AfriSki Resort, Lesotho.
Skiing in Africa?? You’re kidding right?
Nope.
Last Thursday myself and a bunch of mates left Durban at 2:30am and drove into the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho for an incredible four-day snowboarding trip at AfriSki Resort- complete with tons of fresh powder and off-piste runs!
In fact, we got so much snow we nearly didn’t make it home! And when we finally did manage to make it through the Moteng Pass we must have passed at least ten destroyed vehicles on the side of the road that weren’t as lucky to make it out.
All in all it was an amazing adventure, and something I will never forget. Here’s why:
1. It’s a heck of a lot cheaper than skiing in Europe or North America.
The entire trip including petrol, food, drinks, accommodation, ski-pass, and ski-hire, came to around R4000 ($500).
2. There is just something novel and cool about snowboarding in Africa
When I was at the top of the slope I kept having to remind myself that I wasn’t in Switzerland, but that this was Africa! The guy walking past the slope with a herd of cows helped!
3. It’s only a 6-7 hour drive from Durban and a 3-4 hour drive from Joburg.
Easily doable for a long-weekend trip.
4. The accommodation was great.
I’ve heard the backpackers at AfriSki is pretty grotty, but our self-catering chalet was superb. Good quality linen, clean, warm, with a lovely gas fireplace, and all the amenities you could need.
5. The terrain park is super fun.
If you like hitting a few rails and jumps, then you’re in for a treat. Not crazy massive or technical (compared to places like Aspen or Whistler) but really really fun!
6. It feels like another planet.
With no cellphone reception, and nestled in the mountains of Lesotho, getting away here is a great opportunity to switch off, unwind, and disconnect from the real world for a few days. I found it incredibly refreshing.
7. AfriSki hosts some cool events.
When we were there Red Bull was hosting a snowboarding contest which was open to amateurs and pros alike. I entered my first snowboarding contest and had a blast bombing through the park! Check the dates for more upcoming events.
8. It’s an adventure of note.
Even if you don’t get great snow conditions like we got, I’m pretty sure it’s still a fun trip to do. So grab some mates, pack the car, and head up to AfriSki for some awesome skiing, African style!
