Maseru sits at 1,600 meters above sea level, giving it a temperate highland climate with four distinct seasons and temperatures far cooler than its latitude would suggest.

Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms that arrive with clockwork regularity, making a waterproof jacket as essential as sunscreen during the December-to-March period.

Winter nights regularly drop below freezing, with occasional snow dusting the city, while summer days reach a pleasant 25-30°C without the oppressive heat typical of lower-altitude southern African cities.

The high altitude means intense UV radiation year-round and low humidity that makes the air feel crisp, though strong winds sweeping across the Lesotho highlands can make temperatures feel significantly colder than the thermometer reads.

Layering is the unofficial uniform of Maseru residents, as a single day can swing from frost at dawn to comfortable shirtsleeve weather by noon, then back to coat-requiring cold by sunset.