Thousands Flock To Lesotho's Snow Mountains For Thrills

Thousands are flocking to Lesotho during the winter season to ski in the snow mountains of the landlocked southern African country. Here is CGTN's Jane Keo with the details. One may not expect thousands to flock to Lesotho each year for skiing. But for many ski enthusiasts from across southern Africa, the small landlocked mountain kingdom has become the go-to place in recent years for winter sport enthusiasts. When you think of the African continent, you don't think about snow. You think about the sun and the Sahara. But you can go to all that and also come here and it snows at the same time. It's just mind-blowing. I've been to Europe and I can tell you that it's totally different. The vibe here is way better and I think it's honestly such a privilege having it here. Because I mean a whole ski trip here or you can buy a flight ticket to Europe. Lesotho's high elevation and mountainous terrain combine to make it the coldest country in Africa. Temperatures in the highlands typically plunge to minus 8 degrees Celsius in its winter season between June and August. 2013, probably 2014. 2014 was our first time but we skipped years now and then. But I think this is our eighth time coming here. For many visitors, a free ski is where they had their first ski lessons. Braving falls and dusting themselves off before having another try and another. Until making the first full glide down without falling. At the start it was a little bit discouraging because I mean you fall and you fall hard. But once the people here, they gave me one lesson and after that hour, honestly I felt confident. And from there on it's just slow and steady and you just rinse and repeat until you get it. But it's been a good experience. This is an amazing slope to learn on, honestly. The AfriSki Mountain Resort, some 3,200 metres above sea level, nestled in the northern Maluti Mountains, is Lesotho's single fully operational ski resort and the only one in sub-Saharan Africa. The majestic snow-covered landscape is ideal for skiing for both seasoned and new visitors to enjoy the slopes that are spread over 17 hectares surrounding the resort about the size of 24 standard soccer pitches. Jane Keo, CGTN