United Kingdom
Swaziland Travel and Destination Guide
PLACES TO SEE
Mbabane
Mbabane lies at the northern end of the Ezulwini Valley amid the lush Dlangeni Hills, and apart from stocking up on information and supplies for trips farther afield, it doesn't offer much for the traveller. The main attractions in town are the Mall, the New Mall and Allister Miller St.
Lobamba
The heart of the Ezulwini Valley, Swaziland's royal valley, Lobamba is home to the royals' Embo State Palace. You can see the monarchy let loose during the Incwala ceremony and the Uhmlanga dance, which take place at the Royal Kraal in Lobamba.
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
This lovely sanctuary, near Lobamba, is a private reserve created by Ted Reilly on his family farm in the 1950s. It's dominated by the precipitous Nyonyane (Little Bird) peak, and there are several attractive walks around it. Zebras, giraffes, many antelope species, crocodiles, hippos and a variety of birds can be seen; in summer, you may spot a black eagle.
Malolotja Nature Reserve
This beautiful highveld/middleveld reserve is a true wilderness area, rugged and mostly unspoiled. It's also an excellent walking destination, with a 200km (124mi) network of hiking trails. Budding ornithologists can see over 280 species of birds, including several rare species. Wildflowers and rare plants are added attractions.
Hlane Royal National Park
Hlane Royal National Park is near the former royal hunting grounds. Hlane (the name means 'wilderness') is Swaziland's largest protected area, home to elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, white rhinos and many antelope species. The park offers wonderfully low-key wildlife-watching.
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