Swaziland Capital City, About Mbabane Tourism and Travel

(Swaziland, SZ, Southern Africa)

Mbabane is the executive capital of Swaziland, the smallest country in the southern hemisphere. Its main role is as a commercial hub and, in terms of its appearance, Mbabane is fairly typical of a small African city. However, the surrounding countryside, with its vast rocky outcrops, is what really makes this city stand out from others.

The capital may not have much in the way of tourist attractions, but certainly makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of Swaziland.

Tourism and General Information

Mbabane was established as a settlement in the late 19th century. However, it didn't actually become the capital of Swaziland until 1903. Until that point, the country's administrative centre had been in Manzini, then known as Bremersdorp.

The administration that took over the British Protectorate of Swaziland decided that the cooler hills of the country's Highveld region were a much more pleasant place to live.

With a population of just over 90,000 today, Mbabane feels comfortably small and friendly. It has managed to retain a 'local' charm and atmosphere that makes this city an ideal introduction to holidaying in Africa.

Mbabane itself has relatively few sightseeing opportunities - what it does have, though, is a plethora of local craft markets and souvenir-buying opportunities. A few surviving colonial buildings are in evidence, while a visit to the nearby Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a good day trip for tourists staying in Mbabane.