Destinations / Swaziland >>

Situated to the east of South Africa, on the border with Mozambique, Swaziland wins our coveted prize for the least discovered gem in Southern Africa.

Apart from beaches, there’s everything here and at great value. Swazi’s are proud of their unique heritage and monarchy and don’t carry the baggage of apartheid that some South Africans understandably do. In our experience, they are a very confident, open and optimistic bunch. Even the cities in Swaziland are safe to walk around at night, as long as you use common sense.

We’re still not sure how such a small kingdom can fit in such varied and beautiful terrain, from some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Africa in the north-west to the bushveld under the Lembombo Mountains of Mozambique in the north-east, from the remote, virtually uninhabited green valleys of the south-westt to the flat, steamy sugar cane fields of the south-east. For the most scenic and simple border crossing imaginable, try the Bulembu route from Baberton.

Tourists that visit Swaziland tend to do so on their way through to the KwaZulu-Natal north coast or Mozambique and stop over at Ezulwini Valley. The valley is renowned for its woodwork, weaving and candle-making and can get very busy at the time of the King’s annual Reed Dance. We believe Swaziland should be a lot more than a commuter trail – its unique culture, stunning scenery, hospitable people and wilderness areas should make this a destination in its own right.

We’ve stayed in caves in empty valleys, partied hard at House on Fire, and camped in a game reserve with no-one for company other than a rather curious giraffe.

Swaziland has simply never disappointed.