Manzini

Manzini is Eswatini's second-largest city (behind the capital Mbabane) and its commercial hub, known locally as "The Hub." Founded as a trading post in 1885 and originally named Bremersdorp after its founder, the town served as colonial Swaziland's administrative headquarters before reverting to its Swazi name, Manzini, in 1960 — honoring Chief Manzini Mbokane, a trusted advisor to King Mbandzeni. Today it has a lively central market, a busy bus station, and a mix of colonial-era and modern buildings. While most tourists base themselves in the nearby Ezulwini Valley, Manzini offers a more authentic, workaday Swazi urban experience.

By car/road: 35 km southeast of Mbabane via the MR3 highway. Buses from all major towns.

Walkable city centre. Taxis for longer trips.

Manzini Market — the largest market in the country, busiest on Thursdays when sellers converge from across the kingdom to sell handmade crafts and produce.

Shop at the market. Experience Swazi urban life.

Restaurants in town.

Cafes and bars.

Several hotels.

Everything at the vast market — crafts, produce, clothing.

• Malkerns — 15 km west, craft valley
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary — 20 km west
• Mbabane — 35 km northwest
• Siteki — 60 km east