Eswatini, Landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa.
Eswatini is a landlocked nation in southern Africa positioned between South Africa and Mozambique, with two capitals serving different functions: Mbabane for administration and Lobamba for the royal family. The relief divides into four zones from the western highlands with mountains above 1800 meters down to the eastern lowlands at 150 to 300 meters elevation.
Independence from the United Kingdom came in 1968 under King Sobhuza II, who governed until his death in 1982. The nation changed its name from Swaziland to Eswatini in 2018 to emphasize its precolonial identity.
The annual Umhlanga ceremony brings together young women from across the nation who cut reeds and carry them to the royal residence. This tradition shows the central role of the monarchy in daily life, where social structures still rely on principles of traditional chieftainship passed through generations.
Travelers typically reach the country through international airports in Johannesburg or Maputo, then continue by road through one of the border crossings. The period from May to September is considered favorable for a visit, as it falls within the dry season and temperatures are more comfortable.
The king rules alongside the Queen Mother, known as Indlovukazi, who holds equal authority in ceremonial and administrative matters. This dual leadership structure roots itself in Swazi cosmology, which views male and female principles as necessary complements for stability.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
