The small mountainous kingdom of Swaziland is totally surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique. It is the smallest country on the African continent. Swaziland is named after the swazi, a Bantu tribe which has populated this area for centuries. It was recognised as an independant country by the British in 1881, later becoming a British protectorate. The country regained its independence in 1968 and today is ruled by King Mswati III.
In Swaziland you will find a very relaxed population, who would rather just enjoy themselves than demonstrate against the various reforms. They take good care of the country’s nature and wildlife, which has resulted in the establishment of a number of nature reserves and national parks. The country has a large population of elephants, as well as both the black and white rhinoceros.
Swaziland is the smallest country in the southern hemisphere, and a visa is required to enter the country. This is not something that needs to be arranged in advance, as it can be issued at the border crossing .