3,482 m
Elevation
2,390 m
Prominence
-29.4667°, 29.2667°
Coordinates
Unknown — pre-modern era
First Ascent
About Thabana Ntlenyana
The highest peak in southern Africa, in the 'Mountain Kingdom'. The entire country sits above 1,000 m — the highest lowest point of any country.
Climbing Thabana Ntlenyana: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut
- Do you need a guide?
- Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
- Best season
- Usually September to May.
- Terrain & gear
- Steep trails with scrambling, loose rock or short exposed sections. Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in Lesotho?
The highest mountain in Lesotho is Thabana Ntlenyana, at 3,482 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Thabana Ntlenyana?
Allow 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Thabana Ntlenyana without a guide?
Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
When is the best time to climb Thabana Ntlenyana?
The usual season is September to May. Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Thabana Ntlenyana?
Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
How high is Thabana Ntlenyana?
Thabana Ntlenyana stands at 3,482 meters (11,424 feet).
Where is Thabana Ntlenyana located?
Thabana Ntlenyana is located in Lesotho, within the Drakensberg / Maluti Mountains.
Has Martin climbed Thabana Ntlenyana?
Not yet — Thabana Ntlenyana is still on Martin's list of remaining country highpoints.