Overall, Lesotho is a safe country for travellers. Internal strife of the kind seen in 1998 is very uncommon and was largely regarded as uncharacteristic of the Basotho. Muggings and opportunistic theft is on the rise in Maseru; be careful if you're wandering around the back streets here or after dark. In the Highlands, however, hikers and campers normally have little more to worry about than snarling dogs and persistent demands for sweets from children. However, it's unwise to show off your wealth too obviously, and don't leave valuables like cameras lying around unattended.