Climate and clothing: Light summer wear is suitable from October to May. Winter clothing is needed from June to September.

Customs: Americans traveling to Lesotho can obtain Lesotho visas on arrival. However, all routes pass through South Africa, and travelers without South African visitors visas are not permitted to leave the international area while transiting Johannesburg Airport. The airport has hotel rooms to accommodate those who remain overnight to make onward connections.

Health: Tapwater is safe in the Maseru area. Medical facilities in Maseru are adequate for emergency treatment, but travelers requiring more extensive facilities may obtain them in Bloemfontein, South Africa, 140 km. (81 mil) away.

Telecommunications: Telephone and telegraphic service is available in and between the larger population areas, but much of the interior can only be reached by radio. Lesotho is seven standard time zones ahead of eastern standard time.

Transportation: Maseru a short flight from Johannesburg. Lesotho Airways operates daily commercial flights to and from Johannesburg. Flights are also available to and from Maputo, Mozambique, by way of Manzini, Swaziland. A new international airport is located 12 miles outside of Maseru. Airstrips are located at Mokhotlong, Sehonghong, Semongkong, and Qacha's Nek. There are 28 other secondary landing fields, suitable only for light aircraft. Maseru has few taxis. Traffic moves to the left. Car rental agencies are available in Maseru.

National holidays: Offices and shops are closed on the following holidays:

New Year's Day, January 1; Moshoeshoe's Day March 12; National Tree Planting Day, March 21; Good Friday, Variable; Easter Monday, Variable; King's Birthday, May 2; Ascension Day, Variable; Family Day, July 7; Independence Day, October 4; National Sports Day, October 6; Christmas Day, December 25; Boxing Day, December 26.

Source: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Public Affairs, August 1990.