Blog

Artist. Storyteller. Visionary

My name is Majara, a 30-year-old Mosotho artist based in Ha Thetsane, Maseru. Art has been part of my life for as long as I can remember—more than just a passion, it’s how I see and connect with the world.

I began studying Architectural Technology at Lerotholi Polytechnic, but unfortunately had to leave during my second year due to financial constraints. Still, that didn’t stop me. I continued to pursue my love for art—teaching myself, experimenting, and constantly looking for new ways to grow and express my creativity.

What started with sketching and painting evolved into large-scale murals and framed artworks. I find joy in transforming everyday spaces into vibrant, meaningful works of art. For me, every wall, canvas, and surface is a chance to tell a story.

As a young, motivated artist, I bring energy, curiosity, and a spirit of exploration into everything I create. It’s been an honour to bring my work to Malealea Lodge, where the natural beauty and community spirit are a perfect match for my artistic journey.

Today we conquered the mighty Three Peaks – Mount Fuku Fuku and her two majestic sisters – on a truly unforgettable hike from Malealea Lodge. We began by driving about 6.5 km up the rugged mountain road before parking the car and starting our ascent with our wonderful guide, Khomo.

Distance: 8.5 km
Time: ±4.5 hours (including a lunch break, plenty of photo ops, and lots of “just-looking-at-the-view” pauses — definitely not from puffing and panting 😉)
Ascent: 576 m
Descent: 559 m
Toughness: Challenging!

More than a hundred years ago, in 1905, Mervyn came to live in Malealea. He quickly developed a deep love for the land and an even greater passion for road-making. Back then, there were no trucks, no graders—just spades, picks, and wheelbarrows and the community. In order to get building supplies to Malealea, Mervyn had to forge a road from the top of the mountain pass, which he lovingly named “The Gates of Paradise,” all the way down to the village.

Each corner of that dusty road carried a story. One bend was affectionately known as “Tickey Draai”, another “Sixpenny Draai.” At the highest point, on the windswept neck of the pass, Mervyn placed a simple but powerful sign: “Wayfarer Pause, Behold The Gates of Paradise.” (A revamped version is still there ) It's a reminder—to stop, to breathe, to take in the vast beauty before descending into the valley below.

Every now and then, a compliment lands in a way that stays with you — and this one truly did.

This week, we had the pleasure of hosting an overland group who’ve been travelling for six months across Africa, journeying down the west coast from Morocco all the way to Cape Town. Now, they’re on their way back up to Cairo, crossing the continent on a bold and beautiful adventure in their overland truck.

Out of all the places they’ve stayed — and there have been many — they told us that Malealea Lodge is the best place they’ve stayed in Africa so far.

We were deeply moved. And what touched us even more was their kind praise for our team. They spoke of how friendly, helpful, and genuine the staff were, making their time here not only comfortable but truly memorable.

For all of us at Malealea Lodge, it’s moments like these that make it all worthwhile. We pour heart and soul into what we do, and hearing this from such seasoned travellers is the kind of feedback that fuels us for the long journey ahead.

To the group: Thank you. You’ve reminded us why we do what we do. Safe travels on the rest of your epic journey northward — and we hope our paths cross again.

We were invited to capture these powerful images of Basotho horsemen on their way to a funeral — a deeply moving procession steeped in culture and respect. Each man is dressed in traditional Basotho attire, wearing their iconic mokorotlo hats and distinctive wool blankets that tell a story of identity, heritage, and pride.
It was a true privilege and honour to witness this moment of unity and tradition on horseback, set against the breathtaking Lesotho landscape in the Malealea Valley.

Following this invitation, I thought it would be fitting to explore the history of the Basotho Pony. This extraordinary breed, renowned for its endurance and sure-footedness, descends from the Cape Horse—a blend of Arabian, Persian, and Barb bloodlines brought to southern Africa by European settlers in the 17th century. Through centuries of trade, conflict, and adaptation to Lesotho’s rugged terrain, the Basotho Pony evolved into a tough, agile, and dependable mount. By the late 19th century, it had gained recognition as a prized warhorse, particularly during the Anglo-Boer War.

Today, you can experience the strength and spirit of the Basotho Pony firsthand on our Malealea Pony Trekking Adventures, offering everything from single-day rides to immersive six-day journeys through Lesotho’s breathtaking mountains. Whether you’re seeking a short ride or a multi-day expedition, our ponies will guide you deep into the heart of this unspoiled landscape.

Ready to ride? 🐴✨
Book your adventure today and discover Lesotho like never before!

Walk for peace. Walk with purpose. Walk the path of transformation.

Every year on the first Saturday in May, people across the globe take part in World Labyrinth Day — walking labyrinths in a shared moment of mindfulness and intention. At Malealea Lodge, we’re proud to join this global celebration with our very own labyrinth — a truly unique creation made entirely from recycled wine bottles.