Lesotho is the only country entirely surrounded by South Africa.
Lesotho is an enclaved, mountainous kingdom in southern Africa. Its territory is enclosed on every side by South Africa, making it one of only three sovereign states completely surrounded by another country; the others are Vatican City and San Marino, both surrounded by Italy.
The country was formerly known as Basutoland. It became a British protectorate in 1868 and gained independence as the Kingdom of Lesotho on October 4, 1966. The nation retained a monarchy after independence.
Lesotho’s high elevation gives it the nickname “Kingdom in the Sky.” Its lowest point is around 1,400 metres above sea level, the highest such lowest point of any country. The Maloti Mountains dominate the landscape, and the country’s water resources support the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, which transfers water to South Africa while generating hydroelectric power.