Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Lesotho mountains in Southern Africa, Semonkong Lodge stands as a beacon for adventure seekers. Recently, the lodge has unveiled a breathtaking short film that captures the essence of an adrenaline-pumping experience – abseiling down the 204-meter cliff beside the Maletsunyane Falls, the longest single drop waterfall in Southern Africa.
This daring feat isn’t just any adventure; it’s a Guinness World Record holder for being the longest commercially operated single drop abseil globally. As the film unfolds, viewers are treated to local tales of the Maletsunyane River, the thrill of the abseil, and the profound connection with nature that comes from such an exhilarating journey.
Descending the uneven cliffside, guests find themselves suspended over an awe-inspiring gorge, with the thundering cascade of water below. It’s an experience that epitomizes ‘Raging to Nature,’ a term coined to describe the sensation of being in harmony with the raw power of the natural world.
The journey to the abseil point is an adventure in itself, requiring a 45-minute 4×4 drive through the rugged terrain of Lesotho’s mountains. As guests arrive at the edge of the gorge, they are greeted by the majestic sight of Maletsunyane Falls plummeting into the depths below.
The descent itself, lasting between 20 to 30 minutes, offers unparalleled views of the waterfall and gorge, providing a perspective unlike any other in the world. Professional guides ensure the safety of each participant, with ropes and harnesses meticulously set up before the journey begins. Along the way, guests are encouraged to pause, take in the scenery, and marvel at the sheer magnitude of their surroundings.
The inception of this extreme adventure dates back to 2003 when lodge owners Jonathan and Armelle Halse, along with local guides trained in mountaineering, recognized the potential of abseiling alongside the waterfall. ‘After exploring the gorge and trekking through the area for many years, we realized that the best way to experience the true force and power of nature was to abseil right alongside the waterfall,’ Jonathan Halse explained.
Since its inception, over 6 300 thrill-seekers from around the world have embraced the challenge of the abseil, making it a must-do experience for anyone visiting Lesotho. Situated in one of Africa’s most remote countries, Semonkong Lodge offers a retreat from the modern world, where the only sounds are those of nature – birdsong, rushing rivers, and the distant clang of sheep bells.
Built on the banks of the Maletsunyane River, the lodge serves as the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, whether by horseback on iconic Basotho ponies, mountain bikes, or by taking on the ultimate adventure – the longest single-drop commercial abseil in the world.
For those daring enough to embrace the challenge, the abseil at Semonkong Lodge offers an unrivaled opportunity to connect with nature in its most exhilarating form. As the short film aptly captures, it’s not just about descending a cliff; it’s about raging to nature and experiencing the untamed beauty of Southern Africa’s landscapes.
Watch the captivating short film here
For more information on the abseil experience, visit: Semonkong Lodge Abseil Information
Booking information: [email protected]
Film Credits:
Film production: Love Africa Marketing
Director/Producer: Nicola Gerrard
Cinematographer/Editor: Sven Musica
Pictures: Sven Musica
