Formerly called Swaziland, the Kingdom of Eswatini is a landlocked nation sandwiched between Mozambique and South Africa. The majority of visitors to Eswatini utilize this little Kingdom as a shortcut to get from South Africa’s Kruger National Park to Hluhluwe (KwaZulu-Natal) or the other way around. That makes perfect sense because it’s the quickest path and you get to see a new nation and obtain a new passport stamp. It’s safe to say, though, that the Kingdom of Eswatini is surprisingly excellent and well worth spending more time than just passing through, as I discovered when I recently traveled there for six days.
The top destinations in the Kingdom of Eswatini, along with things to do and places to stay, will be discussed in this post. Get ready for breathtaking scenery, exciting wildlife encounters, exciting outdoor pursuits, and cultural events that will teach you more about Swazi culture and the Eswatini way of life. All of these locations can be visited in at least six days.
Kim Paffen, a member of the Traveltomtom team, writes this blog about travel in Eswatini. Please use my Instagram account, @ourplanetinmylens, to reach me with any inquiries you may have about visiting Eswatini.
KaMsholo Bushveld Safaris
The first destination, KaMsholo Bushveld Safaris in Ndzevane, is 40 kilometers away and takes 45 minutes to reach from the Lavumisa Border Post. Previously known as Nisela Safaris, the park was renamed and given new management when Eswatini’s Big Game Parks took over. Although there is obviously still need for improvement, this park has a lot of potential, and I was glad to have had the opportunity to explore this area of nature.
Only impala, nyala, kudu, reedbuck, wildebeest, zebra, giraffes, ostriches, common duiker, warthogs, and numerous birds, including raptors, inhabit the park; there are no predators.
The stunning Lebombo mountain backdrop and the numerous recognizable “umbrella” acacia trees were what most struck me. Imagine them combined with creatures like giraffes on a misty morning or an orange African sunset, and you’ll find yourself in an idyllic African setting. It’s a great way to begin your trip to Eswatini, with views you won’t find anywhere else in the Kingdom.
Royal Hlane National Park
Four of the Big Five—the rhino, lion, elephant, and leopard—can be seen in Hlane Royal National Park, which is 90 kilometers (60 minutes) from KaMsholo. A variety of bird species, such as marabou storks and vultures, are also present. Keep your eyes open since you can already see animals along the road before you enter the park gate. We only went for a wildlife drive, but Hlane National Park also has lodging options, such as Ndlovu Camp. I would have wanted to spend the night there as well if I had had more time. We saw numerous rhinos, a rock monitor, two male lions with a female, a herd of elephants, and a number of small game and birds, including the Martial Eagle. While enjoying lunch at Ndlovu Camp, you may watch hippos and rhinos at the waterhole.
Shewula Mountain Camp
Following a satisfying lunch at Hlane National Park, we traveled to Shewula Mountain Camp, which offers breathtaking views from the summit of the Lubombo Mountains on the outskirts of the Shewula Nature Reserve. It’s a 70-80 minute journey (44 km) from Hlane, with the final 10 km or so being on a gravel road. In eSwatini, the Shewula Mountain Camp experience is the first community ecotourism initiative where all proceeds benefit the local population. The Shewula community has 14,000 members in total.
One of the highlights of my vacation to Eswatini was Shewula. I adore that the community is in charge of it. Aside from that, the camp offers a 100-kilometer panoramic view of Swaziland and Mozambique, making it a wonderfully serene location with some of the nicest views I’ve seen in Eswatini. Get up early to see the dawn and arrive in time for a breathtaking sunset if you intend to visit Shewula Mountain Camp.
Malolotja Nature Reserve
The Malolotja Nature Reserve’s splendor will enthrall nature lovers. Stunning mountain scenery, tumbling waterfalls, and a wide variety of plants and animals can all be found in this large wilderness area. Hike, see birds, or embark on the exhilarating tree-top canopy tour, which consists of a series of exhilarating zip-wires that wind through a gorgeous canyon.
Swazi Candles
Visit the Swazi Candles studio to see the inventiveness of regional artisans. Admire the handcrafted candles’ elaborate patterns and vivid hues, which are fashioned into a variety of creatures and symbols. You’ll have an abundance of options for souvenirs of your trip to Eswatini, since the same complex houses more of the country’s most renowned craftspeople.
Ngwenya Glass Factory
The Ngwenya Glass Factory is a must-see for everyone interested in art and crafts. See how talented artisans create beautiful sculptures, bowls, and vases out of recycled glass. Take a tour to discover the amazing eco-credentials and the glass-making process, and purchase one-of-a-kind mementos to take home.
Mkhaya Game Reserve
Visit Mkhaya Game Reserve, a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, to round out your trip to Eswatini. There are great chances to see buffalo, elephants, black and white rhinos, and other antelope species in this private reserve. It is frequently mentioned as one of the top locations for rhino encounters worldwide. See the conservation efforts being made to save these amazing animals by going on an unforgettable safari.
Eswatini’s diverse animals, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural legacy are what make it so alluring. Eswatini provides a variety of activities to fit the interests of any traveler, whether they are looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or a tranquil getaway. With its animal safaris, cultural villages, and nature reserves, Eswatini offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is full of natural beauty, genuine Swazi friendliness, and genuineness.