Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)
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Overview
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a beautiful country in Southern Africa known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant traditions. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, wildlife adventures, and scenic retreats.
Top Attractions
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary – Game reserve with diverse wildlife, scenic views, hiking, and birdwatching.
- Eswatini National Museum – Showcasing the country’s history, culture, and traditions.
- Hlane Royal National Park – Protected area with rhinos, giraffes, and antelopes.
- Ezulwini Valley – Scenic valley with luxury resorts and cultural experiences.
- Mbabane – The capital city, known for markets, shops, and cultural attractions.
Culture
- Traditional Ceremonies – Reed Dance Festival, Incwala Ceremony.
- Swazi Heritage – Traditional music, dance, crafts.
- Royal Family – Absolute monarchy led by King Mswati III.
Nature
- Game Reserves – Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Hlane Royal National Park.
- Scenic Landscapes – Mountains, valleys, and rivers.
Economy & Tourism Statistics
- Agriculture – Sugarcane, citrus fruits, and cotton.
- Tourism Impact (Festive Season 2024):
- Visitors – 21,600+ international arrivals.
- Economic Boost – E930 million injected into the economy.
- Room Occupancy – Average 51.4%; B&Bs led at 62%.
Tour Operators
- Exodus Travels – Group tours, cruises, sustainable tourism.
- Indus Travels – Culturally immersive small-group adventures.
- G Adventures – Budget-friendly youth tours.
- On The Go Tours – Guided tours to iconic sites.
- Trafalgar – Group tours and river cruises.
Transport in Eswatini
Airlines
- Eswatini Air – National airline (since March 2023), routes to Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Harare, Lusaka.
- Defunct Airlines – Royal Swazi National Airways, Swazi Air, Swazi Airways, Swazi Express Airways, Air Swaziland, Swaziland Airlink.
Buses
- Local fares vary by route and distance.
- Bus stops located throughout major streets.
- Service hours vary, limited on weekends/holidays.
Boats
- Eswatini Watersports – Kayaks, fishing boats.
- Royal Swazi Spa Marina – Luxury boat rentals.
- Mbuluzi Game Reserve – Guided wildlife boat rides.
- Malandelas Dam – Fishing and relaxation.
- Mantenga Nature Reserve – Scenic boat tours.
Accommodation
Airbnb Options
- Liz’ Cottage (Mbabane) – $34/night, terrace, bathroom, Wi-Fi.
- Lovely Malkerns Cottage – Pool, air conditioning, kitchen.
- Shobalenku Opulent Apartments – 5 bedrooms, balcony, garden.
- House with Pool – 320m², $264/night.
- Villa with Pool – 260m², luxury amenities.
Hotels
- Luxury – Mantenga Lodge, Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge, Benka Lifestyle Luxury Country Cottages.
- Family-Friendly – Ematjeni Retreat, Foresters Arms, Bulembu Country Lodge.
- Budget-Friendly – Lidwala Lodge, Mabuda Farms, Veki’s Village Cottages.
- Unique Stays – Reilly’s Rock Hilltop Lodge, Malandela’s Guest House, Silverstone Falls Lodge.
Historic & Cultural Sites
- Swazi Cultural Village – Traditional architecture & customs.
- Ngwenya Mine – Oldest known iron ore mine (43,000 years old).
- Nsangwini Bushman Paintings – Ancient rock art with scenic views.
National Parks & Nature Reserves
- Hlane Royal National Park – Big 5, birdwatching.
- Malolotja Nature Reserve – Mountain scenery, waterfalls, hiking.
- Mlawula Nature Reserve – Biodiversity hotspot.
Water & Beaches
- No Ocean Beaches – Eswatini is landlocked.
- Alternatives – Lakes, rivers, dams, and waterfalls.
- Nearby Beaches – Found in South Africa or Mozambique.