Swaziland, is one of Africa's few remaining kingdoms, and for whatever good, bad or cultural reasons, there is much emphasis on Royal comings and goings. There is a strong clan system which seems to give the country a stability which many others lack. Add that to the game reserves and the hugely scenic nature reserves and there are plenty reasons to come.
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Budget Accommodation in Swaziland
There is some backpacker accommodation in Mbabane, some better than others. Elsewhere there are a few backpacker hostels scattered around, in the nature reserves there are usually lodges, caravan parks and campsites for tents although there is no electricity at the majority of these.
A Traveller's Budget for Swaziland
Although cheap accommodation might be a little thin on the ground, cheap food is not and restaurants with reasonable priced menus are pretty easy to come by. The food isn't all African , there are cheap pizzas available and seafood is popular.
To travel around the country, take your chances on the somewhat spartan bus service, or use the slightly more expensive but much more frequent minibus taxis. If you want to hitch it's easier here than in, say, South Africa due to less racial tension but it's not without it's risks, which you should always be aware of when accepting lifts from complete strangers. All in all between US$20 and $30 per day should get you by with some left over for activities.
Budget Activities in Swaziland
White Water Rafting on the Usutu river
Spotting Black Rhino in the Mkhaya Game Reserve (the accommodation inside the park isn't cheap, but you'll probably seea rhino!)
Horse Riding in the Ezulwini Valley
Mountain biking in the Miliwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Hiking in the Malolotja Nature Reserve
