SWAZILAND

Swaziland is the smallest country in the southern hemisphere, but it has a big heart despite its depressed economy. The capital, Mbabane, lies at the northern end of the lush Ezulwini Valley: a small, unpretentious town that caters well for tourists. Among the country's main attractions are Mlilwane, a well-established game sanctuary; the magnificent Mantenga Falls; the casino resort of Piggs Peak; and the annual ceremony of the reed dances at the Royal Kraal in Lebombo on the country's eastern border.

The tiny mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, sandwiched between South Africa and Mozambique, has been dubbed the 'Switzerland of Africa'. African culture and traditions flourish here alongside some modern luxury hotels and excellent wildlife reserves.

Swaziland is also known for its exquisite arts and crafts and its breathtaking scenery, especially in the western highlands, which rise to more than 6,000 feet (1,829m), riven with abundant rivers, waterfalls and forested gorges.

Climate

Conditions in Swaziland vary according to altitude, with the higher areas being generally cloudy, misty and several degrees cooler than the rest of the country. The mountainous region in the west, where most tourists spend their time, is humid and wet, the rain falling in occasional violent storms. In the middle and lowland regions conditions are drier, the climate ranging from sub-tropical to tropical as one moves east. The rainy season is generally between October and May and is warm and wet, while cooler and drier conditions prevail from June to September.

VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS:
All visitors require a passport, tickets or documents for return or onward travel, and sufficient funds to cover their stay.

Americans: US citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
UK nationals: A visa is required by British citizens, but can be obtained free of charge on arrival.
Canadians: Canadian citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Australians: Australians do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
South Africans: South African nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a visa, but can be obtained free of charge on arrival.
New Zealanders: Nationals of New Zealand do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.

TRAVEL ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO IN SWAZILAND:

Things to do in Swaziland Africa including Swaziland bird watching, Swaziland paragliding, adventure caving, Swaziland fishing, Swaziland golf courses, Swaziland horse riding, Swaziland mountain quad biking, Swaziland river rafting, Swaziland arts and crafts, Swaziland craft and art galleries, Swaziland bushman paintings, walking and hiking in Swaziland, live entertainment in Swaziland

Swaziland is home to glass, batik and candle factories that are a must visit for many travelers to stock up on local art. Ngwenya Glass in Motshane creates works on site with 100% recycled glass. They also have hand-painted ceramics, wood crafts and a little coffee shop to site at and overlook the show room. Swazi candles in the Malkerns valley is a candle factory with handcrafted candles shaped from rhinos to geometric designs. Be sure to ask for the 'reject' table for discounted candles with minor flaws. Many of the backpackers are in areas that you can get to local attractions on your own two feet. Visit the National Stadium, the Swazi Cultural Village and National Museum near the Mantenga Craft Center area.

Things to Do:
Swaziland is the best place for chilling out or finding adventure. For some fun market action, visit Manzini, Ezulwini, Mantenga and Guava Gallery for sculptures, fabrics, art and ceramics. House on Fire is a community craft by day and entertainment center at night. It has a bohemian eclectic vibe and famous music performers every other Saturday night. Many of the backpackers have activities that go on at night like drum circle sessions, swirling poi, music by the bar and secret seats to look up at the clear stars. It is quiet when you are staying away from Manzini nightlife, but during the day, experience the endless activities in markets, city streets, shopping centres, farm/valley trails and wildlife sanctuaries.

Excursions
Situated with endless valleys, hidden hot springs, hiking trails and herds of game, Swaziland offers a variety of things to keep your feet moving. There are a number of Natural Reserves and game parks that are home to lion, elephant, white rhino, giraffe, hippo, kudu and antelope. Big Game Parks offers walking safaris, mountain bike trails and Landrover tours in three of the major game reserves - Mlilwane, Mkhaya, and Hlane. Swazi Trails is an adventure group that takes travellers white water rafting down the Zambezi, caving in the Gobholo caves and on mountain biking, hiking, and cultural routes through the Sibebe Rocks. Nisela Safaris, situated near the Lembombo Mountains do day-night game drives and guided bush walks during which you will encounter abundant wildlife! They offer accommodation in a safari lodge, beehive village or grassy campsite. Myxo's Backpackers offers cultural tours to Kaphunga Village where you gain insight to Swazi life, tradition and cultural by participating in daily family life. Many of the backpackers are in areas that have wonderful trails around where you will meet locals on their farms and experience spectacular Swazi scenery. Ask staff where rock pools, waterfalls and spectacular hikes are to spend a picnic or day of journaling by. Be sure to visit "Cuddle Puddle" hot springs for a night nature excursion with friends.