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Africa Adventure Travel News

Africa Adventure Travel News - Edition 17 -
February 2008

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Did you know?

The leaves of the Waterberry Tree are made into an extract to cure diarrhoea and are often used as a purgative.

Travel Routes in Africa
Africa Adventure Travel News Map Swaziland

Located on the Mbabane River, you will find the country's administrative capital, Mbabane. Founded in 1903, the city is an ideal base from which to explore the vibrant Swazi Market, filled with many exciting treasures! North of Mbabane, travel through Pine Valley with a series of waterfalls to the granite heights of "Bald Rock". Onwards east, to Hlane Royal National Park, the largest protected area in the Kingdom. This nature reserve is dominated by ancient hardwood vegetation and shallow pans which attract great herds of animals during the dry winter months. Here you will find a diverse mix of game from lion, which are the symbol of royalty, to the more elusive white rhino. Many different species of birds grace the skies, and Halane is a must for any self-drive adventurer!

This is a country filled with a fascinating mix of old-world culture, despite the efforts to ensure modernisation. Travel down dusty roads and encounter Swazis clothed in traditional garments. The men often, still carry battle-axes and the women sport the traditional beehive hairstyle. Polygamous by nature, the headman advises his wives on all social affairs of the home as well as seeing to the larger survival of the family unit. Be sure to visit one of the may cultural villages scattered across the country and observe the heart of Swaziland!

Melissa Mann
From the Editor

The Kingdom of Swaziland is a small, landlocked country embedded between South Africa and Mozambique. One of the few absolute monarchies left in the world, Swaziland is ruled by King Mswati III, and is renowned for its ceremonial culture. The heir to the throne is chosen according to his mother's status and the Queen Mother plays a large part in the ruling of the country. Swaziland offers a wealth of opportunity from outdoor adventures to the shopping of souvenirs created by many talented individuals. A country rich in heritage and ancient customs, beautiful mountain scenery and fantastic game parks, any traveller here will be transformed!

Yours in Travel
Melissa Mann
 
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Swazi Craft Market
Lions at Hlane
Traditional Swazi Women

The capital city in Swaziland is Mbabane. The city holds a mainly functional appeal, with a vibrant Swazi Craft Market, while the surrounding areas provide the traveller an insight into scenic beauty.

In the bushveld of eastern Swaziland you will find Hlane Royal National Park, which used to be King Sobhuza's royal hunting grounds. It is now home to the largest game herds in the Kingdom.

Present-day Swaziland is alive with culture and tradition. From the Reed Dance, performed by maidens in traditional dress to the Ncwala Ceremony, attended by the King.

   
Mammals of Africa
Trees of Africa
Birds of Africa
Warthog
Waterberry Tree
Purple-Crested Lourie
Found all over Swaziland, the Warthog is a wild member of the pig family. Their name is derived from the four large wart-like tusks found on their heads.

A large sized evergreen tree, the Waterberry is found near streams. The timber is used in furniture manufacture and boat building, due to its durability in water.

The Purple-Crested Lourie is the National Bird of Swaziland. Despite their exotic colouring and boisterous behaviour, these birds are well camouflaged.

   
Drinks of Africa
Foods of Africa
Culture & Art of Africa
Coca-Cola Tins
Pumpkin Leaf Stew and Maize Meal
Swazi Beehive Hut
Coca-Cola has a large plant in Swaziland due to the easy access of raw sugar. It is a yearly tradition for the Swazi King to pay a visit to the CEO of Coca Cola in the USA.

Traditional Swazi food often includes maize meal and meat stew. A popular dish is umbidvo wetintsanga which is cooked pumpkin leaves, mixed with groundnuts.

The principle Swazi social unit is the homestead. The traditional beehive hut is thatched with dry grass, and each wife normally has her own huts and yard.

   
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