Ngwenya

Ngwenya lies in the western Hhohho District right on the South African border and is one of Eswatini's most significant cultural and archaeological landmarks. The name means 'crocodile', a reference to the shape of the nearby mountains. Here is the world's oldest known mine: Lion Cavern, where red iron ochre was extracted for ritual purposes as long as 43,000 years ago. This discovery has made Ngwenya an important UNESCO candidate. Today, however, the region is best known for the Ngwenya Glass Factory, founded in 1979 by Swiss artist Charles Klugen, which produces beautiful animals, vases and drinking glasses exclusively from recycled glass. Ngwenya Glass employs around 70 artists and craftspeople and exports its products worldwide. The climate is cool with temperate summers and cold winters. The nearby Ngwenya border crossing into Oshoek (South Africa) is one of Eswatini's busiest, lying directly on the major Mbabane-Johannesburg route. Another highlight is the Malolotja Nature Reserve with its endemic plants, dramatic waterfalls and one of Africa's highest canopy walks.

Nearby cities

Mbabane

Nestled at the foot of the Dlangeni Hills, the capital of Eswatini is known for its cool mountain climate and clean streets.

Piggs Peak

Named after a gold prospector, this town is now a center of forestry and is surrounded by scenic forests.

Lobamba

Lobamba is the traditional and legislative heart of Eswatini, home to the parliament and the Ludzidzini Royal Village.

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Mantenga Nature Reserve

Mantenga Nature Reserve is famous for its beautiful waterfalls and the Swazi Cultural Village, offering a perfect blend of nature and her…

Ezulwini

Ezulwini, the 'Valley of Heaven', is Eswatini's tourism hub with top-tier hotels, casinos, and craft markets.

Havelock

Havelock, also known as Bulembu, was the site of one of the most significant mining operations in the country's history.

Bulembu

Once a flourishing asbestos mine, Bulembu is now a center for ecological farming and social projects.

Darkton

Located near the Ngwenya border, Darkton is a small place that serves as a gateway to the western part of the country.

Mondi

A small community near the capital that benefits from agriculture and proximity to Mbabane.

History & landmarks

Waterford Kamhlaba United World College

A world-renowned educational institution set in the hills above Mbabane, known for its stand against apartheid.

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Mbabane Clock Tower

A prominent clock tower in the center of Mbabane, serving as a landmark and symbol of the capital.

All Saints Cathedral

A significant Anglican cathedral in Mbabane, playing a central role in the religious life of the capital.

Swazi Plaza

The largest shopping center in the capital Mbabane, a central hub for trade and daily life.

High Court of Eswatini

The highest court in the country, an impressive building representing the judiciary and legal system of Eswatini.

Central Bank of Eswatini Building

A modern high-rise building in Mbabane, housing the headquarters of the country's financial administration.

Mbabane Central Market

A vibrant marketplace in the heart of the capital, known for fresh produce, traditional crafts, and authentic Swazi cuisine.

UN House Eswatini

The headquarters of various United Nations organizations in Eswatini, a symbol of international cooperation.

Nature

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Malolotja Falls

The highest waterfall in Eswatini plunges into a deep mountain gorge, offering a breathtaking sight.

Luphohlo Dam

A scenic reservoir near Mbabane, used for both power generation and recreation.

More places

Highveld Escarpment

The dramatic transition from the high west to the lower central Middleveld of Eswatini.

Ngwenya Glass Factory

An educational site where kids can see recycled glass being blown into intricate sculptures and ornaments.

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Oshoek Border Terminal

The busiest land port between Eswatini and South Africa, handling the bulk of daily goods traffic.

Ngwenya Mountain

This ancient mountain houses the world's oldest known mine and offers impressive views.

Dlangeni Hills

These verdant hills surround the capital Mbabane, offering a cool climate and fertile soil for agriculture.

Forbes Reef Mine Relics

The relics of Eswatini's first gold mine, which marked the beginning of the country's mining boom in the 1880s.

Mbabane Colonial District

The district houses buildings from the time of the British administration, reflecting the colonial architecture of the early 20th century.

Mbabane Old Government Quarter

This area encompasses the original administrative structures from which Eswatini was governed during the protectorate.