Because of an ineptitude regarding size, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is a Southern African nation often overlooked by visitors to the continent. However, foolish is the one who judges the bite-size nation based on the distance from border to border: it compensates with various dynamic natural features.
A kingdom nestled between two geographically expansive countries, it is far more regal in a natural sense than it is politically. Any journey through Africa’s southern end requires at least a day-stop in Eswatini en route from one frontier to the next.
Here are a few reasons to visit Eswatini, ideas to fuel your wanderlust.
Foot Safaris
Despite the big-name safari opportunities on offer by its closest neighbours, Eswatini boasts an array of self-drive and foot safari prospects replete with as much flora and jaw dropping fauna as its famous counterparts. Its diminutive geographic dimensions don’t diminish the opportunity to experience some of Africa’s most enchanting natural features first-hand.
If the camera’s lens is in search of the long-necked elegance of an African giraffe or the black and white geometric dynamism of free-roaming zebras, then it won’t have to zoom far when on foot in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Standing often within arm’s reach of these majestic animals - or as close as one is game to inch - doesn’t get much wilder.
Nerves initially propelled me forward as I wandered along the grassy footpath. As animals grazed nearby and seemed disinterested in my presence, I relaxed into the safari and began to appreciate the solitude and beauty: I was alone on nature’s stage, amid some of the world’s most natural and endearing actors.
Welcoming Smiles
If it’s a hearty African welcome and all-embracing ear-to-ear smile one’s after, then look no further than Eswatini. Oozing exuberance, Swazi’s are open to accepting foreign visitors and guiding them along their respective journeys.
Although not on an official walking trip through the country, I was always greeted with affection when traipsing grassy plains on a foot safari or getting a feel for the country’s urban life in Manzini and Mbabane. I avoided guided ‘cultural tours’ – a voyeuristic attempt at cultural enlightenment and education – and opted for organic-cum-authentic education.
From the woman riverside washing her family’s clothing to the young man serving food at a local eatery, the smiles never ceased to flow; their soulful breadth emitted a warmth as satisfying as the feeling of the sun’s vibrant rays touching one’s skin on a cold winter day.
Ease of Movement
Getting around the miniature country is simple: hail a minibus taxi, squeeze onto a back seat beside other locals en route to various destinations, and relax.
Although bite-size, getting around the country can be mildly enduring, so patience is essential as is a degree of interpersonal aptitude. Stops are frequent, providing the perfect opportunity for enculturation.
As the landscape is not particularly mountainous, capturing a snapshot of the passing scenery – particularly when stopped to collect more passengers – is simple. Hang out the window, or simply ask the person seated close-by to capture a memoir. Better still, take a group selfie and share the love: doing so may leave you with longer lasting memories guaranteed to prompt a smile on a day at home filled with reminiscing.
