Afriski is now Open
The 2026 winter season has arrived and the mountains are calling.
The snow has arrived in Lesotho and Afriski, the premier ski resort in Africa is open. There are lots of important things to know before you book your journey and we here to help. The resort is located in the Maluti Mountains, and is built in a very unique location.
Long before the arrival of the Afriski brand in Lesotho, the Maluti Mountains were untamed with no luxuries seen today. The roads leading up to the now called Afriski were sand and stone with no safety rails, this however did not stop the search for the perfect southern African slope to ski. Tracking back to the 1960s, the Maluti Ski Club was first founded and so began the journey. Then in the 1970s, there were no ski lifts, snowmaking machines, or grooming tractors. Skiers had to physically hike up the mountain after every single run, carrying heavy, vintage wooden skis. Lesotho would be baron and dry at the base of the moutains but covered in lots of snow at the top.
This group of passionate snow lovers were so dedicated that in 1976, the ski mountain, known as “Blunderbuss Slopes”, hosted the Ski Championships organised by the Ski Club of South Africa and the Transvaal Ski Club. The name Blunderbuss was possibly used due to its slang meaning, used to describe a clumsy, wild, or out-of-control skier.
As the years went on, the slopes were gradually developed and people began to bring make shift ski lifts to the mountain. This passion to later resulted in the opening of Afriski in 2002.
After a snow storm in 2017
Marting making snow in 2018. Photo by Shawn van Zyl
The ski resort today is home a 1km main slope and two more beginners slopes to help you develop your skills. The slopes are supplied by several large dams which were built over the years. You have a selection of accommodation to choose from and you can enjoy a good lunch or dinner at Afriski highest restaurant.
By anchoring your upcoming ski trip to Afriski at Camelroc Guest Farm, you can continue this history of passionate snow lovers taking on the Maluti Moutains
Where to stay when visiting Afriski Mountain Resort?
Camelroc Guest Farm offers a selection of accommodation options nestled right against the sandstone mountains of the Eastern Free State. Positioned near the Caledonspoort border post, we offer convenience for travellers heading into Lesotho this 2026 winter season. Avoid the premium resort accommodation prices, choose us as your peaceful basecamp after your action filled day in Lesotho. Located on the border of South Africa and Lesotho, Camelroc Guest Farm is just a short, scenic drive away from the Afriski gates.
Mountains views from the Camelroc Guest Farm chalets
Cozy Chalets Built for Mountain Traveler’s
After an active, freezing day up at the resort, there is nothing better than coming back to a warm home. Our self-catering chalets are fully equipped to handle the mountain climate:
Warm Fireplaces: Toast your toes and dry out your winter gear next to your own indoor fireplace.
Fully Equipped Kitchens: Cook up a hearty family feast with a stove, oven, fridge, microwave, and all the necessary utensils.
Wifi: Share your snowy selfies or trail logs with our Wi-Fi.
When to Leave Afriski and Return to Camelroc Guest Farm?
The drive from Camelroc to Afriski takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather conditions and border traffic.
Heading Out: We highly recommend crossing the border early—around 07:00 AM. This beats the peak border rush, guarantees you a great parking spot at the resort, and gives you a full day on the mountain.
Heading Back: Keep an eye on the clock. It is best to pack up and start your drive back down the pass by 16:00 or 16:30 PM. Mountain temperatures drop rapidly after sunset, forming ice on the roads. Leaving early ensures you cross back into South Africa well before the border closes and in time for a good dinner.
Eating, Drinking, and Playing at Afriski
Afriski hosts two bars, a restaurant, and a cafe that serve a variety of food. The Sky Restaurant is the highest restaurant in Africa, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Then there is the Gondola Bar, which is located on the Afriski slope. The prices can seem a bit high, but the food is good.
Bring my own food: You are allowed to bring your own food but you have to eat it in the designated areas. Same goes for drinks
Ski gear: The resort has a rental shop where you can rent skis, snowboards, and other equipment including bum tubes which is a must do if you are a thrill seeker. The rental shop also offers premium snowboards. Helmets are mandatory if you wish to ride on the freestyle park.
How to dress: Dress in layers. Whilst it is Africa, it can get very cold up top. Some days the sun gets really hot and you can end up skiing in a t-shirt. Which happens, you NEED sunscreen. Please dont underestimate the sun. Lastly, bring sunglasses, the white from the snow reflects the sun and it can be blinding and dangerous.
Vehicle tip #1: While a 2x4 or sturdy sedan can make the drive up the tarred Moteng Pass during clear summer days, a 4x4 or AWD vehicle is highly recommended, especially during winter. Heavy snow or sudden sleet can turn the pass into a slippery hazard.
Vehicle tip #2: If you are traveling in peak winter, pack a set of snow chains in the boot. Security or traffic police may restrict access up the pass to vehicles without them during heavy snowfalls.
Antifreeze: Make sure your car's radiator has a sufficient concentration of antifreeze. Temperatures at Afriski frequently drop well below freezing.
The Drive to Afriski: Border Crossings & Timings
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The Caledonspoort border is typically open from 06:00 to 22:00.
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You will need valid passports for everyone in the vehicle. If you are traveling with minors, ensure you have their unabridged birth certificates. For more information, check out Visit Lesotho’s FAQs
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A small road toll/border entry fee is payable in Lesotho Maloti or South African Rand (ZAR).
You may be required to present your vehicle registration papers (or a certified copy along with a letter of permission from your vehicle finance bank allowing the car to leave South Africa).
