Eswatini

Welcome to Eswatini

Capital of Eswatini: Mbabane
Population of Eswatini: 1.1 million - 49th in Africa
Size of Eswatini: 17,364 km2 - 48th in Africa
Languages in Eswatini: English, siSwati

Landlocked Eswatini remains one of the few absolute monarchies in the world - it's also one of the smallest countries in Africa. Known for its peacefulness and welcoming atmosphere, the country doesn't rush past you (even in the most built-up areas) like some of its neighbors. This laidback atmosphere suits the country, where age-old traditions are practiced in an everyday, rather than a made-for-tourists way. Aside from these singular characteristics, the country matches its better-known neighbors in terms of protected savannah landscapes rich in wildlife, the focal point for tourism in Eswatini.

Highlights

Spot Rhino. Eswatini has a surprising wealth of wildlife. You can track rare black rhinos, or the more common white, on foot or by 4WD in Mkhaya Game Reserve. Lion, leopard and cheetah can all be found in Hlane Royal National Park
Raft White Waters. Inflatable two-person ‘croc’ rafts are ideal to surf the rapids of Eswatini’s rivers: the most popular is the Usuthu River
Ride Horseback with Wildlife. Thoroughbred horses and humble bicycles quietly find a path between antelope, giraffe and zebra in lovely Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Take a Hike. There are some superb hikes in Eswatini’s north-western highlands, especially in the beautiful Malolotja Nature Reserve
Shop till you Drop. Swaziland has strong traditions of handicrafts and folk culture: add coachloads of South Africans stopping off and it’s easy to see how the country has become a shopper’s delight. Traditional handicrafts, candles and glassware make good souvenirs