Swaziland may be the smallest country in Africa but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heart. This country's greatest asset is the diversity of its attractions and activities on offer. This powerful combination of beautiful landscapes, majestic wildlife, and rich culture and traditions enables it to hold its own against the other bigger (and more popular) countries in Africa. The famous traditional Swazi ceremonies Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala for example, have attracted countless visitors from all over the world. Itineraries are easily customised to suit differing interests so that no one is left out. Find out from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours how you can do.
Hlane Royal National Park Most, if not all, visitors to Hlane Royal National Park visit for the same reason: big game. Hlane is home to four out of Africa's “Big 5” – lion, elephant, white rhino and giraffe – and also a whole host of other wildlife and birdlife. Go on customised safari tours, birding walks or cultural immersion for those who would like a feel of Swazi culture. Visit the Hlane Umphakatsi (Chief Village), an authentic living homestead and engage with the residents as they share their culture and traditions and invite you to participate in the Swazi way of life including the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Lusekwane (cutting of sacred sickle bush to fence around traditional structures in the King's residence).
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful and secluded sanctuary in Ezulwini Valley (also known as “Valley of Heavens”) which is Swaziland’s main tourist hub. The name “Mlilwane” meaning “little fire” in siSwati, was originally derived from the fires started by lightning strikes on the Mlilwane Hill but it took on greater significance after this sanctuary pioneered the conservation movement in Swaziland that saved over 22 species from local extinction. Game drives here promise abundant bird life and wildlife like the hippo, crocodile, wildebeest, kudu, impala, and warthog, to name a few. Cycling enthusiasts can try their hand at the many biking trails in the sanctuary and also get up close to the rich flora and fauna at the same time. Mlilwane is known for its mountain biking trails and plays host to one of the country's premier mountain biking competitions, the Imvelo MTB Classic.
Traditional Swazi Arts & Crafts
From intricate wood and stone carvings and exquisitely crafted candles to beautiful grass woven baskets and colourful batik products, Swazi craftspeople have acquired a reputation for an impressive range of traditional arts and crafts. It's no wonder that Swaziland's best shopping experiences come from Swazi products and traditional handicrafts. Make a stop at the many handicraft stalls all over, or head straight to the markets of Manzini and Mbabane for the best bargains. If you're lucky, some might be able to customise their products for buyers.
Looking for other unique holiday experiences in Africa? Try:
The unique charm of Swaziland will make you realise that size doesn't matter. Let Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours customise a tour package for you and your friends today, call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg to find out more.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival at the airport, meet your driver and hit the road to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Eswatini.
This morning, walk along the reserve’s Hippo Trail and spot hippos, wildebeest, impalas and zebras around the main hippo pool and central plains. In the afternoon, visit Swazi Cultural Village in Mantenga to learn about Swazi culture.
Hippo Pool
Today, spend the day at leisure in the sanctuary. You may choose to enjoy a traditional spa and treatment at your own expense or take a walk around the amazing reserve.
Game Drive
Today, visit Gone Rural and enjoy a community development tour which empowers local women through weaving. Here, learn about Swazi handicrafts in the workshop and the women behind these striking products loved all over the world. Next, enjoy a relaxing drive to Swazi Candles complex for lunch before proceeding to Malolotja Nature Reserve in time to view the sunset over the mountains.
Swazi Candles Complex
After breakfast, meet your hiking guide and head to Logwaja viewpoint for your 4-hour hiking adventure to the highest waterfalls in Eswatini. After your refreshing hike, freshen up before a visit to Ngwenya Glass complex for lunch and explore its glass factory to learn the amazing glass-blowing process as well as to browse the beautiful products produced by Eswatini’s artisans.
Eswatini Waterfalls
Today, enjoy a scenic drive to Maguga Dam, Eswantini’s largest reservoir to take memorable photos and enjoy the panoramic views while learning about the history and impact of the dam. Next, pass by the imposing Sibebe rock, the 2nd largest granite rock in the world before continuing to Mantenga Lodge. After checking in to the lodge, head over to the cultural village and enjoy a Swazi cultural dance performance. Then, take a stroll around the homestead to learn about local traditions.
Maguga Dam
Today, head to Mkhaya Game Reserve, Swaziland’s refuge for endangered species. Proceed for an adventure within the reserve either by open Land Rovers along a network of intersecting game tracks, or on foot, offering intimate wildlife encounters. The reserve is criss-crossed by dry riverbeds and dotted with waterholes and supports three of the Big Five – leopard, buffalo and rhino. Keep your eyes peeled for rare sightings of endangered species such as the black rhino. After breakfast, enjoy the day at leisure at the lodge.
Game Drive
Today, visit a wildlife research centre to learn about the significant conservation efforts in Eswantini whilst having lunch. Thereafter, head to Hlane Royal National Park and enjoy some free time at leisure before proceeding to a safari in the park to sight rhino and lions amongst other wildlife.
Game Drive
Today, journey to Shewula Mountain Camp, the first community eco-tourism project in Eswatini and one of the most successful in the whole of southern Africa. Proceed for an educational walk in the community and learn about life in Shewula. Visit a traditional thatch and stone house and learn from the friendly agricultural people of Shewula.
Shewula Mountain Camp
After breakfast, journey back to Johannesburg for your overnight stay.
Enjoy a private airport transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.