When you think of skiing, the first destinations that come to mind are probably the Alps or the Rockies, right? Well, Africa might not be the first place that crosses your mind, but it's time to change that perception! Lesotho, a small African kingdom nestled in the mountains, is home to a skiing paradise just waiting to be explored. Join us as we dive into this fascinating skiing destination, where locals and tourists alike are breaking stereotypes and embracing the sport for all.
You've heard of sand skiing in the desert, but have you ever imagined skiing on actual snow in Africa? Neither did we, until we stumbled upon a hidden gem that's making us rethink our winter vacation plans. Forget the Alps, pack your sunscreen and snow gear, and join us as we embark on a hilariously unexpected African ski adventure. Lesotho's ski scene is not only a hidden gem for tourists but also a melting pot of diversity and inclusion. Make new friends from all walks of life, as you bond over wipeouts and shared laughter. After all, nothing brings people together quite like the universal language of skiing-related mishaps.
Discovering Lesotho's Snowy Playground:
Meet Hamuko Johop, a snowboarding and skiing instructor in the heart of Africa. He proudly refers to the slopes of Lesotho as his playground. As a local, Hamuko doesn't need to fly out for a vacation; he's got it all right here. Africa has five mountain ranges with enough seasonal snow, making it a perfect skiing destination.
First-Time Skiers and Fearless Fun: One of the beginners on the slopes, Mbeziwe Seoko, initially hesitated to try skiing due to her fear of heights. However, with her partner's encouragement, she decided to give it a go. Mbeziwe loved the experience, feeling like a ten-year-old enjoying a new adventure. The transfer of knowledge is the most important aspect of this ski resort. Many people have traveled to experience skiing now the locals have access to an instructor and snow!
Lesotho: A Unique Climate for Skiing: Pieter Peyper, the owner of Afriski Resort, acknowledges that people don't usually associate skiing with Africa. The truth is Lesotho has a unique climate and altitude, sitting at 3,000 meters above sea level, which allows for skiing opportunities. The top of the mountain is at 3,222 meters, making it a fantastic location for winter sports enthusiasts.
Making Skiing More Diverse and Inclusive: The skiing community in Africa is breaking barriers and making the sport more diverse and inclusive. As more people discover Lesotho's skiing paradise, they encourage friends and family to join them on the slopes. By sharing their stories and experiences, the skiing community grows more diverse, and the sport becomes more accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or location.
Skiing in Africa is not just a fun and unique experience; it's also a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion. As the community grows and more people are introduced to the joys of skiing in Lesotho, the sport's landscape becomes more vibrant and exciting. So, if you're looking for a new skiing adventure, why not consider Africa's hidden playground? Happy skiing!
This article contains some stunning photos:-
https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2018/07/afriski-lesothos-only-ski-resort/565361/
Just to remind ourselves where Lesotho is located in South Africa!