How to get an IDP to drive in Lesotho
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A secure way to drive in 150+ countries
What am I getting?
What am I getting?
International Driving Permit (IDP), regulated by the United Nations, certifies that you are the holder of a valid driver's license in your country of origin.
Your IDP is a valid form of identification in more than 150 countries worldwide. It contains your name, photo, and driver information in the 12 most widely spoken languages in the world.
Required by car rental agencies worldwide
You must be 18 years or older to apply
No test is required
How to get your IDP
Fill in the forms
Have your driver’s license and delivery address handy
Verify your ID
Upload pictures of your driver's license
Get approved
Wait for confirmation and you’re ready to go!
Can I buy an International Driving Permit for Lesotho online?
Yes, you can buy international driver permit online directly from our website: https://internationaldriversassociation.com/. Simply click “Apply now” button and start with IDP application process that will take you just a few minutes.
International Driving Permit is regulated by United Nations and is required for driving motor vehicles in foreign countries. Your IDP is a valid form of identification in more than 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information in English and 12 more most widely spoken languages in the world.
Keep in mind that an international driver’s license (IDL) is not a standalone document and is only valid when presented alongside your valid driver's license from your home country.
Which countries require International Driving Permit?
The requirements for an International Driving Permit (IDP) vary depending on the country you are visiting, and in some cases, it may not be necessary at all. However, many countries require foreign drivers to have an IDP in addition to their valid driver's license from their home country.
Here is a list of countries that generally require an International Driving License:
Austria
Brazil
Bahrain
Brunei
Canada
Costa Rica
Chile
Estonia
Gambia
Italy
Japan
Jordan
Kenya
Kuwait
Macao
Malaysia
Moldova
Oman
Panama
Peru
Qatar
Spain
Tobago
Ukraine
Uruguay
Vietnam
Zimbabwe
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and the requirements for an IDP can change without notice. It is recommended to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information on driving requirements.
Top Destinations in Lesotho
Lesotho is one of the best countries to explore by car, and it is also home to many tourist attractions. Guests can revel in the stunning national parks or immerse themselves in the heritage sites’ rich culture. If you want a place with many unique spots and endless activities to do, don’t hesitate to visit Lesotho for a fun and educational experience.
Ha Kome Cave Village
Take a trip to the Ha Kome Cave Village and visit its dwellers, who are the descendants of the first settlers in the area. The caves are considered a National Heritage as they are home to the original Basotho tribe.
There’s a wide array of activities that you can do on-site. You can have a picnic by the Information Center or even share a meal with the locals and witness their culture. You can also go pony trekking if you want to explore the area.
Although you can visit any time of the year, the best times to drop by the caves would be from March and April or September and October when the weather is pleasant. You might want to avoid winter (from June to August), as it can get pretty cold and the road traffic would be difficult.
Sani Pass
The Sani Pass is one of the most scenic yet difficult passes to cross in Africa. It lies between Lesotho and South Africa and is the only route that crosses the Drakensberg Mountain summit. The pass attracts travelers and thrill-seekers worldwide, as the activities there aren’t only limited to off-roading or hiking. Guests can also birdwatch or stop by Sani Mountain Lodge, “The Highest Pub in the World.”
The ideal time to cross the Sani Pass would be during summer, from November to March. Since the weather is dry and rainfall is low. The worst time to visit the terrains would be in winter, from June to August, as the driving conditions become poor and the path becomes prone to accidents.
Sehlabathebe National Park
Sehlabathebe National Park is the oldest nature reserve in Lesotho. It remains unscathed after all these years, making it the perfect place for visitors to unwind. The park is a gorgeous wilderness, with majestic rock formations, rivers, and stunning landscapes that also attract different animals.
Guests can go hiking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing. If they wish to do so, they can also go up to the caves that are home to some of the oldest rock paintings. Make sure to visit Sehlabathebe National Park from May to October, but note that the winter months overlap (June to August), so it might get chilly if you decide to camp in the park.
Semonkong
Located in Thaba Putsoa, Semonkong, which translates to “Place of Smoke,” is a small highland town. It gets its name from the nearby Maletsunyane Falls, wherein the plummeting water creates a spray of mist, thereby birthing the town’s name. Semonkong offers various activities to its guests, including abseiling, horseback riding, cultural tours, and more.
Visitors can room in the rustic Semonkong Lodge, which also hosts many outdoor adventures within the area. Visit Semonkong during the dry months of March and April; not only can you enjoy the warm weather, but you can also avoid any rainfall that can ruin your plans.
Thaba Bosiu
Thaba Bosiu (“Mountain at Night”) is a National Monument located in the Phuthiatsana Valley. The plateau is found 23 km from Maseru and was named as such during the occupation of King Moshoeshoe I. Guests can visit the historical region and do different kinds of things. They can visit the museum and the Royal graves, tour around the cultural village, go pony trekking, and take in the view of the majestic Mount Qiloane.
If you want to avoid any rain, you might not want to go during summer, where the probability of precipitation is high. So the ideal time to visit Thaba Bosiu would be during the dry months of March and April, as well as September and October.
Most Important Driving Rules in Lesotho
Driving in Lesotho can be a bit tricky, but it's still a great way to get around and see more of the country. To keep safe on the roads and avoid trouble, there are some key Lesotho driving rules everyone needs to follow.
Drive Defensively
There is a significant number of Basotho drivers who are infamous for being unruly. Additionally, there are many road traffic hazards like roaming livestock, rubble, and even pedestrians that can cause you to lose control of the wheel. That’s why it’s very important to stay alert and drive defensively in Lesotho to avoid crashes and other forms of road traffic accidents. Also, when you drive vehicles from rental car companies, don’t forget to always carry your important documents to avoid getting fined.
Avoid Driving at Night
Driving at night in Lesotho can get quite dangerous. The streets are mostly unlit, so you won’t see any hazards lying around. There are also high cases of carjacking and other petty crimes. Thus, it’s best to avoid experiencing the nightlife so that you won’t be preyed upon by criminals.
Keep Your Car Doors and Windows Locked at All Times
When mobile, make sure to keep your car doors and windows locked at all times. Carjacking and other forms of robbery are common in the country, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Lesotho’s economy is relatively unstable, which leads to people resorting to crimes and violence.
Ready to check if an IDP is required in your destination?
Use the form and find out in seconds whether you need an international permit. Documents vary, based on the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic.
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