While and might spring to mind when considering the world's highest countries, it's actually Lesotho in Africa that takes the crown.

With an average altitude exceeding 1,000 meters across its entirety, this beautiful landlocked country, nestled within South Africa, holds the title of the highest country - no part of it dips below 1,400 meters, even outdoing Switzerland.

Despite not being the most mountainous country on the planet, it's certainly the loftiest, earning it the nickname "The Kingdom in the Sky." But isn't just about statistics; it's a natural haven boasting vast landscapes and a unique ecosystem.

READ MORE:

This under-the-radar travel gem offers a stark contrast to other southern African nations with its blue skies, towering mountains, horse trekking opportunities, and stunning national parks. Home to 2.2 million people, many of its villages are only accessible by horseback, foot or light aircraft.

The Maluti Mountains in Lesotho stretch north to south, forming a high plateau between 9,000 to 10,000 ft high. The peak is Thabana Ntlenyana, standing tall at 11,425ft in the east. The rich volcanic soils of the foothills and mountains are some of the best in the country, reports .

While the highest peak on Earth is found in Nepal, not Lesotho as some might guess, the rest of Nepal's terrain is relatively low, only reaching 60 meters above sea level. To be classified as a high country, the land must have a generally high average altitude.

Take Spain for instance, it sits at an average of 660 meters above sea level, making it one of the most elevated countries in Europe due to its mountainous landscape. Switzerland averages at 1,350 meters above sea level. However, there's only one nation globally where the entire territory is over 1,000 meters above sea level - and that's Lesotho.