Shopping in Swaziland
Shopping in Swaziland is a cultural journey in itself. Get some amazing local artefacts, pick up a souvenir to treasure or relax in one of the Swaziland Restaurants for a bite to eat during your day out. Our Swaziland Destination Guide will offer a number of suggestions.
Swaziland Ethnic Handcrafts can be found at the Mantenga Craft Centre, which was established in 1975 to promote the development of rural handicrafts in Swaziland.
For a true Swailand shopping experience, visit one of the many traditional markets. The most vibrant ones are in Manzini and Mbabane, with smaller versions in Lavumisa, Matata and Siteki. These markets sell a variety of foodstuffs, clothing and traditional medicines commonly purchased by local people. The Mahlanya Fruit Market on the MR 103 has a great selection of fruit and vegetables. Hot tip from your local connection...ask for "Mabel" at Mahlanya - this grandmother is our favourite vendor.
There are modern mall-type shopping centres in the capital of Mbabane, Manzini and the Ezulwini valley. Many international and South African chain stores can be found here, as well as banks.
The Ezulwini Valley, close to the Royal Swazi Sun, has the largest craft market with almost 500m of roadside stalls all side-by-side. This is a safe venue for spending time browsing and haggling for good value.
The most famous Swaziland crafts include Ngwenya Glass (near Oshoek Border), Swazi Candles in Malkerns, woven sisal baskets and jewelry from Tintsaba Craft in Piggs Peak, lutinzi grassware from Gone Rural and colourful cloth from Baobab Batik both in Malkerns, whilst Mantenga Craft Centre (est. in 1975) has great selection of unique outlets for locally produced craft.
If you are wishing to shop in Swaziland from a distance, Swaziland's top art and craft producers have joined forces under the banner of Pure Swazi.com - visit this site to buy online.