Eswatini (Swaziland)

In April 2018, King Mswati III made the historic announcement that the name of the kingdom of Swaziland changes to “The Kingdom of Eswatini,” meaning “place of the Swati people.” Eswatini refers to the name for the kingdom in the iSwati language.

Eswatini (Swaziland) is the smallest country in the southern hemisphere and one of the few remaining kingdoms in Africa. A special country, enclosed by South Africa and Mozambique, with a vibrant culture, lots of wildlife, beautiful nature, friendly people and excellent handiwork.

Eswatini (Swaziland) is the smallest country in the southern hemisphere and one of the few remaining kingdoms in Africa. A special country, enclosed by South Africa and Mozambique, with a vibrant culture, lots of wildlife, beautiful nature, friendly people and excellent handiwork.

In Lobamba Village you will find the Royal Palace which is sometimes open to the public (taking pictures is not allowed). Do you want to know more about the history of Eswatini? Then visit the National Museum in Lobamba. For those interested in the culture of the Swazis, a so-called Umphakatsi Cultural experience (ao at Mlilwane) is definitely worth it. The best singing and dancing in the country can be found at Mantenga Cultural Village.

The Hlane Royal National Park is the largest in the country with an area of 22000 hectares and here you can find four members of the Big Five (elephant, leopard, lion, rhino). Swaziland is known for its good ability to see rhinos (especially Mkhaya Game Reserve). In most reserves you can search for wild animals by 4×4 or on foot with experienced guides. The Mlilwane Game Reserve also offers the possibility for safaris on horseback. Prefer to walk in nature yourself? Then choose the Mbuluzi Game Reserve with many hiking trails. For bird lovers, Swaziland is truly a fantastic place since there are around 500 different species. In the spring and summer, the Malolotja nature reserve is the place to be with beautiful flowers and plants in bloom. You will find aloes and orchids here.

Eswatini is famous for its crafts and especially the beautiful baskets, but also the glassware (visit Ngwenya glass factory), sculpture and wood carving are admired by many. You will probably come home with a nice souvenir!
Add to my travel plans