Oxbow of the Senqu — Lesotho Highlands Upper River Bend Viewpoint

Sitting at roughly 2,900 metres on the edge of the Maluti highlands, the Senqu River oxbow near Oxbow (Moteng) is one of the most recognisable landmarks on the northern route into the Lesotho roof. The river carves a tight horseshoe through basalt grassland, framed by 3,000m peaks — it’s a genuine stop-the-truck moment. The Oxbow Lodge here has historically served as the last reliable fuel and resupply point before heading deeper into the highlands toward Mokhotlong. Cold beers, basic rooms, and critical intel from other overlanders passing through.

The road in from Butha-Buthe is paved to Oxbow, but deteriorates quickly beyond. Fuel availability can be unreliable — treat Oxbow as your top-off point regardless of what the gauge says. Snow can close the plateau roads between June and August; check local conditions at the lodge before committing to the high route east.

Last fuel before the roof swallows you.