Travel to Eswatini: safari, mountains, and the traditions of the Swazi people

Eswatini is a small kingdom in the southern part of Africa, surrounded by the Republic of South Africa and Mozambique. This country, formerly known as Swaziland, maintains a rich cultural heritage and unique traditions that make it unique among tourist destinations. Despite its compact size, Eswatini surprises with a variety of landscapes: there are mountain ranges, savannas, fertile valleys, and picturesque rivers.

The capital of Eswatini is Mbabane, where administrative institutions and business centers are concentrated. For tourists, the city of Manzini is more interesting, which is the cultural and commercial center of the country. Here you can see local markets with handicrafts, traditional dances, and try national cuisine.

The climate of Eswatini is tropical, with a hot humid summer (from November to March) and a cooler dry winter (from May to September). The best time to travel is the dry season when it is comfortable to travel along mountain trails and observe wildlife.

Eswatini is known for its nature reserves and national parks. Tourists can go on a safari to see elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and other African animals. Additionally, the country attracts fans of active recreation: here popular activities include hiking, caving, rafting, and horse riding.

The culture and traditions of Eswatini are closely intertwined with modern life. National festivals, such as Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala (Royal Festival), showcase the rich heritage of the Swazi people. Tourists have a unique opportunity to get acquainted with this heritage by visiting villages and craft workshops where traditional decorations and textiles are made.

1. Eswatini is one of the last absolute monarchies in Africa, led by King Mswati III.

2. The country's name was officially changed from Swaziland to Eswatini in 2018, meaning 'land of the Swazi people'.

3. Eswatini is one of the smallest countries in Africa, with an area of about 17,364 km².

4. The national language is Swazi (siSwati), but English is also widely used.

5. The royal family actively supports the culture and traditions of the Swazi people.

6. There are no large cities in Eswatini, the capital Mbabane is small, and Manzini is the cultural center of the country.

7. The national currency is the emalangeni (subdivided into cents).

8. The country has a large number of craft workshops where traditional masks, baskets, and fabrics are made.

9. Eswatini is famous for its colorful national festivals, especially Umhlanga, where thousands of girls dance with reeds.

10. Despite its small size, the country has diverse landscapes: from mountain ranges to savannas and forests.

11. In Eswatini, you can see rare animals such as antelopes, rhinos, and elephants.

12. Eswatini is a country with a high level of traditional medicine, where herbal remedies and local healers are popular.

13. The country's national parks - Mlalhlanga, Hluhluwe, and Mafungwe - are ideal for eco-tourism and safaris.

14. Royal protocol plays an important role in Eswatini, including the selection of brides and ceremonies at the royal family.

15. Tourists often admire the friendly locals and the unique atmosphere where modernity harmoniously coexists with tradition.

16. Eswatini is one of the last absolute monarchies in Africa, led by King Mswati III.