Formerly known as Swaziland, tiny Eswatini is a landlocked treasure in southern Africa, located between South Africa and Mozambique. The country is often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors, but a visit here showcases a different side of the region than most travelers get to see. Things to do in Eswatini include summiting Sibebe Rock, Africa’s largest monolith, and spotting a variety of antelope species—including roan antelope, orbi, and red hartebeest—at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
Eswatini enjoys lush, green summers and dry, sunny winters. Its population skyrockets at the end of May when thousands of international visitors pour in for MTN Bushfire, one of the largest music festivals on the continent. It’s an unmissable weekend-long event that showcases the rich diversity of Africa’s music and art scene. The 8-day Umhlanga (Reed Dance ceremony) is another event to plan around; it typically falls at the end of August or the beginning of September.
Taxis and kombis (shared minibuses) are cheap and plentiful, especially in the capital of Mbabane. However, getting around in the evenings and outside the city can be tricky, so having your own car is a good option. If you’d rather not drive, kombi drivers are typically happy to be hired for a day, or you can ask your accommodation if they have any recommendations for drivers.
Find unique souvenirs at Ngwenya Glass Shop; this small production creates funky glassware and art pieces—including tumblers, wine stoppers, napkin rings, and animal figurines—using recycled local glass. Before browsing, take a tour of the attached factory to see how the glass works are made. The shop and factory are surrounded by shady, picturesque gardens, and the small compound includes a café and several other artisan stores.
