Updated 2016
It’s a good thing that nature knows no boundaries. Swaziland gets the same wildlife and ecosystems as the rest of South Africa, and, despite being the smallest country on the continent, it draws enough of South Africa’s tourists that it is able to successfully augment its economy. Maybe that’s why the people there are so happy and friendly.
Swaziland’s forethought on behalf of its wildlife has left it with impressive national parks full of elephants, giraffes, hippos, as well as a few animals that we don’t even know the names of.
Start with Swaziland Travel Facts.
What to do
The Mkhaya game reserve was created to keep the Nguni breed of cattle from going extinct. Now, the reserve is home to black rhinos, tsessebes and elephants.
But if you really want to see elephants and rhinos, you want to be at Hlane Royal National Park. Hlane Park is one of the best places in the world to stalk elephants and rhinos on foot, with a camera. Just make sure that you’re not being stalked at the same time by one of the many cheetahs, lions and leopards in the park.
Read: Swaziland Attractions.
Getting there
The international airport in Swaziland is basically an air-shuttle to Johannesburg but it is a modern and up to date airport. All travel to Swaziland is through South Africa and most buses run between Cape Town and Johannesburg and Mbabane or Manzini.
Read: The Kingdom of Swaziland: General Information.
Where to stay
Swaziland’s tourist friendly economy and overall friendly people make it a joy to visit. The best places to stay are in the main cities of Mbabane and Manzini, where you’ll find hotels and resorts that cater to every problem and budget hostels that will save you some money on your trip.
Looking for more info before you venture into Swaziland? The message boards have got the answer to every travel question you’ll ever have and if they don’t, you can ask it.