Travel and Tourism in Lesotho

Investment to further the development of travel and tourism

Travel and tourism is amongst the industries that are hoped to form the basis for Lesotho’s economic development following the recent inflow of foreign capital. The industry, which has remained trivial over the years due to low levels of development, has been identified as one of the main drivers for the nation’s growing economy. The government has pledged its support to develop travel and tourism in the country and sees the private sector as a key player in driving the industry’s growth. It has embarked on a number of measures to encourage active private sector participation in the development of travel and tourism. For example, it has put in place investment incentives to lure private investors to the hospitality industry.

Contested cable car gamechanger for mountainous regions

The plans for a 7km cable car route to the top of one of Lesotho’s prime attractions have recently changed to include another 5km to reach the ski resort in Afriski as well as the so far failed golf resort near the town of Bergville. Although the cable car would profoundly change the outlook of the area and most certainly be a major driver of tourism, many are concerned that it would destroy this untouched natural area. The implementation of the cable car – which seems now more or less certain – would bring with it an abundance of opportunities of hotels, tours and other tourist attractions.

Diamonds fuel overall economic growth

A recently signed major contract between the Lesotho government and Meso Diamonds, a subsidiary of global Paragon Diamonds Limited laid down the terms and conditions of a 10-year lease to extract diamonds on Lesotho soil. The deal is seen as a major step in utilising so far untapped natural resources in Lesotho, and may, according to the government, further economic growth considerably. The inflow of foreign capital is very much welcome in Lesotho and could extend further efforts to increase allocations to the growing travel and tourism market.

Online efforts to boost Lesotho’s tourism potential

Despite showcasing the nation’s tourism products at travel and tourism fairs, the country’s tourism potential has not been fully recognised in the international arena, due to a lack of modern technology. The Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) is responsible for the marketing and promoting of Lesotho as a tourism destination. In a bid to enhance the global visibility of the country, the national tourism body has created a new standalone website to help provide ample information to tourists about the travel and tourism services offered by businesses in the country. Since its launch, the website, which can be found at www.visitlesotho.travel, has helped in promoting Lesotho as a destination of choice for tourists. It is also expected to serve as a key marketing tool for the industry and may also improve online bookings in the future.

Travel and tourism has bright long-term prospects

Travel and tourism in Lesotho has potential for further development. The outlook for the industry is positive, due to government efforts to promote the nation, also known as the “Kingdom in the Sky”, as an attractive tourist destination. It has identified tourism as an important source of growth and job creation for the medium-term, particularly in rural areas. The government is also promoting environmentally sustainable tourism development through engaging in projects such as the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. The provision of high quality service and the creation of a positive environment for private sector investment could see Lesotho become one of the leading tourist destinations in the region. In addition to this, the number of visitors arriving from South Africa provides further opportunities to improve inbound tourism growth in the future.

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