Swaziland

Swaziland

Kingdom of Swaziland


The Kingdom of Swaziland is a small country in southern Africa, situated between Johannesburg and Cape Town and bordered by SOUTH AFRICA to the West and Mozambique to the East. The official capital of Swaziland is Mbabane, but historical capital to the Parliament building and the Royal residence located in Lobamba. The largest city and economic capital is Manzini. Swaziland is a fully independent monarchy and one of the most beautiful places on the planet. This is a unique country where modern rich life is complemented by the ancient culture of her Swazi nation. Swaziland provides a large variety of natural landscapes, from the mountainous areas along the border with Mozambique to savannah in the East and humid forests in the Northwest. Several rivers flow through the country, including the Lusutfu River. Swaziland’s chief tourist attraction is the annual traditional dance or Umhlanga Reed dance. Tourists are attracted by the natural beauty of the Kingdom of Swaziland and the possibility of organizing safaris there.




  Geography

The Kingdom of Swaziland is a small country in southern Africa, bordered by South Africa to the West and Mozambique to the East. Capital of Swaziland: Mbabane. Swaziland is a constitutional monarchy and is part of the British Commonwealth. The head of state is the King. Legislative body — Parliament of two houses (Senate and House of Assembly). Surface of Swaziland Highlands, going down to the east, to the coastal plain of Mozambique, three stages: high veld (1000-1500 m), the middle veld (400-800 m) and low veld (150-300 m). The West of the high veld is characterized by severe topography, peaks exceeding 1800 m. The highest point is Mount Emlembe (1862 m). The middle veld has a more level surface and is favorable for agriculture. The low veld is renowned for its pastures and forests. 53% of the population is Christian, 10% adhere to traditional African beliefs (animalism, fetishism, the cult of ancestors, forces of nature, etc.). There are also a small number of adherents of the Islam and of the Bahai faith.

  Vaccinations

Visit to Swaziland requires vaccination against yellow fever. Vaccination is advisable to be done at least 10 days before the planned entry into the country. Remember that vaccination is valid for 10 years, so you can also visit other African countries. The tolerability of this vaccination varies with individuals, but pregnant women should not be vaccinated. The country has a large number of HIV carriers.

  Customs

There is a restriction on import and export of national and foreign currencies. It is forbidden to import canned meat products, drugs and explosives, weapons and ammunition without proper clearance. You can export any goods purchased in the country duty free, For the export of skins of wild animals, you require the authorization of the state veterinary service. For transporting weapons, you must obtain a license from the border crossing point and extend it at police stations in the country. It is strictly forbidden to engage in entrepreneurship and exportation of minerals.

  Currency

International name: SZL, equal to 100 cents.
In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 shillings.
In monetary circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 10 emalangeni 20 emalangeni 50 emalangeni 100 emalangeni 200 emalangeni, coins of 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, 1 Lilangeni, 2 and 5 emalangeni. (Plural currency name sounds like emalangeni). The South African Rand is widespread and accepted for payment in almost all establishments. Currency exchange can be made in banks, specialized exchange offices, hotels and at the airport. Some major banks accept travel checks, credit cards (primarily MasterCard, American Express and visa), but these can only be used in the capital.

  Climate

The climate varies from subtropical to tropical, arid. Average temperature in summer is + 20-24 C, in winter + 12-15 C and rainfall of 500 to 1400 mm. in year. October - the hottest month, rain begins in early December and continues until April. At higher elevations the temperature is uneven, with frequent frosts and colder temperatures in the winter. The East low veld has a subtropical climate. Mid- winter - June to August is the best time to visit the country.

  Miscellaneous

Language: official language: Swazi, English.
Local dialects are widely used in the province.

  Transport

Left-hand traffic, as well as in neighboring South Africa and Mozambique. Swaziland’s roads are quite good (by African standards), with markings and signposts. Drivers are surprisingly polite and patient with other traffic participants.
Hiring a taxi: the average tariff (for the day) will be $ 50-70.
Car Rental in Swaziland is not popular among tourists, as most people who visit this country come in vehicles, rented from the neighboring South Africa, where it is more convenient and cheaper. Swaziland is not covered by major car rental companies. There are only small local firms: Imperial (Airport Office Mbabane) and Affordable Car Hire (office in the city centre). The opening of an Avis agency is anticipated.

  Cuisine

The national cuisine uses local fruit and vegetables, exotic game and fish from the surrounding oceans, and reflects a mixture of cultures and history. Classic dishes of the national cuisine are Baba Ganush, a couscous with seven vegetables and lamb, and pomegranate sorbet.