Sibebe Rock
Region: Near Mbabane
Nature
Giant granite dome with 350m elevation difference. Popular for hiking and scenic views.
Tourism in Eswatini
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Ezulwini Valley
Region: Between Mbabane and Lobamba
Nature
Lush green resort area called "Valley of Heaven."
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Region: Central region
Nature
Country's oldest wildlife sanctuary where zebras and hippos can be seen.
Hlane Royal National Park
Region: Eastern Lubombo region
Nature
Wildlife including Big Five such as lions and rhinos with sunset safaris.
Mantenga Nature Reserve & Cultural Village
Region: Ezulwini Valley
Cultural heritage
Traditional houses with dance shows and waterfall trails.
Ngwenya Glass Workshop
Region: Hhohho region
Modern crafts
Glassblowing workshop and gallery creating recycled glass.
Swazi Candles Market
Region: Manzini region
Modern crafts
Tourist village with colored candles and craft shops.
Lobamba Royal Palace (Ludzidzini)
Region: Lobamba
Cultural heritage
One of the king's official residences. National museum in the vicinity.
Siphofaneni Highland Trail
Region: Lubombo Mountains
Nature
Highland hiking course known for views and birdwatching.
Ngwenya Mine Ruins and Museum
Region: Hhohho region
Cultural heritage
One of the world's oldest iron ore mining sites and mining museum.
Suggested itineraries
Kingdom Highlights 3 Days
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Mlilwane Reserve, Ezulwini Valley, Reed Dance venue visit
Compact tour from Mbabane covering main nature reserves and cultural experiences.
Nature and Crafts Full Experience 5 Days
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Hlane National Park, Ngwenya Glass, Swazi Candles
Circuit route combining eastern safari and western craft villages.
Trekking and Hot Springs Weekend
Duration (days): 2
Highlights: Sibebe Rock, Ezulwini hot springs, Local markets
For active travelers. Relax in natural hot springs after mountain walking.
Travel tips
- Border with South Africa has 24-hour gates but early morning passage avoids congestion
- Currency Lilangeni and South African Rand are equivalent and interchangeable, but receive Rand change in Rand for certainty
- Public transport is mainly minibuses without timetables, departing when full
- Rental cars follow left-hand traffic; main roads are paved but watch for livestock crossings
- Malaria risk exists in low-lying eastern areas requiring mosquito prevention measures
- Drone photography requires permits. Aircraft registration may be requested at airport customs
- Rainy season (November-March) can have heavy rain flooding roads
- Avoid flash when photographing ceremonies; get permission from leaders or elders
- Many rural shops don't accept cards; carrying cash is convenient
- Mobile communications mainly use South African providers; prepaid SIMs are inexpensive
- Tipping culture is not strong but 10% at restaurants is appreciated
- Avoid walking at night; use taxis or hotel shuttles
- Cattle are royal property; traffic accidents can result in high compensation
- Price negotiation is common at craft markets
- Confirm that items with king's photo are not subject to export restrictions when leaving