Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Lesotho

Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Lesotho

Traveling through Lesotho, known as the “Kingdom in the Sky,” can be both an adventure and a challenge. Whether you’re exploring the towering peaks of the Drakensberg mountains or navigating the streets of Maseru, having the right apps can make your trip smoother. Below is a list of must-have travel apps and tools that’ll help with everything from finding your way to communicating with locals and booking accommodation. These apps are functional, easy to use, and essential for exploring Lesotho hassle-free.

Navigation Apps for Making Your Way Around Lesotho

Google Maps (Free)

Most people already use Google Maps, but it’s an absolute essential when traveling through Lesotho. The app allows you to download offline maps, which is especially useful because internet connections in Lesotho can be unreliable in rural areas.

It also gives you an option to find routes for walking or driving and even public transportation in the capital, Maseru.

Maps.me (Free)

Another excellent offline map option is Maps.me. This app works entirely offline, so you don’t need mobile data to find your way. Just download the Lesotho map when you’re connected to WiFi, and you’re good to go.

You’ll get turn-by-turn directions for all your adventures, whether you’re driving, biking, or walking. It’s also more detailed than Google Maps when it comes to hiking trails, making it ideal if you plan to explore Lesotho’s countryside.

Waze (Free)

If you’re renting a car and driving through Lesotho, Waze is a helpful tool. The app uses real-time data from other users to alert you about road conditions, traffic jams, and safety hazards. While the routes in Lesotho are often quiet, Waze is great for navigating Maseru’s busier streets.

Translation Apps to Bridge the Language Gap

Google Translate (Free)

Although English is widely spoken in Lesotho, people in smaller villages may speak primarily Sesotho. Google Translate can help you out in a pinch. You can download the Sesotho language pack ahead of time so that it works offline when you don’t have internet access.

It also has a conversation mode, making it easier to have real-time interactions with locals without fumbling through words.

Microsoft Translator (Free)

Microsoft Translator is another great tool. Like Google Translate, it offers offline language packs, including Sesotho, so you can use it even if you don’t have WiFi or data. The app also has a voice translation feature that’s handy if you’re trying to communicate quickly in person.

SayHi (Free)

SayHi offers voice translation for times when you need to have a spoken conversation. It’s easy to use—just speak into the app, and it will translate into Sesotho or English, depending on your needs. It’s helpful for short interactions and is highly accurate, even when you have a strong accent.

Booking Apps for Hotels, Flights, and Car Rentals

Booking.com (Free)

Booking.com is one of the best apps for reserving hotels and guesthouses in Lesotho. The app gives you access to user reviews, detailed info on amenities, and flexible booking options. Your reservation is often confirmed instantly, providing stress-free accommodation planning.

Plus, it allows free cancellations on many properties, which is a bonus if your plans change.

Airbnb (Free)

Airbnb is a growing option in Lesotho’s capital city, Maseru, and other urban areas. If you want a more authentic experience by staying with locals, or if you simply prefer apartments over hotels, Airbnb gives plenty of options in different price ranges. The app allows you to communicate directly with hosts to ask questions or arrange your check-in.

Skyscanner (Free)

If you’re flying into Lesotho, Skyscanner helps you find the best deals on plane tickets. The app scans various airlines and discount sites to find the lowest prices. You can set alerts to monitor price changes, ensuring you grab the best option. It also helps you compare flights based on layover times, seat options, and baggage policies.

Rentalcars.com (Free)

If you’re planning on road-tripping around Lesotho, Rentalcars.com is the best app for comparing and reserving rental cars. The app shows prices from multiple car rental companies, so you can see all the available options in one place. Many bookings also come with free cancellations, giving you flexibility.

Local Transportation Apps for Getting Around

Bolt (Free with Ride Costs)

When traveling in Maseru, Bolt (formerly Taxify) is a rideshare app that works well. It’s very similar to Uber and allows you to book cars directly through the app. Payments can be made via credit card or in cash, which is helpful if you’re not always carrying large amounts of local currency.

More convenient than hailing a cab, Bolt gives you the driver’s contact info and live tracking, so you know exactly when your ride will show up.

Lei (Bus Service App) (Free)

Lesotho isn’t known for its extensive public transportation network, but if you’re in Maseru, Lei is a useful app for checking bus schedules. It provides real-time info on different routes available in and around the city. While not extensive, the app is very helpful for anyone looking to explore without renting a car.

Moovit (Free)

If you’re relying on public transportation, Moovit is a valuable tool. It offers info on bus and taxi routes in Maseru, letting you know which is the quickest or the least crowded. The app updates in real time, so you’re always aware of any delays or last-minute route changes.

Currency Converter Tools

XE Currency (Free)

Currency conversion is important for any foreign trip, and XE Currency is one of the best apps for keeping track of exchange rates. The app works offline, using the latest exchange rate data from when you were last online.

This is especially helpful in Lesotho, where the currency (Lesotho loti) is pegged to the South African rand. XE lets you quickly convert between the loti, rand, and other popular currencies during your trip.

OANDA Currency Converter (Free)

Another good option is OANDA. The app provides real-time currency conversions and allows you to track multiple currencies at once. Like XE, OANDA also continues to work when offline, as long as you’ve refreshed your data before disconnecting from WiFi.

Payment and Banking Apps

Revolut (Free and Paid Options)

Revolut is perfect for travelers who want to handle their money efficiently. This app allows you to manage multiple currencies, including the loti, and offers foreign exchange services with minimal fees. You can top up your account quickly via a local bank card, make payments, or withdraw cash from ATMs in Lesotho. The app has a free tier, but the paid version offers better exchange rates.

Wise (Free with Transfer Fees)

Wise is great for sending money to and from Lesotho, whether you’re making payments or need local currency. Its international money transfers come with minimal fees and good exchange rates. Wise also gives you a multi-currency account to hold and manage funds. Whether you need to pay a local guide or rent equipment, it’s a secure and fast option.

Safety Apps

First Aid by the American Red Cross (Free)

Lesotho offers thrilling hikes and adventures, but accidents can happen. The First Aid app by the American Red Cross is a must-have for situations where medical help isn’t immediately available. It provides basic first aid instructions and has emergency hotline numbers you can use anywhere worldwide. The app is free and works without an internet connection after download.

bSafe (Free and Paid)

If you want an extra layer of safety while exploring Lesotho’s remote areas, bSafe is a good app to consider. It helps you share your location with trusted contacts and can send a distress signal if something goes wrong. There is both a free and a paid version, with the paid version offering a longer battery life for GPS tracking and additional features like automatic emergency video recording.

Offline Travel Resources

TripIt (Free with Paid Version)

TripIt organizes all your travel plans in one place. Whether it’s flights, hotels, or rental cars, you can simply forward your confirmation emails to the app, and it will generate a detailed itinerary for you. Even if you lose internet access while traveling, TripIt works offline and still keeps your schedule handy.

Guides by Lonely Planet (Free with In-App Purchases)

When exploring the unknown corners of Lesotho, the Lonely Planet guides can be a lifesaver. The app offers offline city guides and maps for most destinations around the world. While some features are free, there are premium features that require in-app purchases. It’s ideal for discovering top attractions, restaurants, and other hidden gems.