Swaziland

Swaziland

Approximately the size of Wales, Swaziland’s claim to fame lies in being one of the world's last remaining absolute monarchies. A tiny landlocked kingdom, the country was a British protectorate from 1906 till it became independent in 1968. The country is ruled by its king. Most of the population live in the countryside and follow traditional ways of life.

However the power of the king was challenged during 1990s when the country witnessed student and labour unrest forcing King Mswati III, to give political concessions. Recently, Swaziland zipped past Botswana as the country with the highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection in the world.

Travel overview

Rightly dubbed the 'Switzerland of Africa', the tiny mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland is known for its lush valleys, well-preserved national parks and game reserves. The capital Mbabane, for its dramatic scenery, makes it well-worth a visit.
Among the country's main attractions are the picturesque cities of Lobamba and Manzin; the magnificent Mantenga Falls; the casino resort of Piggs Peak; the Ezulwini Valley, famous for its scenic beauty and thermal springs.
Swaziland also has six national parks and game reserves, such as Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary near Mbabane, Mlawula Nature Reserve, Hlane Royal National Park in the lowveld, Malolotja Nature Reserve and the upmarket Mkhaya Game Reserve. These parks offer an amazing variety of wildlife including antelopes, zebras and endangered and rare black rhinos.