The traveler’s guide to Swaziland

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photo by Jasper van der Meij

Swaziland is only a tiny speck on the map of Africa, but this tiny country definitely knows how to pack a punch. Although an absolute monarchy (one of the oldest monarchies in Africa, in fact) and despite problems with poverty, Swaziland is famous for its friendly people, great tourist facilities and some very interesting attractions.

Rich wildlife, beautiful scenery and fascinating culture is what you can find in this amazing country. Swaziland might not have huge national parks and large cities, but even in its miniature size it has more than enough attractions to entertain any tourist. Here’s a traveler’s guide to Swaziland.

Before entering the country

Unlike in the case of some other African countries, Swaziland doesn’t ask for much before you cross the border – citizens of many countries don’t require a visa for staying less than 30 days. If you do require a visa, however (if you’re from Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal and holders of British passports), you can get a visa upon your arrival.

Transport

photo by sjorford

Swaziland has only one international airport, Matsapha Airport, near the city of Manzini. You can fly to Swaziland from Africa and a couple of other countries, but your best bet would be to take a bus from Johannesburg in South Africa to Manzini or Mbabane. two of the largest cities in Swaziland.

Once you get to Swaziland, the most common means of transport is either by car (if you came with your car, since car rentals are not very common), or by minibus, by far the most convenient way.

Minibuses, called kombis, are small vans that can be rather crowded, and they travel in a very general direction, which means that you can agree with the driver to leave you directly at your destination. When in lager cities, you can also get around by taxi, and this is virtually the only way to get around at night.

Food

photo by Jasper van der Meij

There are lots of places where you can get ‘western’ food in Swaziland, and you can get by if you only shop in grocery stores, but there are quite a few traditional Swazi dishes that every traveler should try at least once.

Mealie, a type of porridge, is really popular as a light dish, and it often accompanies main courses (chicken dust, for example, which is delicious grilled chicken with salad and mealie). Touristy restaurants also have more exotic fare too, like antelope meat, and local delicacies can also be found at markets.

Attractions

One of the best things you can do in Swaziland is hiking – this is one of the most beautiful and geographically diverse countries in Africa, and its most beautiful sights can be best appreciated from the top of a hill. There are lots of hiking trails you can choose from, some that take you on green hills, others through the savannah or mountains. If you’re into extreme sports, you should try white water rafting, especially on the Great Usutu River. For wildlife watching, don’t miss the Mkhaya Game Reserve, Hlane Royal National Park, Malolotia Nature Reserve and the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see the big five: lions, African elephants, cape buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros.

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