Katse Dam
One of the most ambitious engineering projects ever undertaken in South Africa, the Katse Dam is Africa's second-largest double-arch dam. Some 710 meters long and 185 meters high, it consists of a deep, zigzag, ribbed reservoir that extends more than 30 kilometers along the Malibamat'so River when full and has a total surface area of 38.5 square kilometers.
Visitors taking the A25 from Maseru will pass the tunnel's intake tower on the left as they cross the reservoir on the Mphorosane Bridge near Ha Lejone, about 30 kilometers before reaching the dam. Also visible from the bridge is a cluster of circular fish farms that produce the famous salmon in Lesotho.
The highlight of a visit to the dam is the Katse Botanical Garden. Known as the highest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere, it sits at 2,230 meters adjacent to the village of Katse, and it spans over 17 hectares of steep terraces interwoven with well-maintained footpaths.
The garden protects more than 500 species of native plants, including various proteas, aloes, lilies, and red-hot pokes. Particularly striking is the orange-flowered spiral aloe, the national flower of Lesotho. You should also lookout for the pink Lesotho lily, the exotic pineapple flower, and the snake aloe plant with its unique long-legged inflorescence.
The garden has a beautiful location, attracting enchanting birds such as the Cape and the brilliant yellow sunbirds that hover among the flowers in search of nectar.
Location: Malibamat'so River, Lesotho
