Swaziland is surrounded by South Africa to the north and west, and by Mozambique to the east. Although Swaziland has long
been regarded as one of the most beautiful countries in Africa, it was not until an Italian and South African syndicate built southern Africa’s first casino hotel on
a prime valley site in the early 1990s that Swaziland geared itself towards tourism. The lush Ezulwini Valley is a miracle of nature and the seat of Swaziland’s major tourist attractions, including the country’s famous casino, the magnificent Royal Swazi
golf course and the hot mineral spring known affectionately by locals and guests as the ‘Cuddle Puddle’.
Swaziland has a number of protected nature reserves and game parks which are open for visitors and strong efforts have recently been made to bring wildlife back to the country. There are currently four Swaziland National Trust Commission (SNTC) nature reserves, namely Malolotja,
Hawane, Mantenga and Mlawula, all of which are inhabited by a rich wildlife (including rare species such as the aardwolf or
African finfoot) and a wide range of bird species. These reserves are characterised by some of the most beautiful landscapes in southern Africa. The SNTC has taken a number of once privately run game parks under its wing such as Mlilwane, the country’s
oldest established game sanctuary.
Other game sanctuaries that have recently been proclaimed protected areas are Malolotsha, in the north near Piggs Peak; Hlane, in the shadow of
the escarpment in the northeast; and Mkhaya. Hlane has wide open spaces supporting big herds of game where the visitor can
see the old traditional scenes of Africa. Both Hlane and Malolotsha, which is situated on top of a mountain range and surrounded by steep canyons and waterfalls, are easily reached by road and different types of accommodation and tours are available.
The industrial centre of Manzini lies east across the valley, a good half-hour’s drive. On the way, visitors pass signposts to Swaziland’s most famous waterfall,
the Mantenga Falls. Food stalls in the local markets sell traditional Swazi meat stew and maize meal or stamped mealies and roasted corn on the cob (in season). Throughout the
year, a number of traditional festivals, dances and rituals are celebrated.
Constitutional monarchy since 1973. Gained independence from the UK in 1968.
Language
English and Swati.
Religion
60% Christian, with most of the remainder adhering to traditional beliefs.
Time
Social Conventions
Traditional ways of life are still strong and Swazi culture in the form of religious music, dance, poetry and craftsmanship
plays an important part in daily life. Casual wear is normal although more formal wear is customary at the casino and sophisticated
hotels. Visitors wishing to camp near villages should first inform the headman. He can normally help with customs.
Photography: Permission to photograph individuals should always be sought. In some cases, a gratuity may be asked for (especially if the
subject has gone to some effort to make a show – for example, by wearing traditional regalia). It is prohibited to photograph
the Royal Palace, the Royal Family, uniformed police, army personnel, army vehicles or aircraft and bank buildings.
Electricity
220/30 volts AC, 50Hz; South African/Indian-style plugs with two circular metal pins above a large circular grounding pin are
in use.
Overview 
