Things to Do in Ngwenya

Ngwenya means 'crocodile' in siSwati, though you won't see any reptiles in this sleepy border town in northwestern Eswatini. The place sits right on the South African border and feels refreshingly unpolished compared to other tourist spots. What draws visitors here is the famous Ngwenya Glass factory, where artisans transform recycled bottles into detailed glassware using decades-old techniques. The surrounding hills offer decent hiking. You can still experience the real Eswatini here.

The dining scene is straightforward. You'll find local restaurants serving traditional Swazi dishes alongside South African favorites like pap and vleis or curry and rice. The glass factory area has decent spots for day-trippers. Some guesthouses serve meals to non-guests if you call ahead. Many visitors cross into Barberton for dinner—more options and surprisingly good pub meals.

Visit between April and September for comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. Summer gets hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms that interfere with outdoor activities. Winter days are warm and sunny, though nights get surprisingly cool. The dry season works best for hiking and outdoor exploration. The glass factory operates year-round, so timing matters less if that's your main draw.