The engines are getting ready to roar again as the Roof of Africa returns to Lesotho from September 23 to 26, 2026, bringing another round of world-class hard enduro racing to the Kingdom in the Sky. Lesotho is preparing to welcome riders, teams and spectators from around the world.
The legendary hard enduro event returns at an exciting time for Lesotho. This year's Roof forms part of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, bringing an even bigger international spotlight to the Kingdom in the Sky and giving riders the opportunity to compete for valuable championship points.
Known for its unforgiving mountain terrain, steep climbs, rocky trails and unpredictable conditions, the Roof of Africa has earned its reputation as one of the world's toughest hard enduro races. For riders, it is a serious test of skill, endurance and determination. For spectators, it is days of action in some of Lesotho's most spectacular landscapes.
But the Roof is becoming about more than what happens on the mountain. The event continues to play an important role in Lesotho's tourism sector, bringing international and local visitors who spend on accommodation, food, transport, fuel and other services. During the press conference, LORA highlighted the economic activity generated by the 2025 event, with an estimated contribution of M56.7 million to businesses and services connected to the competition.
For the country's tourism industry, this creates an opportunity to turn race visitors into tourists. With its mountains, rivers, scenery and distinctive Basotho culture, Lesotho has plenty to offer beyond the race routes. Visitors are being encouraged to explore the country, experience local cultures and discover some of its tourism attractions while they are here.
The excitement will also reach the public before the main race begins. A motorcycle parade on September 19 is expected to bring the Roof closer to the people, with the parade scheduled to end at Maseru Mall. It will give members of the public an opportunity to see the motorcycles up close and get a taste of the atmosphere ahead of race week.
The Roof will be supported by partners including KTM, Mortul, ZMG Isuzu, Avani, LTDC and Econet Telecom Lesotho, alongside the Government of Lesotho and other stakeholders.
LesRock is partnering with stakeholders to bring entertainment and quadbikes ride for this year's experience, with activities planned in Roma, including performances by local artists and DJs. Community initiatives are also being planned, including food distribution and clothing donations as part of efforts to ensure that the event has an impact beyond sport.
The Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission (LSRC) has also highlighted the importance of sport tourism to the country and encouraged Basotho to support the National Sport Raffle by dialling *320#, an initiative aimed at strengthening funding for sports development.
With international competitors expected to join local riders, anticipation is already building around who will take on Lesotho's demanding terrain this year.
The Roof of Africa has become one of the country's most recognisable events, a meeting point for sport, tourism, entertainment and community. And as the world of hard enduro turns its attention towards Lesotho once again, the Mountain Kingdom is preparing to show exactly why the Roof belongs here.
September 23–26. One of the world's toughest terrains. The Roof of Africa is coming.
