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Quick Facts
Location & Borders
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small, landlocked country located in southern Africa. It is situated between two larger countries, South Africa to the west, north, and south, and Mozambique to the east. Eswatini is nestled in the Drakensberg Mountains and the Lebombo Mountains, which form part of its borders with South Africa and Mozambique. The country's unique location, with its diverse geography and climate, makes it an interesting destination for travelers.
The country's borders with South Africa and Mozambique are well-defined, with several border crossings that allow for easy travel between the countries. Eswatini is a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Commonwealth of Nations, which has helped to promote economic and cultural ties with its neighboring countries. The country's location also makes it an important transit point for trade between South Africa and Mozambique, with several major roads and railways passing through its territory.
Terrain & Landscape
Eswatini's terrain is characterized by a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and plains. The Highveld region, which covers much of the country, is a plateau area with an average elevation of around 1,000 meters. The Highveld is home to several major towns, including the capital, Mbabane, and is the country's main agricultural region. The Lowveld region, which covers the eastern part of the country, is a low-lying area with an average elevation of around 200 meters. The Lowveld is home to several major game reserves and is known for its diverse wildlife.
The country's mountainous regions, including the Drakensberg Mountains and the Lebombo Mountains, offer breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. The Usutu River, which forms part of the country's border with South Africa, is a major waterway that flows through the Lowveld region and provides water for irrigation and drinking. Eswatini's diverse terrain and landscape make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The country's landscape is also dotted with several major granite formations, which are a distinctive feature of the Eswatini landscape. These formations, which include the Mlilwane Hills and the Nyonyane Mountains, are home to a range of unique flora and fauna and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Eswatini's diverse terrain and landscape make it a fascinating destination for travelers and a popular location for filming and photography.
Climate By Season
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | October to March | 20-30°C | high | hot and humid |
| Autumn | April to May | 15-25°C | moderate | mild and dry |
| Winter | June to August | 10-20°C | low | cool and dry |
| Spring | September to November | 15-25°C | moderate | mild and dry |
Best Time To Visit
Best months: September to November and March to May. Why: these months offer mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities and game viewing. Avoid: June to August, as the weather can be cool and dry, and October to December, as the weather can be hot and humid.
Natural Highlights
- Hlane Royal National Park, a major game reserve that is home to a range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching, with over 400 species of birds.
- Lubombo Mountains, a unique granite formation that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Usutu River, a major waterway that flows through the Lowveld region and provides water for irrigation and drinking.
- Ngwenya Glass Factory, a popular destination for craft enthusiasts, where visitors can watch glassblowing and buy unique souvenirs.
- Mantenga Nature Reserve, a scenic reserve that is home to a range of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles.