Discover the Best of Eswatini: Top Things to Do in Swaziland
Welcome to the hidden gem of Southern Africa, Swaziland – or as it’s now officially known, Eswatini. This culturally rich and beautiful landlocked country is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic African experience. From stunning nature reserves to vibrant cultural festivals, Swaziland offers a plethora of things to do and see for all types of travelers. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through some of the top things to do in Swaziland and help you plan the perfect trip to this enchanting country. Let’s get started!
1. Experience Culture at Swazi Cultural Village
When it comes to experiencing the traditional Swazi lifestyle, a visit to the Swazi Cultural Village is a must. This educational tour is explained by excellent English-speaking guides who will take you through the stories and customs of the Swazi culture. You can witness staged live traditional dancing, explore the craft and art shops, and even have a picnic beside the majestic Mantenga Falls, Swaziland’s largest waterfall. The village is beautifully maintained, and the guides will answer all your questions about Swazi culture, from staple food and attire to language and daily life. So, for a taste of the Swazi lifestyle, head over to the Swazi Cultural Village. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
2. Rhino Trekking: A Thrilling Adventure
After experiencing the cultural side of Swaziland and exploring its pristine nature, it’s time to go on a thrilling adventure with Rhino Trekking. The Kingdom is one of the few places in Africa where you can see white rhinos on foot, and going on a trek with a skilled ranger adds to the excitement. This activity provides an opportunity to get closer to these magnificent creatures and learn more about their conservation efforts. The encounter with the mighty beast is awe-inspiring, and knowing that you are contributing to their protection by supporting the local community is an added bonus. Rhino Trekking is definitely a must-do on any Swaziland adventure itinerary.
3. Safari in Hlane: A Wildlife Expedition
Visiting Swaziland offers a unique opportunity for a safari adventure at Hlane Royal National Park, one of the few parks in Southern Africa which still feels intimate due to relatively fewer tourists. Hlane, which means wilderness in the Swazi language, offers sightings of the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos – making it a must-visit location for nature lovers. A walking safari through the park is a great way to spot some of the wild animals, including rhinos and giraffes, up close. Combining the safari with a visit to Swazi Cultural Village and wildlife sanctuaries such as Mlilwane and Mbuluzi Game Reserve, visitors can embrace the cultural richness, diverse wildlife, and beautiful nature of Swaziland in one memorable trip.
4. Malolotja Canopy Tour: An Exciting Way to Explore Nature
Malolotja Canopy Tour is a must-try adventure activity in Swaziland. For those looking for an exciting way to explore nature, the canopy tour is a thrilling experience that allows visitors to glide through the beautiful forest canopy of the Malolotja Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to unique flora and fauna, making it a beautiful location to explore. This experience should be paired with other outdoor activities like hiking, quad biking, and even white water rafting to make the most of the adventurous atmosphere of Swaziland. For those looking to appreciate the cultural side of the country, the Swazi Cultural Village and House On Fire venues are a must-visit. Visitors can also go on game drives at Hlane, Mbuluzi, and Mkhaya Game Reserves to see some of the country’s beautiful wildlife up close. All in all, a visit to Swaziland promises adventure, culture, and a memorable experience for all types of travelers.
5. Quad Biking: A Fun-Filled Adventure Experience
Quad biking is an adventure activity that should not be missed in Swaziland. It’s fun-filled and thrilling, making it perfect for adventurous travelers. Swazi Trails Adventure Day Tours offers a range of activities, including quad biking, where tourists can explore the rugged terrain on four wheels. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Malolotja Nature Reserve has a thrilling tree-top canopy tour of zip-wires, bridges, and platforms. The quad biking experience blends perfectly with the other adventure activities, such as white water rafting, zip-lining, hiking, and biking for the active traveler’s delight. Besides adventure activities, Swaziland offers the beautiful scenery, cultural experiences, and wildlife safari expeditions that attract tourists from all over the world. So, if you’re planning a trip to Swaziland(Eswatini), make sure you include quad biking on your itinerary to experience the fun-filled adventure.
6. Hiking in Swaziland: A Scenic Trail Adventure
For the adventurous soul, Swaziland offers incredible opportunities for hiking in scenic trails. Malolotja National Park boasts hiking trails for both beginners and experienced mountaineers, with multiple-day guided camping trips also available. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for antelope walks, including the smallest in southern Africa. For a full exploration of the scenic western highveld, head north from Mbabane to Malolotja Nature Reserve and stay in cabins or campsites. The area has 50km of trails to choose from, ranging from short walks to two-day trails that require overnight stay. The best option for those who want to stretch their legs on the trail is a hiking adventure that spans 5-7 days, giving visitors a chance to explore the best of Eswatini’s hiking trails. With such fantastic options, Swaziland is an ideal destination for any hiker looking for a scenic trail adventure.
7. Mbuluzi Game Reserve: A Wildlife Haven
Mbuluzi Game Reserve is a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is a privately owned game reserve operating as a share block development and is a perfect overnight stop for holiday travelers. The reserve may be explored by driving most roads in a standard family car, visiting viewpoints, picnic spots, and a bird hide, or walking. In addition to wildlife sightings, visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the reserve’s landscape. Mbuluzi is a relatively small but stunning game park and nature reserve and is one of the top hotspots in Swaziland. It is an ideal place to unwind, relax and escape into the wilderness. So, if you’re planning a trip to Swaziland, make sure to put Mbuluzi Game Reserve on your itinerary.
8. Mkhaya Game Reserve: A Conservation Effort
Continuing on the theme of wildlife conservation in Swaziland, Mkhaya Game Reserve stands out as a prime example of successful conservation efforts. This private reserve, situated between Manzini and Big Bend, is home to the country’s only population of buffalo, as well as white and black rhinos. Visitors can enjoy guided safari tours in open Land Rovers or on foot, providing a unique and intimate opportunity to observe Africa’s iconic animals. As well as protecting wildlife from poaching activities, Mkhaya Game Reserve also works to maintain a healthy ecosystem and supports the local community through job creation and outreach programs. By visiting and supporting Mkhaya Game Reserve, travelers can contribute to the continued success of this conservation effort.
9. House On Fire: A Venue for Music and Arts Lovers
For music and arts lovers, House on Fire is a must-visit destination in Swaziland. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Ezulwini Valley, House on Fire is a unique performing arts venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From the Bushfire Music Festival every May to smaller concerts, workshops, and performances, this venue is a hub of creativity and entertainment. The Globe-style theater and stunning outdoor stage are complemented by beautiful artworks and sculptures that adorn the grounds. Even if there isn’t a specific event happening during your visit, House on Fire is still worth exploring for its eclectic ambiance and beautiful setting. So, pack a blanket and some snacks, grab some friends, and settle in for a memorable evening of music and art under the stars.
10. Active Traveler’s Delight: White Water Rafting, Zip Lining, Mountain/Quad Biking.
For adventure seekers, Swaziland (Eswatini) offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities to enjoy. White water rafting on the Great Usuthu River, zip lining through the forest canopy on the Malolotja Canopy Tour, and mountain or quad biking across the stunning landscape are just a few options. These activities not only get your heart racing but also provide a unique way to explore the natural surroundings of Swaziland. With so many active options available, travelers are sure to find the perfect adventure for their taste and skill level.
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