Mbabane, Ngwenya Mine, and the Scenic Komati Valley
Meet your guide at an agreed-upon location.
Drive to Mbabane, Swaziland's capital city, where you will receive a short introduction to the city's history before continuing north to Malolotja Nature Reserve. Here, the old Ngwenya Iron Ore Mine is a significant feature. There is a small museum to visit and an optional 30-minute guided walk to the Lion Cavern. This relatively modest hollowing is undisputedly the excavation point of the oldest human remains in the world, dating to circa 43000 BC. Although it is now dwarfed by the iron ore excavation, it remains a fascinating insight into Stone Age history.
Stop at the Ngwenya Glass showroom and factory, where visitors can watch local artisans create art such as animal sculptures and exquisite tableware.
Continue further north towards the scenic Komati River Valley. A stop is made at the "Dragons' Teeth" point, an accessible example of the earth's original sedimentary crust. The ancient rocks here give clues to the earliest life forms on earth.
Make your way to the 110 m high Maguga Dam Wall to take in the scenic beauty of this area.
The return route to your hotel goes off the beaten track via district roads back to Pine Valley. These photogenic roads offer a glimpse into rural Swazi community areas.
Pass by the massive rock monolith en route to your hotel as the last highlight of the trip.
Your guide will drop you off at your accommodation in Mbabane after that.
