Lobamba is the traditional capital of Eswatini, and home to around 11,000 citizens.
Whereas Mbabane is the putative and political capital of the country, Lobamba is the traditional, spiritual, and legislative capital of this land, inside the Ezulwini Valley, or Valley of Heaven. It is touristy but still very aesthetic and peaceful.
Lobamba is about equidistant from Manzini or Mbabane, and King Mswati III International airport is about 75 km away. Try Transmagnific if you are in need of bus transportation within Eswatini, including to and from the airport.
Besides looking at curios at the Manzenga Cultural Center, you can also shop at the Ezulwini Handicrafts Centre and the Gables Shopping Center.
There are a lot of good choices around Lobamba. The Mantenga Cultural Village has traditional foods available as part of its cultural experience.
Numerous places exist, including homestays and hostels like Legends Backpackers whose vibe kind of seems like something out of Vang Vieng.
Sondzela Backpackers, Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Malkerns (west on MR103 out of Manzini, then west on MR27, then turn R on sanctuary entrance), -26.49551°, 31.19536°, +26825283943. A very unique hostel that sits inside the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see various types of African ungulates, zebra, and other wildlife practically on your doorstep. Accommodations are in Eswatini style-huts or in the main lodge adjacent to a large pool and gardens. Here you can meet up with many backpackers from around the world and plan hikes into the highveld terrain. ~$19 2020-08-04
Lidwala Lodge, -26.42424°, 31.17706°, +26824171791. Cabins and camping, with a pool/jacuzzi, bar, wifi, communal kitchen, nice grounds with a view, good for backpackers or families. ~$14 2020-08-04
Mantenga Lodge, 2 Mantenga Falls Road Mbabane Hhohho, H106 (just outside the Mantenga Cultural Village), -26.44047°, 31.18168°, +26824161049. Here you can stay where all the other tourists stay. No, but, it's actually a quality place with outdoor pool, wifi, restaurant/bar, comp. breakfast, views and hiking, and superior location. This is kind of like staying at a national park lodge in the US. You should check it out. ~$41 2020-08-04
Benka LifeStyle, -26.4535°, 31.1889°.
Lugogo Sun, -26.40941°, 31.17405°.
Royal Swazi Spa, -26.40831°, 31.16919°. This one is rather plush. 2020-08-04
Probably you will either be going through Manzini or Mbabane.
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