Africa
Royal ceremonies, rhino country and green mountain valleys.
Eswatini is one of Africa's smallest countries and one of its last absolute monarchies. Its highlands around the Ezulwini Valley are wrapped in forest and craft markets, while Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is gentle enough for walking and cycling among zebra. Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve are known for rhino, and Malolotja Nature Reserve has fine hiking.
Distances are short, so it pairs easily with Kruger in South Africa or with Mozambique. Traditional ceremonies such as the Umhlanga Reed Dance in late winter remain central to national life, and candle and glass workshops are worth a stop. May to September is dry, mild and best for wildlife; summer rains fall from November to March.
May, June, July, August, September.