African hidden gem The Kingdom of Eswatini has received yet more international recognition as an emerging, sought-after tourist destination, appearing at the top of a list of just 5 countries identified in Forbes magazine as Little-Known Nations that Deserve to Become Tourism Hotspots in 2021.
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Eswatini had already been named by leading global travel brand Lonely Planet as one of its ‘Best in Travel’ Top Destinations for 2020 so this latest accolade from the largest global business media brand in the world comes as no surprise. It also serves as confirmation that the abundant charms of this diminutive gem in southern Africa are becoming more widely recognised and appreciated.
At a time when vaccines are starting to roll out internationally and many people are setting their sights on their next vacation, ever-popular destinations are bracing for the return of the masses. But the Forbes articles sets out to highlight those countries that have so far been underrated when it comes to tourism, identifying 5 nations that “tend to fly under the radar” but “each one is equipped with abundant natural beauty, a fascinating culture, and a rich history that will turn any visitor into a lifelong fan.”
As with Lonely Planet before them, Forbes highlights Eswatini’s extraordinary diversity of beautiful scenery, as well as the intimate and thrilling safaris that the Kingdom offers, picking out one of the country’s many reserves: “For those hoping to spot native African species in their natural habitat, few destinations can compare to Mkhaya Game Reserve”.
Eswatini is also very well known for its rich traditional culture and warm and friendly people. Even though it is only a fraction of the size of its neighbours, Eswatini is jam-packed with a huge range of activities and experiences. And, that small size and warmth of welcome mean that it’s very easy to explore, and to experience all the great variety.
Eswatini Tourism Authority representative Kelly White said: “This is another great feather in the cap for Eswatini as it pushes to be recognised for its great diversity of tourism offerings. With accolades like this raining in from such esteemed and trusted media giants as Forbes and Lonely Planet, travellers from around the world can’t help but take note of Eswatini’s fantastic tourism credentials. Having also been the first full country in southern Africa to secure the WTTC Safe Travels Stamp based on its own robust set of Health & Safety protocols, Eswatini is also ensuring that its visitors can travel and explore as safely as possible even while the pandemic continues.”
