Top 8 Things To Do In Mbabane, Eswatini

1. Watch Big Five figurines being made at Ngwenya Glass Factory

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Ngwenya Glass Factory produces standard glasses and stemware for utilitarian use. They also create magnificent glass figurines of the Big Five. The complex is located in a green oasis at the foothills. They are proud to use recycled glass in their production. The people who make real-life glass reactions are men and women who are experts in their craft. A visit to the factory is a good opportunity to see their products on display firsthand. You and your traveling companions can also witness glass-blowing from a safe distance–close enough to be captivated for sure. Visit the website for a custom order a few days before your trip for a unique souvenir from Eswatini.

Ngwenya Glass Factory

Address: Ngwenya Industrial estates, Ngwenya / Mbabane MR3 highway, Ngwenya H104, Eswatini

Website: Ngwenya Glass Factory

Opening hours: 9am - 3pm (daily)

2. Find unique souvenirs at Mbabane Craft Market

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Expect to find local crafts at Mbabane Craft Market. Fabrics, baskets, and plenty of curious and striking souvenir items decorate the stores. Bargaining is allowed, of course. When you do get there you’ll find out the sellers also offer fresh fruits and vegetables. A visit to Mababne Craft Market is also a good opportunity to taste the local fare. Swazi artists and craftsmen make good use of soapstone to produce magnificent African animals. Look for top-quality souvenirs in stone, but remember to check out the wooden figurines as well. They are equally striking. The craft market is near the main road. It’s difficult to miss!

Mbabane Craft Market

Address: Allister Miller Street, Mbabane H100, Eswatini

3. Share tasty grub at Ramblas Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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This is a continental restaurant that serves locals and tourists six days a week and hosts important occasions and family affairs too. In the best of times, Ramblas Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner centred upon European and international cuisine. Their list of yummy dishes includes steak with mushroom, tender dry-aged T-bone, and a selection of cakes for a sweet ending to the meal. If you come in for brunch they will serve you with a menu that also includes vegan and vegetarian options. Late-night guests are welcome as well.

Ramblas Restaurant

Address: Mantsholo Rd, Golf Course, Mbabane, Mbabane H100 Eswatini (Swaziland)

Website: Ramblas Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 10pm (closed on Sun)

4. Shop 'til you drop at Swazi Plaza

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Swazi Plaza is the biggest shopping mall in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Shops and restaurants of all shapes and sizes provide basic necessities and exciting new diversions as well. More than 200 retailers are housed in the building. Some are locally-owned businesses while others are global brands. Aside from food, health, and fashion stops, Swazi Plaza offers shoppers places to facilitate business and banking transactions.

Swazi Plaza

Address: Mbabane, Eswatini

Website: Swazi Plaza

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7.30am - 10pm; Sat: 8am - 10pm; Sun: 9am - 9pm

5. Party the night away at Solanis

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Solanis is a local pub that serves good food and rad music. The pub’s DJs are particularly busy dishing out lively jams for anyone who cares to listen. It’s good to note that the Solanis Butchery/ Shisanyama is open from 10am to 6pm for meat lovers.

Solanis

Address: Corner Jojo and Jekwa Street, Msunduza H100 Mbabane, Swaziland

Website: Solanis

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 12am; Fri - Sun: 24 hours

6. Sit for a cuppa at eDish Cafe

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

eDish Cafe is a restaurant with an interesting proposition. It’s designed for adult conversation and bonding. It’s also a place for kids. The family-friendly establishment keeps reasonable hours on the weekdays and encourages people to go elsewhere during the weekends. Designed for casual dining from breakfast until dinner time, the main offerings are French-inspired. Try the smoothies and pastries. Check out the omelets and Greek salad with avocado slices. The coffee is delicious (the best in Mbabane). There are vegetarian-friendly items on their menu as well.

eDish Cafe

Address: Somhlolo Road, Mbabane, Eswatini

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

7. Buy essentials at Woodlands Shopping Centre

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Woodlands Shopping Centre is a popular local hangout. They have an inviting website that showcases the best the mall has to offer. The mall is accessible from the highway and is a stone’s throw from Mbabane Central Business District. It’s a one-stop mall where travelers go for essentials. Locals frequent the shopping centre to buy groceries, pay their bills, and catch up at a favorite cafe’s al fresco seating. The mall’s 21 retainers are always happy to serve patrons.

Woodlands Shopping Centre

Address: Mbangweni, Mbabane, Eswatini

Website: Woodlands Shopping Centre

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

8. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Tulip Crafts & Coffee Shop

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Tulip Crafts & Coffee Shop has a menu of tasty sandwiches. They have waffles and pancakes. They serve good coffee. But you have to see for yourself the homemade cakes. You could end up buying a baked treat even if there is no specific occasion to celebrate. You can celebrate your holiday in the capital of the seventh smallest country in Africa by land area. When you do stop by, ask the staff for their craft items (Hint: handmade mosaics).

Tulip Crafts & Coffee Shop

Address: Zwide Street, Mbabane, Eswatini

Website: Tulip Crafts & Coffee Shop

Visit Eswatini

Eswatini’s capital city of Mbabane offers contemporary comforts. You’ll have plenty of places to go to experience how far Swaziland has come. But, remember to look beyond city limits where wild Africa is just a brisk walk away.