Most adventurers who have experienced Lesotho’s stunning beauty; particularly her mountain landscapes and the friendliness of Basotho people, return home filled with lifelong memories. Those who keep coming back, do so as a result of a magical energy that works like a rubber band, the further one moves away the greater the desire to return.
We can attest to the magnetic pull of the Mountain Bike Kingdom. Read about our adventures here.
The routine of many mountain bikers relies on driving to and from resorts with purpose built trails. Being able to access community land, without fences, and crossing high mountains and deep valleys without restrictions is something that is not easily achieved – until you reach Africa’s Mountain (Bike) Kingdom: Lesotho.
The routes of the Lesotho Sky Event are known to be spectacular and challenging, remote and exhilarating. Throughout the year, the trails are used by the Basotho people and their animals. Countless feet and hooves have shaped a network of routes across the entire country. Every year, the organisers choose a combination of new and old trails that connect the different base camps of the event. As a result of weather, ploughing, and new routes being successfully scouted and introduced by the organisers, the Lesotho Sky route has never been exactly the same year-on-year. Riders are signing up for six full days of mountain (bike) magic broken down into stages of approximately 50 kilometres in length.
Some facts about the event:
- It was started by riding buddies and varsity friends Christian Schmidt and Darol Howes in 2011
- Christian spent five years of his childhood in a Lesotho village called Morija and this, together with his passion for cycling, are the foundation of the Lesotho Sky Event
- It started out as a race: with teams of two competing for glory with 22 riders from 5 nations
- From 2012-2018 the event grew significantly and was awarded UCI status which resulted in the participation of local and international pro-riders
- At its peak it had 100 riders from various countries
- They had routes around Maseru, the capital of Lesotho in years past, which proved challenging with various road closures
- There was no event in 2020 and since 2021, the Lesotho Sky is a now a guided mountain bike ride, without official timing.
A Unique Bike Experience
This year there is capacity for only twenty riders! The small numbers of participants is intentional and allows more flexibility with routes and nicer (and more remote) accommodation options. The focus is on a unique bike experience and the entry package includes mechanical support and daily massages. The event takes place from Monday 11 – Saturday 16 September 2023.
What is Included
- Seven nights accommodation, three meals a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
- Five riding days + one moving/rest day = six days of REAL mountain biking
- Amazing options for supporters & families including rock pools, water falls, shorter rides, pony treks, trail runs & hikes (booked separately on request)
- Limited to 20 riders
- Transport of luggage between the base camps
- The 1st night (Sunday, 10th Sept 2023) BEFORE the first stage and the 7th night AFTER the final stage (Saturday, 16th Sept 2023) are included in your package. You don’t want to miss out on the legendary bonfire night and leave relaxed, after breakfast, on Sunday morning.
- A challenging route with optional Strava segments. Timing is not compulsory. Prizes awarded at discretion of organisers.
- One or two water points per day with plenty of drinks, water and a variety of snacks sweet and savoury
- A world-class GPS mountain bike route
- 4×4 Safety vehicles including professional medical support
- Professional Bike Guides from Lesotho (there will be 3 groups for slow, medium & fast riders). If you manage to beat the fastest rider from Lesotho, you may expect a special award.
- Basotho riders are not only fast but will keep you good company and make sure every rider (and bicycle) makes it to the finish
- A daily route briefing with pictures from the days riding
- A professional photographer will capture epic scenery, culture and of course amazing riding shots. Various formats of the media teams work will be available to you after the event
- An experience of a lifetime riding though villages (eagerly awaiting your arrival) and breathtaking roads, single track, goat paths under the watchful eye of the Maluti Mountains.
- Mechanical support provided by Lesotho Bike Hangar: included is a daily wash & lube. Spare parts or major servicing will be charged at fair rates for labour and parts.
- Massage and physio services (30min – 45min daily massage is included), extra may be booked and paid if space is available
Not Included in the entry fee:
- Airport transfers to/from Maseru International Airport (MSU), Johannesburg O.R. Tambo (JNB) or Bloemfontein (BFN)
- Transfers to/from the start of the event for riders WITHOUT their own vehicle – Additional drinks, snacks at the base camps
- Alcoholic beverages at the base camps
Prices for 7 nights, 3 meals a day:
- Riders solo lodged : ZAR 29 950 PP
- Riders sharing lodged : ZAR 28 900 PP
- Supporters sharing lodged: ZAR 7000 PP (sharing, incl. meals)
E-Bike Friendly
You are welcome with your E-Bike, a full suspension is a MUST. Lesotho’s trails are technically demanding and you should be comfortable with riding up and down steep and narrow single track. Regardless of which bike you ride, this is NOT a ride for beginners. The longest stage is approx 60km and should you require an additional battery you may give it to the water point crew.
Come and experience the magic and awesomeness of the Kingdom in the Sky!
More information and entries:
