From ancient rock art to thriving craft markets and epic hiking trails, discover what makes the small Southern African kingdom of Eswatini so iconic and famous.
What’s So Special About the Kingdom of Eswatini?
You’ve probably heard of its much bigger neighbor South Africa, but have you explored the tiny nation nestled right next door? Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) may be small, but it’s seriously punching above its weight when it comes to awesome attractions and cultural richness.
From ancient rock art to thriving handicraft markets, lush nature reserves to mouth-watering local cuisine, this little kingdom has so much to offer intrepid travelers. But what exactly makes Eswatini so famous? Let’s dive into the top claims to fame for one of Southern Africa’s most unique destinations.
Eswatini’s Famous National Parks and Natural Wonders
For such a tiny country, Eswatini sure knows how to go big when it comes to awesome national parks and natural scenery. Hikers and nature lovers, this one’s for you:
Hlane Royal National Park
As the largest protected area in the kingdom, Hlane has earned a reputation as one of Eswatini’s premier safari destinations. With the royal family’s historic hunting grounds, you can spot all sorts of African wildlife like lions, elephants, hippos and more roaming freely. The ancient Khoisan Rock Art site inside the park is a huge draw too.
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
This was actually the nation’s first ever conservation area, preserving an amazing diversity of landscapes from mountains and valleys to plains teeming with impala, warthogs, and over 300 species of birds. Don’t miss hiking the famous Lidwala Gorge Trail or staying overnight in one of the cozy traditional beehive huts.
Malolotja Nature Reserve
Up for a serious alpine adventure? Malolotja has you covered with its rugged mountain trails, plunging waterfalls, and high altitude scenery reminiscent of the Swiss Alps. Trekking to the 1,862m high Malolotja Valleys is considered the ultimate challenge for avid hikers in Eswatini.
Sibebe Rock
Jutting an incredible 650 feet straight up from the landscape, Sibebe Rock is the world’s largest exposed granite batholith (volcanic blob). Even better? There’s a mind-blowing ancient bushman rock art site right at its base depicting humans and animals from eons ago. Talk about an epic viewpoint and cultural experience!
Eswatini’s Capital City Mbabane and Cultural Highlights
While the great outdoors is a huge lure for visitors, Eswatini’s cities and cultural traditions are equally as captivating. Here are some can’t-miss spots to immerse yourself in local life:
Mbabane Markets
For a full immersion into the hustle and bustle of Swazi culture, you’ve gotta hit up the energetic city markets in Eswatini’s capital Mbabane. Wander through the maze of colorful stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and vibrantly patterned traditional clothing to fresh produce and tasty street snacks. It’s truly a feast for the senses!
National Museum (Ngwenya)
Get your history fix at the Ngwenya national museum, which has an amazing collection of artifacts, artwork, and interactive exhibits celebrating the evolution of Swazi culture through the ages. You’ll learn all about the nation’s deep-rooted traditions, royal heritage, and indigenous history. The recreated village with massive traditional beehive-shaped huts outside is a must-see.
Summer Place Hotel
This may be a hotel resort, but it’s truly a cultural experience unto itself. Located along the river in a lush botanical garden setting, Summerplace celebrates traditional Swazi decor, cuisine, music and hospitality at every turn. From live African drumming shows to interactive visits with local craftspeople, it’s an immersive journey into Eswatini’s rich heritage.
Swazi Candles Workshop
Eswatini is world-famous for its absolutely stunning hand-crafted candles made using the ancient burnished batik technique. At factories like Swazi Candles in Malkerns Valley, you can actually watch the local artisans skillfully at work creating these colorful artistic masterpieces. The intricate designs and vibrant colors are just mesmerizing!
