Morija Travel Guide

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Morija, a charming destination in Lesotho, framed by towering mountains, rolling hills, and breathtaking vistas. Read on to discover the best things to do, see, and experience in Morija.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Morija, Lesotho

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Morija, a charming destination in Lesotho, framed by towering mountains, rolling hills, and breathtaking vistas. The town, situated near the capital Maseru, is famous for its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, delicious food scene, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline seeker, or simply looking to unwind and soak up the local culture, Morija has something in store for you. Read on to discover the best things to do, see, and experience in Morija.

Introduction to Morija

Morija is a small village nestled in the Maseru district, Lesotho. Once serving as the capital of the Basotho kingdom, it is now home to the Morija Museum and Archives, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, literature, and crafts. Adventurers and nature lovers will love exploring the Maluti Mountains, hiking or riding through the rugged terrain, and taking in the awe-inspiring views.

List of Places to Visit in Morija

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Morija Museum and Archives: The museum houses a vast collection of traditional crafts, artifacts, and documents related to Lesotho’s history and culture. The highlight of the museum is the display of the oldest surviving copy of the New Testament in Southern Africa, which was translated into Sesotho by French missionaries in the mid-19th century.
  • Morija Cultural Village: Learn about Basotho traditions and way of life by visiting the Morija Cultural Village, the place where the first missionaries settled in Lesotho. The village showcases huts, gardens, and artifacts, which represent the Basotho’s food, clothes, musical instruments, and tools.

Natural Attractions of Morija: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Teyateyaneng: Take a short drive to Teyateyaneng and visit the Malealea and Maletsunyane waterfalls. Explore the surrounding area with a pony trek or a mountain bike adventure.
  • Sehlabathebe National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sehlabathebe National Park presents an unspoiled wilderness landscape, abounding with caves, rock formations, waterfalls, and lakes. The park boasts a diverse collection of flora and fauna, including elands, baboons, and vultures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Morija

  • Sani Pass: Take a day trip to Sani Pass, located on the border of Lesotho and South Africa. Drive or bike up to the Sani Mountain Lodge, the highest pub in Africa, perched on 2874m above sea level. The ascent will reward you with stunning views of the Drakensberg mountains, deep valleys, and streams.
  • Morija Hiking Trails: Embark on one of the many hiking trails than wind through the mountains surrounding Morija. The trails vary in difficulty but they offer spectacular views and a chance to visit traditional Basotho homes.

Best Things to Do in Morija: Activities and Tours

  • Pony Trekking: Discover the dramatic landscape of Lesotho on the back of a pony. The local guides will lead you along picturesque routes and introduce you to the culture of the Basotho people.
  • Cultural Tours: Join a cultural tour and explore the traditional Basotho houses, learn how to prepare their food, brew traditional beer, and weave Basotho blankets.
  • Community tourism: Get a chance for a homestay in one of the surrounding villages within Morija district and immerse yourself into the Basotho culture through various day-to-day activities with the community.

Week-Long Itinerary for Morija

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Morija, check into accommodation, visit museum
Day 2 Hike in the mountains, visit cultural village
Day 3 Explore waterfalls and caves in Sehlabathebe National Park
Day 4 Pony trekking or cycling to Teyateyaneng waterfalls
Day 5 Cultural tour, including preparation of traditional dishes
Day 6 Homestay and community engagement for cultural exchange
Day 7 Departure from Morija

Food and Drink Scene of Morija

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pap and Moroho: Morogo are African greens cooked with a uniquely Basotho flavor. The dish is usually served with pap, a type of porridge.
  • Sesotho sa Mokhoa: A hearty stew made with beef, chicken, or mutton, and vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and beans.
  • Smoked Trout: Taste the local catch, smoked to perfection and seasoned with herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Maluti Beer: A locally brewed beer, named after the Maluti Mountains, that has a unique flavor and aroma.
  • Ginger Beer: A non-alcoholic beverage made with ginger root, sugar, and lemon juice. It is refreshing and quenches your thirst on warm days.

Where to Stay in Morija: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Morija Guest Houses
  • Malealea Lodge and Pony Trek Centre
  • Semonkong Lodge and Pony Trek Centre
  • St. James’ Lodge

What to Buy in Morija: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Basotho Blankets: The colorful woolen blankets, woven with intricate patterns, are an iconic part of the Basotho culture.
  • Handicrafts: Lesotho is famous for its traditional arts, including pottery, beadwork, and wood carving.
  • Mohair Products: Lesotho is one of the largest mohair producers in the world. You can buy mohair scarfs, socks, and sweaters at one of the local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Morija

The Basotho people are known for their warm hospitality and love of music and dance. It is customary to greet people with “Lumela” (hello) and to show respect to elders. The Basotho blanket, which comes in many designs and colors, is a symbol of Lesotho’s history and culture. You can wear a blanket over your shoulder or wrap it around your waist as a sign of respect.

Best Time to Visit Morija

The best time to visit Morija is from September to April. The weather is warm and dry, and the landscape is at its greenest. During the summer months, from November to February, there may be occasional thunderstorms, but they usually clear up quickly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Morija

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites and remove your shoes before entering a Basotho home.
  • Try the local food and drink. Lesotho has a rich culinary tradition, and you should try the Basotho staples such as pap and morogo, and sip on Maluti beer or ginger beer.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially when hiking or traveling in remote areas.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without asking for permission first. It is considered impolite and disrespectful.
  • Hike or bike alone, especially at night or in unfamiliar terrain.
  • Drink tap water. Buy bottled water or purify water before drinking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Morija

Lesotho is a relatively safe country, but it is advisable to take precautions, especially when traveling alone or at night. Always keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Morija

Pack your medication and take precautions against malaria, which is common in Lesotho, especially in rural areas. Drink bottled water and avoid eating food from street vendors, which may not be hygienic.

Getting to Morija: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Morija

Moshoeshoe International Airport is the nearest airport to Morija, situated in Maseru. The airport services both domestic and international flights, including from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya.

Bus Stations Near Morija

There are several bus companies that operate between Maseru and Morija, with buses departing every few hours. You can take a taxi from the bus station to your accommodation in Morija.

Other Options

You can also hire a car, take a taxi or rent a bike to get to Morija. Most car rental companies have offices at Moshoeshoe International Airport.

How to Get Around in Morija

The best way to get around Morija is by car or by foot. The town is small and walkable, and you can explore most of its attractions on foot. You can also hire a taxi or a bike to travel to nearby destinations, such as Sehlabathebe National Park or Teyateyaneng.

Where to Go Next from Morija: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Maseru: The capital of Lesotho, Maseru, is just a short drive away from Morija. Visit the Royal Palace, explore the colorful markets, and taste the local cuisine.
  • Semonkong: Known as the “Place of Smoke,” Semonkong is famous for its stunning waterfalls, including the Maletsunyane Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in Southern Africa.
  • Malealea: Located in the Mafeteng district, Malealea is a popular destination for pony trekking, hiking, and bird watching.

Conclusion

Morija is a hidden gem in Lesotho, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer, or a foodie, Morija has something to offer. So pack your bags, bring your camera and an open mind, and get ready to discover the beauty of Morija, one of Lesotho’s best-kept secrets.