Swaziland has been independent since 1968 and is one of the last three monarchies left in Africa. His Majesty, King Mswati, rules this lush land, known for its fertile valleys and gigantic mountain ranges that surround the Kingdom.
The country is nestled between South Africa and Mozambique and is home to giraffes, antelopes, crocodiles, antelopes, zebras, wildebeest, and many more. One of the largest reserves is located at Phoponyane Falls. The reserve is 500 hectares in size and contains one of the many legends of Swaziland.
According to the folk tale, a beautiful maiden fell in love with a heroic warrior. In tradition, if a warrior wanted to marry a maiden, he would have to present a leopard skin, hunted on Gobolondo Mountain. After the warrior had scaled the slopes, he encountered one of the residential witches. She turned him into a white flower by invading her land, so that he would spend the rest of eternity blooming with the season.
When the warrior did not return, the maiden was banished to the river bank, where she cried non-stop. Her tears flowed into the water, causing the river to create the Phoponyane Falls. Legend has it, when the flower blooms in spring, it slowly stops crying, causing the falls to subside and gurgle.
For visitors to the region, Phoponyane contains many walks, game clocks, and bike rides. One of which is a 20 minute climb to a beautiful panoramic view. From here you can see the Lomati, Shashwane and Shelangubo rivers, traversing their journey through the Makhonjwa hills and the Sondeza mountain ranges.
To the west, the Bulembu Mountains tower over the village of Bulembu. The mountain reaches an impressive 1862 meters above sea level, making it the highest mountain range in the Kingdom. You can also make out the South African border from this point. The nature reserve also offers accommodation for adventurers wishing to explore the area.
The reserve is home to three individually designed independent cabins, all with private gardens and exquisite views of the valley with its lush forests. For some who wish to work a little more, there are Safari Tents, and for others who prefer a little more privacy, there are 2 hives en suite.
The nature reserve has its own à la carte restaurant. Swaziland is one of the few destinations that still has unspoiled terrain. The eyes can marvel for miles and miles at the beauty of nature. Each valley and corner has its own history and legend that the locals would love to tell you about. The Kingdom gets along exceptionally well with its neighbors and the feeling of welcome is everywhere.
