Ezulwini Valley

Lobamba is the heart of the Royal Ezulwini Valley, where monuments, museums, culture and crafts are to be found. King Mswati III lives in a grand residence in this valley and rules the Kingdom with his Queen Mother (known as Ndlovukazi, meaning 'she-elephant').

Every August the king gets a chance to add to his ever-growing number of wives at the traditional Umhlanga (Reed) Dance. All the young virgins perform in front of the Ndlovukazi and from amongst them the king chooses his next wife. Although the maidens' participation in the reed dance is voluntary, once the King chooses a bride from amongst the dancers, they cannot refuse the offer.

The previous King, the much loved Sobhuza II, was the world's longest reigning monarch and is said to have fathered more than 500 children during his 65-year reign.

This valley is where you will find most of the top hotels, as well as activities like 18-hole golf, horse riding and hiking. The nightlife in Ezulwini is also impressive. There is a stylish casino and many visitors partake in some neon and nakedness at the Why Not Disco. For a more traditional experience you can visit a traditional beehive hut village during the day.

The street stalls in Ezulwini are crammed with exquisite wooden sculptures and crafts. A popular purchase is a bright hand-woven basket in zigzag designs of greens, purples, yellows and reds.

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