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Mohale Dam
Mohale Dam is the second-largest dam in the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and a masterpiece of modern engineering. Standing 145 meters high, it is a concrete-faced rock-fill dam. The resulting reservoir winds picturesquely through deep mountain valleys, creating a remarkable backdrop of deep blue water against rugged mountain ridges. Visitors can join guided tours inside the dam structure to learn about the engineering challenges and the critical role of water export to South Africa. Boat trips on the reservoir are a popular way to appreciate the scale of the project from the water. The surrounding area is excellent for hiking and has fantastic photographic opportunities of the massive dam wall. The infrastructure around the dam includes an information center and several scenic viewpoints. The best time to visit is during the summer (November to March) when water levels are typically high and the weather is mild. It is easily accessible from Maseru via an excellent paved road that traverses spectacular mountain passes.
- Location: Lesotho
- Nearby: Marakabei (12 km)
- Population: ~1.932 (2023)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 16 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 124 | 104 | 83 | 62 | 21 | 20 | 10 | 24 | 24 | 69 | 93 | 116 |
Geography
Facts
- Dam wall height: 145 meters
- Key component of the Highlands Water Project
- Highest concrete-faced rock-fill dam in Africa
- Transfers water to the Katse Dam reservoir
- Construction was completed in 2002
- Offers educational guided tours inside the dam
- Popular spot for trout fishing and boating
- Reached via a scenic, award-winning mountain road
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Frequently asked questions
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