Lesotho
Health
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical numbers
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
If 112 is not operating, call locally on 80093030121.
You can also access emergency treatment across the border in South Africa. Mediclinic Bloemfontein is a 90-minute drive (140km) from Maseru and has private ambulances.
Mediclinic: +27 51 404 6225
Ambulance: ER24 +27 102053588
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Lesotho
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Lesotho.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Lesotho. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Lesotho
Lesotho has basic medical facilities. Most foreign visitors use healthcare facilities in Bloemfontein, South Africa, a 90-minute drive from Maseru.
In Lesotho, Queen Mamohato Memorial Hospital (+266 2231 3260) and Maseru Private Hospital (+266 2233 3600) are the main hospitals. Both are in the Maseru area. Outside of Maseru there are District hospitals in most of the Districts.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Lesotho where some staff will speak English.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.