Big Bend - Discovering Swaziland

Travelling to Big Bend

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Big Bend, a pretty good destination in Swaziland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Big Bend and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Big Bend, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Swaziland, here's everything to know about Big Bend for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Big Bend

I'm sorry, but there seems to be some confusion. Big Bend is not located in Swaziland. Big Bend is a small town in the eastern part of Texas, USA, known for its stunning natural beauty and rugged wilderness areas. The town gets its name from a large bend in the Rio Grande river that runs through the nearby Big Bend National Park. If you have any questions about this location, feel free to ask!

What to visit in Big Bend

I'm sorry but I need to clarify that Big Bend is not located in Swaziland but in the state of Texas, USA. Below are the top tourist attractions in Big Bend National Park: 1. Santa Elena Canyon - It is a beautiful and narrow canyon carved by the Rio Grande river, which offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. Visitors can take a hiking trail or a guided rafting tour to explore the canyon. 2. Chisos Mountains - This mountain range offers breathtaking vistas of the desert, including several hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous. 3. Hot Springs Historic Trail - Visitors can relax in natural hot springs which were once frequented by Native Americans and outlaws. 4. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive - This scenic drive offers stunning views of the park's mountains and valleys, with several overlooks and interpretive signs. 5. Fossil Discovery Exhibit - This exhibit showcases fossils and artifacts found in the park, including a complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. 6. The Window - It is a natural rock formation that frames a breathtaking view of the Chisos Mountains and desert below. The Window Trail is a popular hiking trail that leads to this viewpoint. 7. Boquillas Canyon Trail - This easy hiking trail leads to a beautiful canyon along the Rio Grande River.
8. Lost Mine Trail - This moderately challenging hiking trail takes visitors to a scenic overlook of the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding desert. 9. Rio Grande Village - Visitors can explore historic structures and a nature trail, and enjoy scenic views of the Rio Grande River from the campground. 10. Ernst Tinaja - A beautiful natural pool and rock formation that visitors can reach by hiking the Ernst Tinaja Trail.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Swaziland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Big Bend.

When to go on holiday to Big Bend

The best time to visit Big Bend (Swaziland) is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this season, the weather is cooler, and there are fewer mosquitoes and other insects. Additionally, this is the best time for game viewing and outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching. However, it's also important to note that temperatures can drop significantly during the evening and night, so you should pack some warm clothing. If you're planning a trip during the wet season, which runs from October to April, be prepared for hot and humid weather, possible flooding, and limited access to certain areas due to road closures.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Big Bend

Big Bend is a town in Swaziland, located in the eastern part of the country near the border with South Africa. Here are the possible travel options to get there: 1. By Air: The nearest international airport is OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. From there, you can take a connecting flight to King Mswati III International Airport in Sikhuphe, Swaziland, which is about an hour drive from Big Bend.
2. By Road: Big Bend is easily accessible by road from South Africa. You can take a bus from Johannesburg or drive yourself. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and border crossing formalities.
3. By Private Transfer: You can also arrange for a private transfer from Johannesburg airport or other nearby towns. This option is more expensive but provides more comfort and convenience.
Once you arrive in Big Bend, you can explore the town's natural attractions such as hiking in Mlawula Nature Reserve or visit cultural sites such as Swazi Candle Factory or The Gables.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Big Bend, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Big Bend

Sure, I would be happy to help. However, I would like to clarify that Big Bend is a town in Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland) and not the other way around. Anyway, here are some of the typical foods of Eswatini with a short description for each of them: 1. Sishwala - a thick porridge made from maize meal and water. It is a staple food in Eswatini and is usually served with meat, stew, or vegetables.
2. Morogo - a traditional leafy green vegetable that is often cooked with tomato, onion, and a little bit of oil. It's a popular side dish in Eswatini and is believed to be rich in nutrients.
3. Incwancwa - a dish made from dried or smoked meat (usually beef or goat) and fat, pounded together and formed into a ball. It's a delicious snack that can be eaten on its own or used to flavor other dishes.
4. Umncweba - a type of cured pork that is air-dried and smoked. It is commonly eaten as a snack or used to flavor stews and other dishes.
5. Emasi - a type of sour milk that is made by leaving milk to ferment for a few days in a warm place. It's a popular drink in Eswatini and is believed to have some health benefits.
6. Tinkhobe - a type of sweet pumpkin that is often mashed and served as a side dish. It's usually cooked with onion, tomato, and a little bit of salt.
7. Mageu - a traditional drink made from fermented maize meal and water. It's a popular non-alcoholic drink in Eswatini and is believed to have some health benefits.
I hope this information helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Swaziland here.

