Maseru is the capital of the Kingdom of Lesotho, and the largest city in the country with a population of over 230,000. Located at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, it is the country's financial, industrial, and commercial center. The city has a fascinating history, with influences from Britain, South Africa, and Lesotho itself, and offers a wealth of attractions and a vibrant culture. In this text, we'll take a closer look at Maseru and explore the reasons why it's become the country's major urban center.
Getting to Know Maseru
Maseru is the capital city of the Kingdom of Lesotho. It is situated in the Highveld region of Lesotho, on the Caledon River. The population of Maseru is estimated to be around 191,556 according to the 2016 census.
Maseru is part of the South African Standard Time Zone, which is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).
The official language of Maseru is Sesotho, spoken by the majority of the population. English is also widely spoken and is used in most areas of official business.
The currency of Lesotho is the Lesotho loti (LSL). The US Dollar is also widely accepted in Maseru.
Climate and Weather
Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, has a subtropical highland climate. The city sits at an elevation of 1,600m, making it slightly cooler compared with other sub-Saharan African cities. Summers are muggy and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C but falling to around 15°C during the night. Winters are mild, but there can be frosts, light snow and freezing temperatures at night. The average annual temperature hovers around 18°C, and Maseru receives an average annual rainfall of 900mm, with most of the rain falling between October and March. The city experiences winter droughts due to the rain-shadow effect of the surrounding mountains.
Touring Maseru: Airport and Transportation
There is only one airport in Maseru: Moshoeshoe International Airport. You can get from the airport to downtown Maseru by taxi, shuttle or bus. A taxi will cost about LS300 (approximately $20 USD) and a shuttle will cost around LS150 (approximately $10 USD). Currently, there are no available exchange services at Maseru airport.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Maseru
- Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, is rich in history and culture dating back to the early 19th century.
- Visitors to Maseru can explore the city's vibrant markets and unique Sotho culture, or learn more about Lesotho's turbulent colonial past at the National Museum and Archives
- The city is also home to some of the country's most respected music and dance performances, along with festivals and religious ceremonies that showcase the vibrant spirit of the Lesotho people