What makes Eswatini tick? Let’s back up. What’s Eswatini? Is that some kinda electronic stuff, like email? You know, electronic mail… Okay, cut the bull… Eswatini is the new name of Swaziland, one of the few remaining absolute kingdoms in the world today. Sometime in April 2018, the King announced that the country was going to drop its colonial name and be known now on as the Kingdom of Eswatini. A lot of people probably know about the country primarily because of the annual Umhlanga (Reed) festival, but truth be told, Eswatini has a whole lot more to offer tourists and visitors.

Significantly the year 2018 is an exciting one for the Kingdom of Eswatini as it celebrates its Independence Golden Jubilee (50 years), while it is also the quinquagesima birthday for King Mswati III. In recognition of these double 50 celebrations, there was a “50/50” Celebrations which took place in April, and it was during these that the historic change of name of country was announced. The name Eswatini reverts to the Swazi language name for the Kingdom, and it simply means Place of the Swati people.

In his speech, the King said, “As we are aware, the name Swaziland was inherited from the British. If we are to give true meaning to our independence, time has come to give our country a name of its people. It must be said that this process is long overdue…. Therefore, I have the pleasure to present to you, on this historic day, a new name for the kingdom. Our country will now be called Kingdom of Eswatini.”

Although the “50/50 Celebrations” has since taken place, while the reed dance won’t take place until late August or early September, there are enough reasons for tourists to visit Eswatini and explore the country’s stunning scenery, fascinating cultural experiences, thrilling safaris and exciting adventure activities which are available all year round!

In continuation of the mood of the “50/50” celebrations, the official tourism website of this charming Kingdom has decided to give fifty (50) reasons over a couple of months why Eswatini should be at the very top of your travel bucket list. Of course, the first five (5) reasons involved activities which already took place in April and you can find them here.

A tiny country with a big heart and warm, friendly people aptly describes Eswatini – a country that is one of the few remaining monarchies in Africa and embraces and upholds its own unique and ancient traditions. Both the monarchy and the people of Eswatini actively maintain and preserve a remarkable cultural heritage that is probably unmatched anywhere in Africa. The Swatis are a proud and extremely friendly people. They welcome visitors with a beaming smile and take pleasure in showing off their beautiful country.

The next five (5) reasons why you should visit Eswatini takes a focus on cultural highlights.

6. Mantenga Cultural Village

Mantenga Cultural Village is an excellent working reconstruction of a traditional homestead from around the 1850s, which gives an experience of all the complexities and nuances of traditional Swati life; as well as a quite tremendous dancing display by a group that tours the world.

Image(s) credit: Eswatini Tourism Authority

7. Shewula Mountain Camp

The Shewula Mountain Camp is a successful community venture, offering visitors a chance to stay among Swati people in hutted accommodation and experience the local life and culture. Guests are encouraged to explore the community neighbourhood with local guides. It’s also in a stunning location high in the Lubombo Mountains.

Image credit: Eswatini Tourism Authority

Image(s) credit: Chase and Peter Gutmann

8. Festivals

If there is one thing that Eswatini is known for around the world it is the magnificent traditional festivals that the country hosts – particularly the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala ceremonies. Both are living cultural events that, bar the odd wristwatch and mobile phone, have hardly changed in two hundred years. Visitors are allowed to watch, but neither ceremony makes any concession to tourism; even the precise dates are not published in advance, being dependent on the vagaries of ancestral astrology. The modern event that has gained an international reputation in far fewer years is the MTN BUSHFIRE Festival – a performing arts festival held every May.

Image credit: Eswatini Tourism Authority

Image credit: Bob Forrester

9. Nsangwini Rock Art Centre

Nsangwini is a unique and historic site high above the Komati River, and the best preserved site of rock art by the ancient San people. The site is over 4,000 years old and is run and maintained by the local Nsangwini community, with all profits from the site being reinvested in community projects.

Image(s) credit: Eswatini Tourism Authority

10. Lobamba Walking Tour

This half-day walking tour, organised by All Out Africa, takes you through one of the oldest and most famous villages in Eswatini. Starting off with an introduction to Swati history at the National Museum then on to the King’s royal residence, before exploring homes, small-scale unique businesses and a local art gallery before finishing the tour with a traditional Swati braai. The tour is fronted by an experienced local guide meaning you’re guaranteed to learn something new about this beautiful country and its culture.