A Nature Lover's Guide to eSwatini
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small African country bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. With about one million people and one of the few remaining absolute monarchies, eSwatini is truly a hidden gem. The country’s captivating landscape spans bold mountain ranges in the west and extends to hot arid plains in the east. At its core, Eswatini is defined by the warmth and kindness of its people. Swazi culture is rooted in community. Its history thrives through traditions like Umhlanga (the reed dance ceremony) and Incwala (the first fruits festival). I hope this guide offers a glimpse of a place that welcomes you with open arms from the very first introduction
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p.s.
I have a confession. Despite spending nearly six years in Eswatini, I spent the majority of my time confined to the top of a secluded hill in Sidwashini, where my boarding school was located. So, in a way, I'm bending the rules here. I wanted to curate a truly local adventure but also didn't want to write about something I hadn’t experienced myself. Worried that my school excursions and routine visits to the same three shops in town wouldn't make for an exciting guide, I struggled to put this together. But with some help from my local friends and staying true to the Tambula spirit, I present a nature lover's guide to Mbabane*
*and its surrounding areas
What to Do
Sibebe Rock
The views from the top of Sibebe Rock are breathtaking. This beast of a climb is the second-largest granite rock in the world and it sits just outside the capital. In 2020, I successfully made it to the top but not without a few falls and tears along the way. For experienced hikers and adrenaline junkies, it may not be so tricky. The winding roads and steep inclines open up to unexpected oases in deep and hidden corners. At first glance, it may not seem like much but the climb will have you on all fours, walking through caves, and stopping several times to take in the breathtaking panoramas. It is exciting, rewarding, and the perfect start to your adventure.
Malolotja National Park
Nestled just 30 minutes away from Mbabane, Malolotja Game Reserve is home to rich dense forests and captivating cliffs that belong to the Drakensberg escarpment. The rocks are over three billion years old and the Malolotja Falls plunge from 95 meters high. It is the idyllic escape for solo hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and landscape photographers alike. In the spring, the flora comes to life in vibrant colors and throughout the year the zebras and blesboks graze the grasslands. With long and winding trails you can take a serendipitous walk or a heart-pumping trek.
The Malolotja Canopy Tour offers a zipline over the forest if you are looking for some extra thrill. On your way out you can pick up a soapstone memento from the craft stalls at the entrance.
Hawane Resort
In the shadow of Malolotja lies Hawane Resort. The resort offers accommodation in modern chalets, but more importantly, they have horses. I remember going to Hawane for team-building exercises with my classmates and though my memories of sleeping in former horse stables aren't fond, trotting along on my horse overlooking a quiet valley made me feel like Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. Just for that reason, I had to include it. For 220 emalangeni (~14 USD) you get an hour-long ride on one of their beautiful horses. Why not take in the stunning views from a different perspective?
Mantenga Cultural Village
Mantenga Cultural Village is an opportunity to gain more insight into the history and culture of Eswatini. A local guide puts everything into perspective by showing you how traditional Swazi homesteads looked and functioned. You get to walk through the compound and see each hut and its design and purpose. At around 11:00 am, they have a troop that is an exciting traditional dance that you may be dragged into trying but it's truly an enriching and worthwhile experience. Here you can appreciate the beauty of the Swazi people and their culture.
Where to Stay
Emafini Country Lodge
the comfort and convenience choice
Emafini Country Lodge offers a cozy and pampered retreat, an ideal haven for the busybody. It's five kilometers from Mbabane along the Manzini–Mbabane Highway. With everything taken care of it's the perfect place for those wanting the ease of movement between Mbabane and Manzini.
Photo Credit to Emafini Lodge
Mountain View Hotel
the perfect family stay
Mountain View International Hote is the ideal family stay. I remember spending midterm breaks here with my Ugandan friends and their parents. It is surrounded by mist-shrouded blue mountains and lush valleys surrounding the Ezulwini Valley. The hotel’s swimming pool and family rooms are ideal for kids and big groups. The rooms are classy and modern with a touch of African decor.
Photo Credit to Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels
Silverstone Falls
a luxurious getaway
Situated a little further out from the city in Pine Valley, Silverstone Lodge overlooks the valley along the Mbuluzi River and offers a tranquil retreat. Here you can immerse yourself in total relaxation, with nature all around. Imagine falling asleep to the gentle sound of water rushing over the rocks - so therapeutic!
Photo Credit to Silverstone Falls
Veki's Village
home away from home
Nestled in forested hills, Veki’s Village is a serene paradise. The quaint spot, integrated into the hilly landscape, provides a homey getaway where problems seem to float away. The sweet owner, who lived on the property when we were there, made us feel at home. It has boulders bulging from the walls beneath the sink which was a first for me. In their apartment-style lodges, you can wake you with the birds and take the day at your own pace.
Photo Credit to Veki's Village
What's more...
Ngwenya Glass
Ngwenya Glass is a famous glass-blowing factory they use recycled glass from the country and their work has gone global (I found some of their iconic glass elephants at a store in Copenhagen) it's such a treat to walk around the factory and see these craftsmen make delicate art pieces, you get to see everything as they make it and if you can buy something to take home with you. Around the factory is a complex of other local craft stores, baskets, and handmade jewelry, local fabrics. There is also a chocolate store that has the best dark chocolate-covered almonds. the smell alone is irresistible. Make sure you stop their its right along the road from the Ngwenya border post so if you came by road from South Africa it's an easy stop on your way in or out.
MTN Bushfire
House on Fire is an entertainment venue that hosts the biggest music festival in the country, MTN Bushfire. A 3-day multicultural special brings the best African talents to perform. They hold panels and workshops focused on social and environmental development based on the year's theme.
The energy and buzz of Bushfire is electric. Everyone has a good time. If music and art are your scene, I would recommend planning your visit for the end of May. The venue also hosts other festivals like the Luju Food and Arts Festival in August and holds exhibitions and events year-round. You can also pop in and walk through the Malandela Gardens.
