EARLY RISERS TRAVEL
OVERVIEW
If you’ve ever dreamed of casting dry flies in crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains that feel untouched by time, this is your place.
At Makhangoa Community Camp in Lesotho’s highlands — the Kingdom in the Sky — you’ll fish the Bokong River, a small, intimate system known for its sight-fishing and dry-fly magic. The primary target is Smallmouth Yellowfish, which move into the system in large numbers during the summer months. It’s highly visual, technical fishing in one of Southern Africa’s most spectacular river valleys.
Off the water, the experience is just as rewarding. You’ll stay in beautifully crafted rondavels designed in the style of traditional Basotho homes — rustic in look, but refined in comfort. Freshly baked breads, hearty meals, and thoughtful service make it easy to unwind. Much of the camp team comes from the nearby Makhangoa village, and your visit helps support local development through employment and community projects. It’s a rare blend of world-class dry fly fishing and warm, authentic hospitality in a setting that feels timeless.
Perched on a ridge above the Bokong River, Makhangoa Community Camp offers comfort and character in the heart of the Lesotho highlands. Each stone-and-thatch rondavel accommodates two guests and includes a private bathroom with hot showers and flushing toilets. Verandas overlook the valley, offering a quiet place to unwind after time on the river.
At the heart of the camp is a warm and welcoming communal area with a cozy lounge and an indoor dining space centered around a large wooden table. An outdoor dining area provides a beautiful alternative on warmer evenings, and a traditional wood-fired oven is used to prepare fresh breads, pizzas, and the occasional baked treat.
Just outside, a fire pit sits beside the main lodge — a favorite spot to relax with a drink after a day on the river. And when conditions line up, you may be invited to the “Gin Bar,” a scenic spot higher on the ridge with panoramic views of the Bokong and a few mixers waiting in a cooler.
THE FISHING
Makhangoa Community Camp is home to some of the most unique freshwater fly fishing in Southern Africa. You’ll be fishing the upper Bokong River — a clear, freestone mountain stream best known for its Smallmouth Yellowfish that eat dry flies.
During the warmer months (Nov-Feb), when water levels drop and clarity improves, these fish move into the system in large numbers. Most of your time is spent sight-fishing. You’ll walk and wade, spotting fish from high banks and casting into pools, glides, and gentle riffles. Access to the beats is on foot, with the help of the camp 4X4 to get one closer the beats further from camp. Because of the hilly terrain and high altitude, a decent level of fitness is required to enjoy the fishery.
It’s a visual and technical fishery — casts need to be accurate, drifts clean, and the approach quiet. But when it all comes together and you watch a yellow rise to crush your dry fly in calf-deep water, it’s hard to beat.
The river also holds Rainbow Trout which you will encounter now and then, as well as Brown Trout that can be found further up stream after a decent lengthy hike. Rods in the 3 to 5 wt range with floating lines are perfect. For gear advice or more detail about how the system fishes, just reach out — we’re happy to help you prepare.
GETTING THERE
Makhangoa Community Camp is located in the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, along the upper Bokong River, near Katse Dam.
International guests can fly into Johannesburg (JNB), Durban (DUR), Bloemfontein (BFN), or Maseru (MSU). From there, most guests hire a vehicle for the journey into the highlands but transfers can also easily be arranged.
The final stretch to camp includes rough gravel roads and requires a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle. If you're driving or being transferred in a standard vehicle, a 4×4 transfer from Katse Lodge (which is accessible by regular car).
LET'SFISH
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