Malandela’s

This Eswatini (Swaziland) tourist hotspot lies just 1km from Mahlanya on the road to Malkerns. Originating in a market stall on a family farm, it now comprises a cluster of buildings, all moulded from local earth in the contours and ochre hues of a traditional African settlement. At its heart is an excellent restaurant. Around this is an internet café and information centre, the funky Zoggs boutique, a gorgeous botanical garden and a boutique B&B, while next door are the major enterprises of Gone Rural and House on Fire.

The sweeping lawns, sculpture gardens, blossom and birdsong create a unique mellow vibe. House on Fire is part outdoor performance arena and part art gallery. This extraordinary creation centres upon a sunken ‘Afro-Shakespearian Globe Theatre’, around which are creative spaces on multiple levels for exhibitions, performances and other creative activities. Constructed in an eclectic fantasy style, it is embellished with mosaics and sculptures from numerous artists, and crammed with original work. The stage hosts everything from reggae bands to performance poets and every May the annual Bushfire festival – Eswatini’s answer to Glastonbury. This is an explosion of performing arts – including music, theatre, poetry and dance – that is now one of the top cultural events in Africa.

 
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