SWAZILAND – Where to Stay, things to see and do
INTRODUCTION: SWAZILAND
During the 15th and 16th centuries, African people of Nguni descent migrated southward from Central Africa. Eventually, during the mid-18th century, a group of them settled in the area which is now Swaziland. These people, the Nkosi Dlamini, became known as the Swazis, and today both names live on in the country. Nkosi means ‘king’ and Dlamini is the surname of the royal family. The country derives its actual name from a later king, Mswati I, but another name, Ngwane, is an alternative word for Swaziland.
Serene and beautiful, Swaziland is renowned for its beauty and peaceful environment. Travellers are drawn to the land for many reasons: Its natural diversity, its breathtaking vistas, and its famously friendly locals. King Mswati III presides over the land, which is imbued with a strong African identity and informed by traditional values.
HOW TO GET THERE
| Trasport Services |
The main transport service includes Airlink Swaziland, the national airline, which is based at Matsapha Airport. Bookings are available through South African Airways. There are flights from Johannesburg twice daily. Local buses, taxis, and minibus taxis operate throughout the country.
WHAT TO SEE
- Bird watching: can be one of the quieter and more relaxing outdoor Activities.
- Game Viewing: Swaziland ‘s game and nature reserves are highly recommended for Big Five game viewing. Visitors have access to game viewing vehicles, and are free to roam the area on well marked guided or self guided trails.
- Hiking:Swaziland hiking is an ideal way to explore the beautifully diverse nature and wildlife of The Kingdom. Thanks to the country’s moderate climate, hiking visitors can explore Swaziland attractions at any time of year. People from all over the world travel to The Kingdom and enjoy walking along luscious trails that lead to spectacular views.
- Horse Riding:There are several ways to explore The Kingdom and horse riding is arguably one of the most fun. Views always seem to be more spectacular when seen from the back of a horse. Swaziland offers visitors the opportunity to discover the beautiful country along numerous horse riding trails that lead to Swaziland attractions.
If you are looking for unique Swaziland Activities, consider spending a day or two on the back of a horse. Not only will you be able to see the country from a new vantage point, but you can commune with nature at the same time. Continue reading to learn more about Swaziland horse riding and The Kingdom’s various trails. - White water rafting: White water rafting is one of the leading Swaziland Activities on offer, and you’re invited to take to the rapids to experience it for yourself. You don’t need any experience – in fact, you don’t even need to be a swimmer – but you will get wet! For any traveller seeking a true Swazi adventure experience, white water rafting on the Great Usutu River is not to be missed.
- Mountain climbing: From the slopes and mountain tops of Swaziland’s sweeping ranges, you’ll experience the panoramic views for which the country is famed. From this vantage point, take in the rural villages, diverse vegetation and rustic charm of the kingdom. Superb walking and hiking trails are to be found in the Malolotia Nature Reserve, situated in the Swazi highlands.
Swaziland currency and conversions
In Swaziland, the unit of currency is the Lilangeni (E1 – 100 cents), and its value is on a par with the South African Rand’s. The South African Rand can be used in the Kingdom of Swaziland (notes only). Local notes are issued in denominations of E200 (green), E100 (brown), E50 (orange), E20 (maroon) and E10 (blue). There are E5, E2, E1 in gold coins and 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c pieces in silver coins.
| Entry Requirements |
A valid passport is required from everyone who enters the Kingdom of Swaziland .
| Health |
Malaria is at a minimal risk in the lowveld areas. Avoid swimming in still or slow-moving dams and rivers as bilharzia is also a risk.
| Items To Bring |
Natural fibers are suitable for the very hot summers in the low lying areas of the Kingdom of Swaziland. Winter on the highveld can be very cold with the temperatures approaching freezing so warm clothing is necessary. Don’t forget your walking shoes.
SOUTH AFRICA – Where to Stay, things to see and do
With a population of 50.59-million, is a medium-sized country, with a total land area of 1 219 090 square kilometres, or roughly equivalent in size to Niger, Angola, Mali or Colombia. It is one-eighth the size of the US, about a third the size of the European Union, twice the size of France and over three times the size of Germany. It measures some 1 600km from north to south, and roughly the same from east to west.
A subtropical location, moderated by ocean on three sides of the country and the altitude of the interior plateau, makes South Africa a warm and sunny country. But it’s also dry, with an average annual rainfall of about 464mm. While the Western Cape gets most of its rainfall in winter, the rest of the country is mostly a summer-rainfall region.
Things to do in South Africa
Abseiling, rapp jumping
Bungee jumping, bridge swinging
Canoeing, rafting, kayaking
Fishing
Hiking
Horseback safaris and trails
Mountain biking
Paragliding
Rock climbing
Scuba diving
Skydiving
Sport & recreational flying
Surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing
Where to Stay:
EASTERN CAPE : SPECIAL GOLD PROMOTION
MPEKWENI BEACH RESORT:
Perfect beach destination for families, wedding parties, corporate incentive groups and business executives. Walk to the beach and watch the dolphins play… or simply relax with a drink around the pool and make your stay as enjoyable as possible!
RIVER HOTELS:
Riverhotels portfolio of hotels provide world-class accommodation across all markets, and offer the widest distribution of hotels in South Africa.
MORGAN BAY HOTEL:
Time spent in Morgan Bay epitomizes everything that a good holiday should entail – a good amount of rest, good company, good food, good times etc. It’s a place to get lost and find oneself, and a place to be oneself again.
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AREENA RIVER RESORT:
The Resort is situated on the banks of the Kwelera tidal river, 23 km east of East London city centre, at the beginning of the Cape Wild Coast. You can virtually fish from your tent on river front sites, and also park your boat along the jetty directly in front of you. And everyone loves to meet Abby, our friendly giraffe!
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CRAWFORD’S BEACH LODGE:
Offers rustic luxury accommodation for the most discerning of travelers, who are looking for fun, sun and relaxation. Crawford’s is nestled in the middle of the beautiful Chintsa (Cintsa) Bay on the Wild Coast, surrounded by rolling hills, lush tropical beach forests and overlooks the warm Indian Ocean.
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WYNFORD HOLIDAY FARM:
A quality & affordable holiday, immensely charming and magical, Wyndford offers a forgotten way of living that promises to renew your connection with your self, the people in your life, nature and with God.
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