1. Hlane Royal National Park
Hlane Royal National Park is Swaziland’s largest protected area and is located about 67km northeast of Manzini along MR3 road. The park is made up of a lowland area with grassland and shallow pans. It is also traversed by the Umbuluzana River and is home to Transvaal lions, elephants, giraffes, wildebeests, zebras, white rhinos, and more. Several roads and trails crisscross the park, offering perfect views of the park’s ecosystem.
2. Lobamba
Welcome to Swaziland's spiritual, cultural and political heart. Within the Ezulwini Valley lies Lobamba, an area that has played host to Swaziland's monarchy for over two centuries. It's home to some of the most notable buildings in the country. Despite its importance, Lobamba feels surprisingly quiet – except during the spectacular Incwala and Umhlanga ceremonies, when the nation gathers on the surrounding plains for several days of intense revelry.
Lobamba Cultural Village
Located in the stunning Ezulwinin valley, commonly referred to as the “Valley of Heaven,” Lobamba Cultural Village is the heart of Swaziland’s spiritual and cultural richness. The laid-back village is also home to Swaziland’s kingdom and hosts some of the country’s most important structures, including the Royal Kraal, the Parliament Building, the National Museum, and other government buildings. Important public events are usually held here.
Swazi National Museum
Located in Lobamba, the Swazi National Museum is home to exciting exhibitions that seek to tell the story of the country’s rich history, culture, and nature. Some of the most common exhibits here include traditional dresses, remains of native wildlife, dioramas, ancient musical instruments, and more. Outside the complex is a recreation of a Swazi Kraal with thatched huts.
>>> Flights to Manzini
>>> Hotels in Lobamba
3. Mbabane
Mbabane's main draw? Its lovely setting in the craggy Dlangeni Hills. Swaziland’s capital and second-largest city, Mbabane is a relaxed and functional place perched in the cool highveld. Its climate is actually why the British moved their base here from the heat of Manzini in 1902.
Mbabane Market
Popular for its unique and historical souvenirs, Mbabane Market is located on the southern end of Allister Miller Street in Mbabane town. The shops here stock all kinds of souvenirs, including hand-made baskets, ancient masks, traditional fabrics, carvings, beaded jewelry, and more.
4. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Ezulwini Valley, the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary serves as the control center for Swazi’s game parks and reserves. Previously, the sanctuary used to be a farming and tin mining area. It includes an open grassland, stunning plains, and mid-level vegetation. The most common tourist activities in the sanctuary are mountain bike riding, horse riding, and nature trails.
5. Malolotja Nature Reserve
Covering 4,447 acres of mountain wilderness, the Malolotja Nature Reserve is located on Swaziland’s northwestern border with South Africa. The reserve is home to Ngwenya Mountain, Swaziland’s second-largest mountain, and Malolotja Falls, which drops up to 292 feet. Habitats in the reserve include short grasslands, riverine scrub, bushveld, and an Afromontane forest.
Malolotja Falls
The Malolotja Falls are Swaziland’s highest waterfall, dropping to about 292 feet. The waterfall is a collection of several streams and rivers from the high mountains through deep gorges and ridges. The falls then form a large gorge that disappears in to the dense Afromontane Forest downstream.
Source: Fredrick Ngugi, Face2Face Africa; Lonely Planet
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