Swaziland - Useful information for your trip

The Kingdom of Swaziland is situated in Southern Africa, on the eastern side of Drakensberg mountains. A landlocked country, it has two capital cities, Mbabane is the administrative one and Lobamba is the real and legislative one.

Its territory stretches on a plateau and is divided into three areas, high Veld, a mountainous area traversed by deep valleys covered in forests, medium Veld, full of hills, and the low Veld, characterized by savannahs and plantations.

The climate is temperate and warm. Swaziland has many natural parks and reserves, the most interesting parks are Hlane Game Reserve, home to the rare white rhino, Malolotja Nature Reserve Mkhaya and Mlawula Nature Reserve, where several species of snakes and birds can be found, including rare bald ibis. There are also many private reserves run by land owners, often with luxurious manors which attract tourists with their competitions, sport events and banquets.

Swaziland's per capita income is higher than the African average. Agriculture takes up 11% of the national territory and thanks to the fertility of the land almost half of the population is employed in the primary sector. Huge landholdings are generally occupied by sugar or corn plantations, run with innovative methods.

Mineral extraction used to cover an important portion of the economy, but it is now losing its relevance. An important source of income is tourism. Visitors mainly come from South Africa but the sector is opening up to other markets. The protected areas, including Millwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Mlawula Nature Reserve e il Hlane National Park are certainly worth a visit.