The Kingdom of eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) has been named as one of Lonely Planet’s top destinations for 2020.
While another kingdom, Bhutan, takes the number-one spot, eSwatini came was ranked fifth among the top 20 travel destinations for the upcoming year.
According to Forbes, this small country on the eastern edge of South Africa has been chosen as an emerging destination for tourists because of its new international airport, improved roads and its push for conservation efforts.
‘Eswatini offers mind-blowing wildlife watching, stunning scenery, adrenaline-boosting activities and colourful traditions, yet it has remained relatively undiscovered. Visitors in 2020 can experience the wonder of Eswatini ahead of the crowds as a new international airport and improved infrastructure make the country more accessible,’ said Tom Hall, Lonely Planet’s VP of Experience.
I am a grandchild of Ethan Mayisela of Alexandra.
A grandchild of Phumzile Khumalo of Dannahauser.
A granddaughter of Vuyiswa Msomi of Umlazi.
A granddaughter of Ephraim Masuku of ESwatini.I am proud of my heritage & the blood the courses through my veins.#HeritageDay pic.twitter.com/yGZk9FIlhQ
— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) September 24, 2019
The Lonely Planet entry recommends watching rhinos bathe at the watering holes of the Mkhaya Game Reserve, spotting wildlife during a hike in the mountain ranges of the Malolotja Nature Reserve, and observing the Umhlanga Dance Festival (Reed Dance Festival) at the Eludzidzini Royal Residence near Lobamba for visitors choosing this naturally and culturally rich country.
‘As an underrated yet up-and-coming African country, it’s an honour to have Eswatini named as one of the world’s top countries for travellers in 2020 and for it to be featured in Lonely Planet,’ said Eswatini Tourism Authority representative Kelly White on the Kingdom’s website.
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