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Top Eswatini Holiday Deals
Top Eswatini Holiday Deals
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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Eswatini: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Eswatini
- Eswatini, known as Swaziland, is a small landlocked country in Southern Africa.
- It is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife reserves, and rich cultural heritage.
- South Africa surrounds the country to the west and Mozambique to the east.
- The capital city is Mbabane, and the official languages are Swazi and English.
- Eswatini has a diverse population of around 1.3 million, mostly Christian.
- The country has a unique blend of traditional and modern culture, with many traditional festivals and ceremonies still celebrated today.
- Eswatini is also known for its handcrafted arts and crafts, such as woven baskets, pottery, and beadwork.
- The currency used in Eswatini is the Swazi lilangeni, and the country operates on Central Africa Time (CAT). Our Holiday Vibes are Good Vibes Only!
- Capital: Mbabane (administrative) and Lobamba (legislative)
- International airport: King Mswati III International Airport (SHO)
- Population: Approximately 1.1 million
- Currency: Swazi lilangeni (SZL)
- Time: UTC+2
- Driving side: Left
- Main Electricity: 230V 50Hz
- Official Language: Swazi and English
- Religion: Christianity, indigenous beliefs, and Islam
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Eswatini
- Hlane Royal National Park: This national park is home to various wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes.
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including zebras, impalas, and warthogs.
- Sibebe Rock: This granite mountain is the second-largest monolith in the world and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
- Ezulwini Valley: This scenic valley is home to many of Eswatini's top attractions, such as the Mantenga Cultural Village and the Swazi Candles Craft Centre.
- Mantenga Cultural Village: This living museum offers a glimpse into the traditional Swazi way of life, including dance performances, crafts, and a village tour.
- Ngwenya Glass Factory: This glassblowing factory produces a wide range of handcrafted glassware, from vases to animal figurines.
- Malolotja Nature Reserve: This reserve offers hiking trails, stunning scenery, and a chance to spot rare wildlife, such as the endangered Cape vulture.
- Swazi Trails Adventure Center: This centre offers a variety of adventure activities, such as white-water rafting, caving, and zip-lining.
- Mkhaya Game Reserve: This reserve is home to rare and endangered species such as black rhinos, roan antelopes, and tsessebe.
- Eswatini Cultural Village: This cultural village offers a chance to experience traditional Swazi culture, including dance performances, storytelling, and traditional cuisine.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Eswatini
- The best time to visit Eswatini is between May and September, during the dry season.
- The weather is cooler, with little to no rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and game drives.
- The wet season, from October to April, can be hot and humid, with heavy rains and possible flooding in some areas.
- However, this is also when the landscape is most vibrant and green, and some migratory bird species can be seen.
- Overall, the best time to visit Eswatini depends on your interests and preferred activities.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Eswatini
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is Eswatini's oldest protected area in the Ezulwini Valley.
- It covers 4,560 hectares and is home to wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest, impalas, and hippos.
- Visitors can go on guided hikes, bike tours, or horseback riding safaris to observe the animals in their natural habitat.
- The sanctuary also offers accommodation options ranging from camping and self-catering cottages to luxurious lodges.
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those interested in wildlife conservation efforts.
Hlane Royal National Park
- Hlane Royal National Park is a protected area in Eswatini, known for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- It is home to large populations of lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and other animals, making it a popular destination for wildlife safaris and game drives.
- The park offers accommodations, including luxury lodges and traditional Swazi beehive huts.
- In addition to wildlife viewing, visitors can enjoy guided bush walks and birdwatching.
- Hlane Royal National Park is located in eastern Eswatini and can be accessed via a paved road.
Ezulwini Valley
- Ezulwini Valley is a scenic valley in the central part of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland).
- Due to its natural beauty and cultural value, it is a popular tourist attraction.
- The valley has numerous attractions, such as wildlife reserves, cultural villages, and craft markets.
- It is also great for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
- The valley is dotted with luxury lodges, hotels, and restaurants, making it an ideal place for a relaxing holiday.
Malolotja Nature Reserve
- Malolotja Nature Reserve is a protected area in Eswatini known for its diverse flora and fauna, including many species of birds and mammals.
- The reserve offers hiking trails, mountain biking, horseback riding opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and swimming in the reserve's natural pools and waterfalls.
- The reserve is located in the northwestern part of the country and is easily accessible from the nearby cities of Mbabane and Manzini.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Eswatini Off the Beaten Track
Mlawula Nature Reserve
- Mlawula Nature Reserve is a protected area in Eswatini known for its diverse flora and fauna, including many antelope species, zebra, and birds.
- The reserve is located in the Lowveld region of Eswatini and allows visitors to explore the area's bushveld, rivers, and valleys.
- There are several hiking trails in reserve, guided game drives and birdwatching tours.
- Mlawula Nature Reserve also offers camping facilities for those who wish to stay overnight and experience the natural beauty of Eswatini up close.
Sibebe Rock
- Sibebe Rock is a granite mountain located near the town of Mbabane in Eswatini.
- It is one of the largest exposed granite plutons in the world, standing at the height of 1,488 meters (4,882 feet) above sea level.
- The mountain is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- It is also an important cultural site for the Swazi people, who consider it sacred.
- The rock is believed to have been formed more than three billion years ago and is an important geological site for researchers.
Swazi Cultural Village
- The Swazi Cultural Village is a living museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Swazi people.