Is Big Bend an expensive destination for tourists?

There seems to be some confusion here. Big Bend is actually a town in Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), not a destination. That said, Eswatini is generally considered a moderately-priced destination for tourists. Accommodation and food are affordable, but some attractions may be costly depending on the activity. It's always a good idea to research the specific activities and experiences you're interested in and create a budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Big Bend

Big Bend is a town in Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland) that is most known for its sugar industry and as a transportation hub. As for accommodations, most of the options are either in the town center or near the Big Bend sugar plantation. Some popular choices include the Royal Swazi Spa Hotel and the Summerfield Botanical Garden Hotel. If you are looking for more remote accommodations, there are also some lodges and campsites located within the Mlawula Nature Reserve.
You can check hotel prices at Big Bend here:
Booking.com

Is Big Bend a safe destination for tourists?

Please note that Big Bend is actually a town located in Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland). Overall, Eswatini is considered a relatively safe country for tourists. However, it is always important to exercise caution when traveling to any destination. It is recommended that travelers take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding any areas that are known to be high crime areas, not leaving valuables unattended, and always being aware of their surroundings. It may also be helpful to research any specific safety concerns related to the area of Big Bend before traveling there.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Swaziland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Big Bend.

What type of travelers will enjoy Big Bend the most?

Big Bend in Swaziland has something to offer for all types of travelers. Couples who are looking for a romantic getaway can enjoy the scenic views of the mountains, take nature walks, have picnics by the river, and spend quality time together.
Young people who are looking for some fun can go river rafting, hiking, and camping, and attend music festivals in the area. Big Bend also offers cultural experiences like visiting the Mkhaya Game Reserve and the Swazi Cultural Village.
Families can enjoy the Swaziland Railway, which offers scenic train rides through the countryside. Children will love the opportunity to learn about the local culture and wildlife, and families can participate in family-friendly activities like wildlife tours, horseback riding, and hot air balloon rides.
Overall, Big Bend in Swaziland offers something for everyone, and it is the ideal destination for couples, young people, and families who love adventure, nature, and cultural experiences.

How to get around Big Bend

To move around Big Bend in Swaziland, you can use various modes of transportation such as taxis, buses, and rental cars. Taxis are readily available and generally safer than buses, but they can be quite expensive for longer distances. Buses are a cheaper option, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. If you plan to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car might be a better option. Keep in mind that driving in Swaziland requires a valid international driver's license and a lot of caution, as roads can be narrow and in poor condition.

What to see around Big Bend

Certainly, here are some great places to visit for a day trip from Big Bend in Swaziland: 1. Malolotja Nature Reserve: This reserve boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls and wildlife, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas and bird-watching opportunities.
2. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: Located just outside of the capital city Mbabane, this sanctuary is home to a variety of game, including wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes. It also offers horseback riding, hiking trails and cultural village tours.
3. Piggs Peak: A historic town in the northern mountains of Swaziland, Piggs Peak is a great place to visit for its unique mix of cultures, colonial buildings, and scenic views.
4. Hlane Royal National Park: Well-known for its population of rhinos, this park offers game drives, bird-watching tours and camping opportunities.
5. Ezulwini Valley: Also known as the "Valley of Heaven," this lush valley is lined with hotels, craft markets and cultural attractions, including the popular Swazi Cultural Village. It's a great place to experience traditional Swazi culture and shop for souvenirs.
For every travel information about Swaziland you can click here.

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