Matsamo Cultural Village and Ngwenya Glass Factory Tour
Experience your first leg of this tour by visiting the traditional Swazi Cultural Village on the South Africa / Swaziland border where you will enjoy a guided village tour, traditional singing, and dancing as well as a light lunch.
Matsamo Customs and Tradition Centre is a traditional settlement – including a cultural village – in the east of South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, near eSwatini (formerly called Swaziland). It is a must for visitors looking to experience authentic Swazi culture, which is well preserved in this area.
Matsamo is named after Chief Matsamo, a prominent Shongwe chief and contemporary of King Mswati II (who ruled from 1840 to 1868, and after whom the country is now named). Matsamo was the first Swazi chief to reside permanently in the area, and as a reward for his loyalty in defending the territory against invaders from the north, Mswati II placed him in charge of the region as an eminent member of Swazi royalty. Today the region, although in South Africa, is still under the control of the Matsamo Tribal Authority.
When you visit Matsamo Customs and Tradition Centre, you will be treated to age-old folk songs, rhythmic dance performances (including the famous Rain Dance), music played on authentic African instruments, plus traditional Swazi cuisine. You can also wander on a tour through the village with its many huts and spaces, interacting with the villagers as they go about their daily activities: cultivating their crops, preparing traditional food, and fashioning beautiful African craft works.
Second leg we move onto to Ngwenya Glass Factory in Swaziland, a charming complex set in large indigenous gardens and is considered one of Swaziland’s major tourists’ attractions!
Here a small group of Swazi craftsmen and women, with age old artistry, breathe life into enchanting interpretations of the animals and birds of Africa, imbuing each with its own irresistible personality. Witness first-hand the magical art of glassblowing from an overhead balcony. Each item handmade from 100 % recycled glass! Browse around the adjoining showroom which is well stocked and purchase your little memento of a truly African visit to our Kingdom.
Matsamo Cultural Village reviews on Tripadvisor
Ngwenya Glass Factory Tour reviews on Tripadvisor
Tour Duration:
• Tour last for 9-hours in total return to Grace of Africa
Price:
Single Pax: R3 450.00
2-4 Pax: R2 650.00 pp
5-6 Pax: R2 450.00 pp
