Mbabane, the capital of West Eswatini, is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its stunning mountain backdrop, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and a wide array of cultural attractions, Mbabane is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. From the spectacular Malolotja Nature Reserve to the iconic Mantenga Cultural Village, here are the top 20 places to see in Mbabane, West Eswatini.
1. Malolotja Nature Reserve
Malolotja Nature Reserve is a stunning protected area of mountains, valleys, and rivers located in the north of West Eswatini. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the rare blue swallow, and offers visitors the chance to spot the Big Five game animals. There are also several hiking trails, an excellent camping ground, and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as birdwatching, mountain biking, and horse riding.
2. Mantenga Cultural Village
The Mantenga Cultural Village is a living museum that offers visitors an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the Swazi people. Located on the outskirts of Mbabane, the village consists of several traditional round huts, a craft centre, and a museum. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Swazi people, and can also take part in activities such as pottery making and wood carving.
3. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful protected area of grasslands and woodlands located in the east of West Eswatini. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, and visitors can take part in activities such as game drives, horseback riding, and guided walks. The sanctuary also has a campsite, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
4. Mlawula Nature Reserve
Mlawula Nature Reserve is a stunning protected area of mountains, valleys, and rivers located in the south of West Eswatini. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare sable antelope, and offers visitors the chance to spot the Big Five game animals. There are also several hiking trails, an excellent camping ground, and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as birdwatching, mountain biking, and horse riding.
5. Hawane Nature Reserve
Hawane Nature Reserve is a beautiful protected area of grasslands and woodlands located in the east of West Eswatini. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, and visitors can take part in activities such as game drives, horseback riding, and guided walks. The reserve also has a campsite, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
6. Lobamba Royal Village
Lobamba Royal Village is the traditional home of the Swazi Royal Family and is located in the west of West Eswatini. The village is a living museum and offers visitors an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the Swazi people. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Swazi people, and can also take part in activities such as pottery making and wood carving.
7. Somhlolo National Stadium
Somhlolo National Stadium is the largest stadium in West Eswatini and is located in the city of Mbabane. The stadium hosts a range of sporting events, including football, rugby, and athletics, and is also home to the Swazi national football team. The stadium also has a museum, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop.
8. Mhlambanyatsi Craft Market
Mhlambanyatsi Craft Market is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Mbabane. The market sells a wide range of traditional crafts, including wood carvings, pottery, and baskets, and is a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts. The market also has several restaurants and bars where visitors can sample local cuisine.
9. Maguga Dam
Maguga Dam is a stunning dam located in the northwest of West Eswatini. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, and also offers visitors the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. The dam also has a restaurant and a picnic area.
10. Sibebe Rock
Sibebe Rock is a spectacular rock formation located in the south of West Eswatini. It is the largest granite dome in the world and offers visitors the chance to explore its caves and unique rock formations. The rock also has a restaurant and a souvenir shop.
11. Piggs Peak Casino
Piggs Peak Casino is a popular casino located in the city of Mbabane. The casino offers a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and video poker, and is also home to a number of bars and restaurants.
12. Ngwenya Glass Factory
Ngwenya Glass Factory is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Mbabane. The factory produces a wide range of glassware, including bowls, vases, and sculptures, and visitors can also watch the glassblowing process and buy souvenirs in the gift shop.
13. Ezulwini Valley
Ezulwini Valley is a stunning valley located in the southwest of West Eswatini. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the rare sable antelope, and offers visitors the chance to spot the Big Five game animals. There are also several hiking trails, an excellent camping ground, and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as birdwatching, mountain biking, and horse riding.
14. Mbuluzi Game Reserve
Mbuluzi Game Reserve is a stunning protected area of grasslands and woodlands located in the east of West Eswatini. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, and visitors can take part in activities such as game drives, horseback riding, and guided walks. The reserve also has a campsite, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
15. Mgababa Dam
Mgababa Dam is a stunning dam located in the northwest of West Eswatini. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, and also offers visitors the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. The dam also has a restaurant and a picnic area.
16. Sibebe Rock Art
Sibebe Rock Art is a unique collection of ancient rock paintings located in the south of West Eswatini. The paintings are believed to be over 2000 years old and offer visitors an insight into the culture and beliefs of the ancient Swazi people.
17. Malkerns Valley
Malkerns Valley is a stunning valley located in the