Introduction to Mbabane, Swaziland

Tucked in the jumble of granite peaks and valleys that make up the Dlangeni hills, Swaziland's administrative capital, MBABANE (pronounced "M-buh-ban"), is small, relaxed and unpretentious, with a population of only 90,000. The most popular route into Swaziland, through the Oshoek/Ngwenya border post, is only 20km west of Mbabane; the city roughly marks the point where the mountainous southern African highveld descends briefly into middleveld, before bottoming out further east as dry lowveld. This is a good base from which to start exploring Swaziland, especially if you're without your own transport: the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary lies not far south, and the royal village of Lobamba makes an easy day-trip – vital if you're here when the Umhlanga or Ncwala ceremonies take place. There's not much to do in the city, but many visitors find it more agreeable than hectic Manzini, especially if you need to change money, find a comfortable bed or plan your trip ahead.

Information by Rough Guides

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