Imagine the garden of Eden bristling with nature’s wonders; woodlands, wild flowers, wild animals and colourful birds and you are close to the reality that is Swaziland today. This landlocked Kingdom nestling between South Africa and Mozambique is imbued with unique characteristics – a sort of a throwback to the days when the noise of water cascading through pristine valleys was the only sound heard for miles around in many parts of the world. Although Swaziland’s geographical area is only 17,000 square kilometres its physical features typify those of the whole continent; with the exception of desert. The lowveld which accounts for around 40 percent of the country is subtropical and also prone to drought. The mountainous highveld to the west has a temperate climate of warm wet summers and cool dry winters. The middleveld is picturesque with lush fertile valleys and a warm climate. For nature lovers, the Lubombo region which runs from north to south is a ‘must-visit’. It has the greatest concentration of nature reserves comprising Hlane, Mlawula, Mbuluzi, Shewula, Mkhaya, Nisela and Muti. Hlane which is held in trust by His Majesty King Mswati 111 is ideal for game drives, and bird watching. Visitors can expect to see lions, rhinos, elephants and leopards. Mkhaya, which is Swaziland’s refuge for endangered species offers intimate game encounters with day tours and overnight accommodation available. For those who prefer to discover the Kingdom’s hidden trails on the back of a horse Chubeka Trails are your best option.
Full name: The Kingdom of Swaziland
Population: 1.1 million (UN, 2005)
Capital: Mbabane
Area: 17,364 sq km (6,704 sq miles)
Major languages: Swazi, English (both official)
Major religions: Christianity, indigenous beliefs
Life expectancy: 32 years (men), 33 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Lilangeni = 100 cents
Main exports: Sugar, wood pulp, minerals
GNI per capita: US $2,280 (World Bank, 2006)
Internet domain: .sz
International dialling code: +268
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