Formerly known as Swaziland,Eswatini is a tiny African country that has nothing to envy its neighbors for in terms of scenic beauty. Landlocked between South Africa and Mozambique, the country's mountainous landscapes are interspersed with lush valleys inhabited by exceptional wildlife. Expect memorable encounters: rhinoceroses, elephants and felines can be spotted on numerous safaris. Among its magnificent national parks and nature reserves, Eswatini has much to offer. Discover the most beautiful places to see and visit in the country.
1- Safari in Hlane National Park
A must-see inEswatini, Hlane National Park is the country's largest. Covering more than 22,000 hectares, the park is home to numerous protected animal and plant species. You'll see lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, zebras and other mammals. You can go on safari in the park in your own car or 4x4, or choose a walking safari with a guide. Be sure to visit the village of Umphakatsi, and hike theEhlatsini Bush Trails .
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2- Visit Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini
Home to almost 100,000 inhabitants, Mbabane is the country's capital and second most populous city behind Manzini. You won't find many tourist attractions here, but you'll be within easy reach of most of the country's must-sees. You'll appreciate its temperate climate, authenticity and colorful market stalls .
3- Visit the Ezulwini Valley
Just south of Mbabane, the Ezulwini Valley is a stopover for many tourists. With its grandiose landscapes, it lives up to its name, meaning "place of paradise" in Swati. As well as visiting the valley, you can visit the National Museum and the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park, a great starting point for learning more about the country's history and its kings. The valley also boasts numerous hotels, restaurants, craft markets and art galleries.
4- Sibebe Rock
Sibebe Rock lies some 10 km north of Mbabane. This natural site is the second largest monolithic plutonic granite boulder in the world, and also the largest in Africa. Standing 800 m high, it covers almost 16,500 hectares. It's possible toclimb it with a guide, and at the top you'll enjoy a beautiful view over the valley. In spring, the landscapes you pass through are brightened up by a carpet of flowers, and wild horses take possession of the area.
5- The Crafts Route
Located in the Ezulwini Valley between Mbabane and Manzini, the Crafts Route takes you on a tour of many Made in Eswatini craft stores. Along the way, you'll find vendors selling pottery, wood carvings, jewelry and baskets, all made locally.
6- What to visit in Eswatini? Malolotja Nature Reserve
The Malolotja Nature Reserve is a real gem for hikers and nature lovers. Numerous trekking trails criss-cross the park, allowing you to observe the local flora and fauna. You'll come across antelope, zebra, eland, wildebeest and almost 300 species of bird. For an unusual way to discover the area, take the Canopy tour takes you on a two-hour zip-line ride through the trees.
7- Pigg's Peak
In the heart of the Ezulwini valley lies Pigg's Peak, a village named after the man who discovered gold there in the 19th century. Today, the town is focused on the forestry industry, but it is also a starting point for many points of interest. With its waterfalls, rivers and surrounding forests, the region is a paradise for hikers and adventure sports enthusiasts.
8- Mlilwane Nature Reserve
The Mlilwane Nature Reserve is a sanctuary for the country's wildlife, created in 1906 by the Reilly family. Spread over almost 4650 hectares in the Ezulwini Valley, visitors come here to observe the herbivores by 4x4, on foot or even on horseback. You'll also find guided hikes such as the Chubeka Trail, which takes you to Luphohlo Peak.
9- Lake Maguga
Located in the north of the country, Lake Maguga is a magnificent man-made lake. Held back by an impressive electric dam called the Maguga Dam, the lake is best known for the hikes that surround it and is a favorite with birdwatchers. It offers a tranquil stopover in the heart of a magnificent rocky mountain landscape.
10- What to see in Eswatini? Nsangwini Rock
Near Pigg's Peak, Nsangwini Rock is a rock cavern housing incredible rock paintings dating back over 4,000 years. Painted by the San, ancestors of the Bushmen, these are the best-preserved rock paintings in the country. Their lines are fine and harmonious, and the paint is made of red ochre and animal blood. They depict mystical scenes, combining animals, humans and symbols. To get there, you'll need good shoes, as the slope is steep.
11- Mkhaya Nature Reserve
The Mkhaya Reserve is one of Eswatini's most beautiful reserves. Here you can observe black and white rhinoceros, two rare species that are on the brink of extinction due to poaching. An elite ranger unit is on hand to protect them. You'll also come across other bush animals such as elephants and giraffes.
Is it dangerous to go to Eswatini?
According to the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Eswatini is considered a relatively safe country for travelers, although the risk of assault is not excluded. Cases of carjacking have been reported on certain roads, so it's advisable to drive with windows closed and doors locked.
What are the best routes to visit Eswatini? d
Many tours are feasible in Eswatini, often combined with a visit to South Africa or Mozambique. Here is a selection:
Guided hikes and safaris between South Africa and Eswatini
This 17-day tour from Johannesburg will take you on safari and discovery of the Great Kruger National Park, before moving on to Eswatini. For more information, ask for a free quote on our partner's website.
Small group tour between South Africa, Mozambique and Eswatini
This 14-day tour takes you on a wildlife safari in the Kruger Park, before exploring both Eswatini and Mozambique. For more information, you can request a free quote on our partner's website.
