enter South Africa for health services.

Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip.

• Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Lesotho.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Lesotho

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Lesotho, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

There are occasional political demonstrations in Maseru. These are usually peaceful, but there is a risk of isolated incidents of violence. Move away from demonstrations or gatherings, particularly if you see the security forces are present. Lesotho successfully held elections in 2022 but has had a history which includes political-related violence in past decades.

Crime

Much of the violent crime in Lesotho is gun crime between organised crime groups. However, foreigners are vulnerable to opportunistic street crime and vehicle crime.

Gender-based violence is very high in Lesotho. Most crimes based on gender are between people who already know each other, but violence towards women and girls happens in all areas of the country.

Mugging and violent vehicle crime

Muggers can target foreign nationals. Do not walk alone in isolated areas or after dark.

Armed carjackers or robbers may try to stop your car or get into it while you are stationary. The danger is greatest in urban areas. Do not stop your car if people try to flag you down and do not give lifts to strangers.

Keep doors locked, windows shut and valuables out of sight. If you are driving across the country:

• try to drive during daylight hours
• take care near border crossings and at road junctions
• be wary of road blocks that need you to stop or slow down

If you are caught up in an attack, do not offer any resistance.

Petty theft and burglary

Take precautions to safeguard your valuables and cash. Leave them in hotel safes, if possible. Keep copies of important documents, including your passport’s photo page and entry stamps, in a separate place.

There is often an increase in thefts, especially burglaries from villas, leading up to the Christmas and Easter holiday periods.

Risk level

Lesotho - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Lesotho due to crime.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs and is prevalent in urban areas.

• Be cautious when out in public places, especially at night
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• Keep valuables with you in your carry-on when travelling and ensure it is secure at all times
• Stay in hotels or accommodations offering good security measures

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and residential break-ins, occurs and often targets foreigners. Hotspots include:

• popular restaurants
• local hotels
• the business district
• poorly lit or unlit roads

Crime is most prevalent in urban areas such as:

• Maseru
• Leribe
• Maputsoe

However, incidents have occurred in remote mountainous areas as well.

Carjacking also occurs.

• Don’t drive after dark
• Always lock windows and doors
• Don’t offer rides to hitchhikers
• Be vigilant when stopping at scenic points or rest stations
• Park in well-lit areas
• There is no visible police presence at night. Remain vigilant at all times
• Exercise increased caution in urban centres
• Don’t walk alone, especially at night
• If attacked or robbed, do not resist

莱索托风险等级为黄色（中风险）。

外交部提醒在莱索托中国公民，密切关注当地安全形势，提高警惕，加强防范，注意安全。如遇紧急情况，请及时报警并与中国驻当地使领馆取得联系。

外交部和驻外使领馆将继续密切关注海外安全形势变化，动态调整有关风险评估，并实时在中国领事服务网等平台发布、更新相应安全提醒，请持续关注。