reach new heights, experience the mountain marathon
Join us for The Mountain Marathon 21, a remarkable event organized to commemorate the 200 years and beyond of the Basotho nation. This half marathon is more that just a race; it is a celebration of the rich history, vibrant traditions, and unique cultural identity of the BaSotho people.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Showcasing BaSotho Culture
Participants and spectators alike will experience the depth of BaSotho traditions from traditional music and dances to cultural displays. The marathon route, spanning from Ha Noosi Village to Melele Stadium, will take runners through picturesque landscapes, offering a glimpse into the heart of the BaSotho land.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
Historical Significance
Be part of a historic event that commemorates a significant milestone for the BaSotho Nation. Running in The Mountain Marathon 21 means contributing to the preservation and celebration of a rich cultural heritage.
Scenic Route
The marathon will take you though some of the most beautiful and serene landscapes in the region, making for an unforgettable running experience.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the BaSotho culture first-hand. Enjoy traditional performances, learn about the history of the BaSotho people, and immerse yourself in their vibrant traditions.
Basotho Monarchy history
King Moshoeshoe I
1786 - 1870
Moshoeshoe I was the first son of Mokhachane chief of Bamokoteli lineage, he and his followers resided at the Butha-Buthe Mountain and later settled in Thaba-Bosiu in 1824.He was the founder and the Paramount chief of Basotho Kingdom(current day Lesotho) .He was known for his military superiority and diplomatic capabilities. He was a key figure in defending Lesotho against European colonization. He became the first and the longest serving Paramount chief of Lesotho from 1824 to 1870.
King Moshoeshoe II
1938 - 1996
King Moshoeshoe II whose birth name is Bereng Constantine Seeiso was the son of Seeiso Griffith and ‘Mabereng(Seeiso Griffith’s second wife) from the Batlokoa tribe.He was the first King to rule the country that had gained full independence from Britain in 1966.He was the King of Lesotho from 1966 until his exile in 1990.He was reinstated as the King in 1995 until his death in 1996.
King Letsie III
1963 to date
His Majesty King Letsie III is the first son of the late King Moshoeshoe II and Queen Mother Mamohato Bereng Seeiso. He was born at Scott Hospital in Morija on July 17 1963 and named Mohato Bereng Seeiso. He was christened into the Roman Catholic Church as David.
He did part of his primary education at Iketsetseng Private School in Maseru from 1968 to 1972, when he completed Standard Five. He then proceeded to Gilling Castle in the United Kingdom, in 1973, a Roman Catholic School run by order of St. Benedictine in Yorkshire, where he completed his primary education in 1976. He then proceeded to his father’s Alma mater, Ampleforth College in 1977, where he completed his secondary and high school education in 1980.
From 1980 to 1984 he pursued his University education at the National University of Lesotho where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in law.
Between 1984 and 1986 he completed a Diploma in English Legal Studies at the University of Bristol in Britain. King Letsie III later spent a year at the University of Cambridge where he studied Development Studies, completing in 1989. At the same time he enrolled with Wye College of the University of London where he studied Agricultural Economics.
He was installed as the Principal Chief of Matsieng on December 16, 1989. He was sworn into the Office of King on November 12 1990, under the new Office of the King Order NO. 14 of 1990, promulgated on November 6, 1990. He was then named King Letsie III after King Letsie I, the eldest son of King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation. He abdicated on January 25, 1995, the day on which His Majesty King Moshoeshoe II was reinstated.
HOW TO REGISTER
Those interested in entering the marathon, please note the following ticket prices:
21.1KM Race Registration Fees
| Individual Fees | Club Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| Lesotho | R700.00 | R500.00 |
| Rest of African Countries | R800.00 | R600.00 |
| International | R900.00 | R700.00 |
42.2KM Race Registration Fees
| Individual Fees | Club Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| Lesotho | R750.00 | R600.00 |
| Rest of African Countries | R850.00 | R700.00 |
| International | R950.00 | R800.00 |
- BaSotho Tickets: Individual tickets M1,000, Running Club M900
- Rest of Africa Countries Individual Tickets: Individuals tickets M2,500 Running Club M2,000
- International Athletes: M4,500 Individuals within an Organized Running Club: M4,000
Hurry up and get your tickets on or before October 17, 2025
as the participation is limited to 11,000 athletes.
ACCOMMODATION
Please note that The Mountain Marathon 21 can assist with providing accommodation at an additional cost depending on your stay requirements, contact info@mmarathon21.com
JOIN US
Whether you are an avid runner, a history enthusiast, or someone looking to immerse yourself in a
unique cultural experience, The Mountain Marathon 21 promises something for everyone. Lace up
your running shoes and be part of this extraordinary event.
30°06’18.52″S 28°38’58.42″E elev 1856 m eye alt 15.46 km
and ensure its stories live on for generations to come
To recognize and reward the efforts of participants, the following prize money will be allocated for both men and women:
Prize Money
Sponsors and Supporters
The Mountain Marathon 21 is proudly sponsored by Manti Sehloho Construction & Projects and approved by the Federation Athletics of Lesotho, the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture and the other ministries.
How can you contribute to Charity?
The Mountain Marathon 21 supports school going children in providing them with academic support through Manti Sehloho Construction and Projects, their strategic sponsor. By purchasing a donation pack that consists of a t-shirt, golfer and cap, the proceeds will go to sponsoring academically strong students in need. Click here to buy the donation pack!