Swaziland Landmarks and Monuments

(Swaziland, SZ, Southern Africa)

Swaziland is home to beautiful mountains as well as lowland areas with their traditional Swazi settlements. So, visitors can expect to be treated to some fantastic scenery and natural landmarks, including rocky formations, deep gorges and panoramic views.

Monuments to the country's prehistoric and colonial past can also be explored, including ancient mineral mines and rock art.

A number of these are managed by the Swaziland National Trust Commission, such as both the Nsangwini Rock Paintings and the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park.

Sibebe Rock

Address: Pine Valley Road, Mbabane, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
This vast granite dome overlooks the city of Mbabane, being roughly 8 km / 5 miles away and to the north-east, where it dominates the area with its sheer size and bulk, and unusual 'stretch-mark' patterns. Towering at roughly 200 metres / 656 feet in height, Sibebe Rock is actually a record-breaker, since it is the biggest exposed granite dome on the planet. Whilst the rock isn't suitable for your average gentle stroll, adventure-seekers can enjoy the thrill of rock climbing, with guided hikes being recommended and often taking in nearby waterfalls and caves. Roughly half a million sightseers come here each year, many of which manage to reach the very top and enjoy some superb views.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Ngwenya Iron Ore Mine

Address: Bomvu Ridge, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
Tel: +268 2442 4241
Situated at the summit of Ngwenya Mountain, to the north-west of Mbabane, within the Malolotja Nature Reserve and close to the country's north-westerly border, this is one of the world's oldest iron ore mines. The Ngwenya Iron Ore Mine is believed to date back to the Middle Stone Age (more than 40,000 years), when hematite, an iron ore deposit, was mined and used to extract a red ochre colour, which was in turn used for rock paintings and also Stone Age cosmetics - face painting. A visitor centre has been built at the edge of the open cast mine, offering the chance to find out about the geology, archaeology and history of the area. The centre also features a steam engine and a replica furnace, with guided tours being available.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 - 16:00
Admission: charge

Ngwempisi Gorge

Address: Ngwempisi Gorge, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
This striking geological feature was carved out of the Ngwempisi River and is almost 20 km / 12 miles in length. Even today, it remains pretty much untouched by human settlement and intervention, thus providing a real sense of being in the African wilderness. More adventurous visitors may wish to try out the Ngwempisi hiking trail, which is run by the local community and extends almost 35 km / 22 miles into the Ntfungula Hills. The Khopho Hut is a particular landmark worth looking out for in the gorge, as is the Mhlabeni Hut. Of note, the Malkerns Valley is sited approximately 30 km / 19 miles to the north.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Nsangwini Rock Paintings

The Rock Art Shelter at Nsangwini is the largest of its kind in Swaziland. These ancient stylised paintings have been open to the public for the past 50 years, so there are signs of degradation. That said, the paintings are comprehensive, depicting animals and hunting parties, as well as dances and battle scenes. Nsangwini's best-known paintings feature two winged part-human, part-insect / part-bird figures. The shelter has recently been upgraded with visitors in mind and trained guides are now available.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

King Sobhuza II Memorial Park

Address: Lobamba, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
King Sobhuza's main claim to fame is as the monarch who led Swaziland to independence in the 1960s. This Memorial Park is located in Lobamba, where it comes with a memorial museum and mausoleum, as well as an enclosure complete with a bronze statue of Sobhuza himself. The park's Memorial Torch is lit to celebrate major events in Swaziland, including Independence Day and the king's birthday. Close by are a series of additional attractions, such as the Somhlolo National Stadium, the National Museum and also the Houses of Parliament.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Phophonyane Waterfalls / Phophonyane Falls

Address: Piggs Peak, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
During the summer months, visitors may like to escape the heat by taking a dip in the natural rock pool found near Swaziland's Phophonyane Waterfalls. Cascading down some 80 metres / 262 feet over rocks dating back more than 3.5 billion years, the falls are widely regarded as the best in the country and can be found roughly 8 km / 5 miles to the north of Piggs Peak town. Situated on a private nature reserve encompassing just over 1,235 acres / 500 hectares, the falls are the perfect place to find peace and quiet.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

House of Parliament

Address: Lobamba, Swaziland, SZ, Africa
Located in Lobamba and home to the country's government, the House of Parliament is a national landmark of great importance and is easy to find, standing right alongside the National Museum. The country's parliament comprises the Lower Chamber, which is otherwise known as the House of Assembly, and also the Upper Chamber, or Senate. Members represent the various tribal communities, while a small percentage have been appointed by none other than the king. Those lucky enough to be able to visit will learn all about regional Swazi legislation and laws, as well as the workings of the electoral system.
Open hours: occasionally opened to the general public - hours vary
Admission: charge