Don’t Miss These Unique Eswatini Bucket List Experiences
In addition to the top attractions, Eswatini is full of authentic cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures. A few more must-dos to add to your itinerary:
– Explore Ngwenya Mine, considered one of the oldest mines in the world dating back an incredible 43,000 years where early humans once mined red ochre
– Go hiking along the iconic Sibebe Rock Trail for up-close views of the towering granite cliff faces and ancient bushman rock art
– Visit Mantenga Cultural Village for interactive demos of traditional grass weaving, beekeeping, brewing marula beer, and more
– Do an immersive walking tour through rural Swazi villages meeting locals and experiencing daily life firsthand
– Sample delicious traditional Swazi dishes like Sidvwu (pumpkin sides), Sihho (peanut butter tomato shish), and Umbhedo (sticky maize porridge)
With so many world-class hiking trails weaving through the “tiny kingdom’s” scenic nature reserves, Eswatini is a true paradise for avid trekkers, climbers, and outdoor adventurers. The varied landscape encompasses lowveld plains, lush valleys, ancient rock formations, and the mile-high peaks of the Mdimbo Mountains bordering South Africa and Mozambique.
While the hiking is incredible, it’s often the up-close cultural encounters that leave the biggest impression on visitors to Eswatini. Throughout the rural villages, traditional lifestyles remain largely intact. Families live in the iconic beehive-shaped huts and multi-generational homesteads, preserving customs like intricate handicrafts, traditional dance, and songs passed down over centuries.
So whether you’re looking for epic outdoor adventures or immersive cultural experiences (or both!), Eswatini truly has it all packed into its tiny but mighty borders. From ancient rock art to thriving craft markets, this unsung gem is quickly becoming one of Southern Africa’s hottest under-the-radar destinations.
Where to Stay for the Full Eswatini Experience
To round out your authentic Eswatini experience, consider staying at accommodations that reflect the country’s unique culture and hospitality:
Summerfield Luxury Resort & Botanical Gardens
This luxury eco-resort set along the Ezulwini River has an incredible botanical garden setting. But beyond the natural beauty, Summerfield immerses guests in Swazi heritage through its decor, cuisine, and cultural activities. From African dance shows to touring the on-site craft markets, it’s an immersive experience.
House on Fire (Mlilwane)
Get up close with nature at this ecologically-sensitive lodge located inside Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. The unique beehive huts have thatched roofs and are built using sustainable methods, letting you connect with traditional Swazi architecture and construction. See zebra, antelope and other wildlife roaming through camp!
Foresters Arms & Camping
For a more budget-friendly but equally authentic stay, Foresters Arms in Malkerns Valley offers rustic rondavel hut accommodations surrounded by lush gardens. Start your day with a traditional Swazi breakfast by the fire pit, or pitch a tent and go camping for easy access to hiking trails.
Eswatini may be tiny, but its rich cultural heritage and incredible natural scenery combine to offer plenty of unforgettable experiences. Whether you prefer finding remote hiking trails to summit or immersing yourself in the rhythm of local villages, this underrated Southern African destination has something for every type of adventurer.
Conclusion: When Are You Visiting Southern Africa’s Hidden Gem?
So there you have it – Eswatini may be a tiny nation, but it’s a total powerhouse when it comes to cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and unique off-the-beaten-path attractions. From exploring ancient iron age mines to sampling traditional dishes like sid wu and suho, climbing the soaring granite Sibebe Rock massif to watching local artisans hand-craft iconic batik candles, this compact kingdom truly packs an oversized punch.
While big-hitters like South Africa’s Kruger National Park and the beaches of Mozambique tend to steal the spotlight, Eswatini remains an underrated gem still largely untrampled by mass tourism. For now, you can explore Mlilwane’s remote hiking trails, wander the vibrant craft markets of Mbabane, and immerse yourself in cultural villages largely without contending with crowds.
But word is starting to get out about this tiny treasure trove of natural wonders and authentic cultural experiences. With affordable lodges like House on Fire and Foresters Arms offering sustainable eco-accommodations, plus the new Summerplace luxury resort celebrating Swazi hospitality, it’s becoming easier than ever to base yourself right in the heart of the action.
So why not add the “tiny kingdom” to your Southern African bucket list? Whether you crave heart-pumping climbing adventures, unforgettable wildlife encounters, or simply connecting with the warm people and customs of Eswatini, this up-and-coming hotspot is ready to make a big impression.
Drop a comment if you’ve already had the chance to explore Eswatini! What were your most memorable experiences? For travel tips on other underrated destinations, be sure to subscribe to the Travel Mavins newsletter. Who’s ready to put this oft-overlooked nation on their radar?