- Located near the town of Lobamba, the village consists of a cluster of huts that have been constructed in the traditional Swazi style.
- Visitors can watch cultural performances, participate in traditional dances, and learn about the history and customs of the Swazi people.
- The village also has a craft market where visitors can purchase traditional Swazi handicrafts and souvenirs.
Bushfire Festival
- The Bushfire Festival is an annual music and arts festival in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland).
- It brings together local and international artists for a weekend of live music, performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
- The festival promotes social change, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability.
- It takes place in the scenic Malkerns Valley and attracts thousands of visitors yearly.
- The Bushfire Festival celebrates art, culture, and community and is a must-see for anyone visiting Eswatini during the festival season.
Emlembe Mountain
- Emlembe Mountain is the highest mountain in Eswatini, standing at 1,862 meters (6,109 feet) tall.
- It is located in the northwestern part of the country near the border with South Africa.
- The Swazi people consider the mountain a sacred site and an important part of the local culture and history.
- Hiking to the summit of Emlembe Mountain is a popular activity for visitors, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- However, access to the mountain is limited and requires permission from local authorities.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Eswatini Culture and Traditions
- Eswatini, also known as Swaziland, has a vibrant culture evident in its art, music, and traditional ceremonies.
- The country's population is mainly made up of the Swazi people with a unique and distinct culture.
- The Swazi people are known for their traditional dance, performed at various ceremonies and events.
- Drums and other musical instruments accompany the dance, and the dancers wear brightly coloured clothing and elaborate beadwork.
- The most important cultural event in Eswatini is the Reed Dance, which is held annually in August or September.
- During the Reed Dance, young unmarried women gather reeds to bring to the queen's mother as a sign of respect and loyalty.
- The event is also a celebration of virginity and is a symbol of the importance of family values in Swazi culture.
- Another important cultural event in Eswatini is the Incwala Ceremony, held annually in December or January.
- The ceremony marks the beginning of a new year and involves various rituals, including the sacrifice of a bull and drinking traditional beer.
- Eswatini is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, weaving, and beadwork.
- Visitors can see artisans at work at the Malkerns Valley Craft Market and other craft centres throughout the country.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Eswatini: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Food
#Food
- Eswatini, also known as Swaziland, is a small country located in Southern Africa.
- It is a destination rich in culture and natural beauty, allowing visitors to experience the country's unique traditions and landscapes.
- Some of the top attractions in Eswatini include the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Hlane Royal National Park, Ezulwini Valley, Malolotja Nature Reserve, Ngwenya Glass, Mlawula Nature Reserve, Sibebe Rock, Emlembe Mountain, and the Swazi Cultural Village.
- The country's cuisine blends traditional Swazi dishes and South African influences, with popular dishes including phutu pap, braai meat, and local beer.
- Eswatini's culture is heavily based on ancient rituals and traditions, such as the Reed Dance and Incwala festival, which allow tourists to experience the nation's rich history and cultural legacy.
Fun
#Fun
- There are plenty of fun things to do in Eswatini.
- Wildlife safaris and game drives are popular attractions at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane Royal National Park.
- For a cultural experience, visitors can visit the Swazi Cultural Village to learn about the traditional way of life in Eswatini.
- Adrenaline junkies can hike up Sibebe Rock, the world's largest granite rock, or go white water rafting on the Great Usutu River.
- Ngwenya Glass offers a unique experience of watching skilled artisans create beautiful glassware.
- The annual Bushfire Festival is a celebration of music, arts, and culture, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Fashion
#Fashion
- As a cultural and traditional country, Eswatini has a unique and vibrant fashion style.
- One of the most distinctive elements of Swazi fashion is the colourful and patterned fabrics, which are often handwoven or dyed using traditional techniques.
- The national dress of Eswatini, called the emahiya, is a colourful wrap skirt worn by women.
- Men traditionally wear a beaded headband, a lihiya, and a beaded sash, an incwala.
- In addition to traditional attire, modern fashion designers in Eswatini are incorporating traditional textiles and designs into contemporary clothing lines, creating a fusion of tradition and modernity.
- Find a variety of local handicrafts and fashion items, such as beaded jewellery, woven baskets, and hand-dyed fabrics, at local markets and craft shops throughout the country.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Eswatini: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- Eswatini, also known as Swaziland, is a small landlocked country in Southern Africa with diverse natural landscapes.
- The country has several nature reserves and national parks that are popular tourist destinations, including the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Hlane Royal National Park, Malolotja Nature Reserve, and Mlawula Nature Reserve.
- These parks offer hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching opportunities.
- Sibebe Rock, one of the largest exposed granite formations in the world, is another popular natural attraction in Eswatini.
- The country also has several scenic mountain ranges, including Emlembe Mountain, the highest point in Eswatini.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Eswatini Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- Eswatini is home to several vibrant festivals throughout the year.
- One of the most popular is the Umhlanga (Reed) Dance, which takes place in late August or early September and celebrates the country's young unmarried women.
- The Incwala Ceremony, also known as the First Fruits Festival, is another important cultural event in December or January and involves a series of rituals to honour the harvest season.
- The Bushfire Festival, held in May, is a music and arts festival that attracts performers from around the world.
- Other festivals include the Marula Festival, the Royal Enfield Swaziland Rally, and the Swazi International Trade Fair.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Eswatini Holiday
Places similar to Eswatini to visit
Places similar to Eswatini to visit
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