Eswatini has been named one of the world’s top countries for travellers in 2020 by Lonely Planet.
The country came fifth in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020, the anticipated annual collection of the best travel destinations, trends, journeys and experiences for the year ahead.
“Petite, pleasant and packed with culture, adventure and legendary wildlife, the newly named Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is one of Southern Africa’s most underrated (and least visited) destinations.”
Recommended experiences include:
- Watching wild rhinos bathe, lounge and drink at one of the many secluded waterholes within Mkhaya Game Reserve.
- Spotting zebra, eland, wildebeest, warthogs and more while on a short stroll, day hike or challenging multi-day trek in the rough mountain terrain of Malolotja Nature Reserve.
- Observing one of the continent’s greatest cultural events, the Umhlanga Dance Festival, which is held at the usually off-limits Eludzidzini Royal Residence near Lobamba.
Tom Hall, Lonely Planet’s VP of Experience, said: “Eswatini offers mind-blowing wildlife watching, stunning scenery, adrenaline-boosting activities and colourful traditions, yet it has remained relatively undiscovered. Visitors in 2020 can experience the wonder of Eswatini ahead of the crowds as a new international airport and improved infrastructure make the country more accessible.”
