Mbabane, Swaziland's cool-climate capital is home to the Swazi Market, a must-see for souvenir-starved tourists. It lies at the south end of Allister Miller Street, the town's main shopping street. The stalls here brim with fresh produce, pottery, hand-made baskets, masks, traditional fabrics, soapstone carvings, and beaded jewellery. Particularly interesting is the traditional medicine center, with an impressive array of healing lotions and potions. About an hour's drive away, shoppers can see more Swazi crafts, including baskets, jewellery, and textiles at Tintsaba Crafts, just past the Piggs Peak Hotel.
A pleasant excursion from Mbabane is a trip up beautiful Pine Valley to the north of the town. The route follows the Mbuluzi River, passing a number of waterfalls. This is great walking and riding country, with agreeable temperatures, even in summer.
