Things to do in Mbabane
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Edladleni
This self-proclaimed ‘Queen of Swazi food fit for a King’ almost lives up to its name; it’s got the best vegetarian options around. It’s about 6km from Mbabane, off the main highway. Opening hours are unreliable, however.
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Sibebe Rock
Taking care of errands is the main activity in Mbabane for most travellers but about 8km northeast of Mbabane is Sibebe Rock, a massive granite dome hulking over the surrounding countryside; the area is managed by the local community. Much of the rock is completely sheer, and dangerous if you should fall, but it’s a good adrenalin charge if you’re reasonably fit and relish looking down steep rock-faces. Swazi Trails, in Ezulwini Valley, takes half-day nontechnical climbs up the rock (E585 per person, including transport).
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All Out Africa
Runs a range of adventure trips and activities throughout Swaziland, plus to Kruger and Mozambique. Highly recommended is the half-day cultural tour through Lobamba, including an unscripted ‘what-you-see-is-what-you-get’ wander through the local village (per person R250; no minimum numbers).
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Finesse
This French-owned place offers a smart and elegant setting under a covered terrace, and serves a good range of seafood and meat dishes. Specialities include duck à l ’ orange, and for dessert, rich chocolate cake (the owner’s mother’s recipe).
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Indingilizi Gallery & Restaurant
This gallery has an idiosyncratic collection that’s pricey but well worth a look. There is traditional craft, including some interesting old pieces, and excellent art and craftwork by contemporary Swazi artists.
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La Casserole Restaurant
It has a French name, but this long-standing friendly place serves German and international cuisine, including pizzas. It also offers a few vegetarian dishes, plus a good wine selection.
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Plaza Tandoori Restaurant
It’s not the size of the Taj Mahal, but it’s certainly got the atmosphere. As well as great-value curries, the usual grills and burgers add a touch of the international.
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Jazz Friends
In Mbabane, try Jazz Friends, a cool, popular local hang-out with African music.
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African Fantasy
African Fantasy offers a selection of locally made T-shirts and cards; it also has a branch at Mantenga Craft Centre and the Gables Shopping Centre. The Gables, too, houses the Buhle Bakho Make Handicraft Centre.
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Mandla Masuku
For a taste of rural Swazi life – including a visit to Lobamba, a school and family – or game park visits, a good contact is local, French-speaking Mandla Masuku of Ekhaya Cultural Tours.
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Myxo Mdluli
For a taste of rural Swazi life, a good contact is local, French-speaking Myxo Mdluli , based near Manzini.
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Portofino
A small and relaxed coffee shop serving reasonable coffee and snacks, and located in the middle of the Mall.
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Hwa Li
A good spot for spring rolls, chow mein and spicy soups.
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Swazi Trails
Based in the Mantenga Craft Centre in Ezulwini Valley, this is one of the country’s major activity companies, and the place to go to for caving, rafting, hikes and general cultural and highlights tours.
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Sibebe Trails
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Ramblas
Mbabane’s top choice for good cuisine and a buzzing audience; located within the Serendipity Health complex; you’ll need to drive here. It’s worth the trip for a massive menu including great salads and meat dishes; breakfasts are served until 6pm, such is its popularity.
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Indingilizi Gallery & Restaurant
This longstanding place – a gallery with a small outdoor cafe – offers snacks and light lunches. At the time of research it was being renovated; it’s worth heading here in any case to see the gallery’s range of quirky items.
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