Volunteer Programs in Swaziland

Swaziland is one of smallest countries in Southern Hemisphere, sandwiched between Mozambique and South Africa. Blessed with plenty of natural beauty, it not surprising that Swaziland is filled with a large number of nature reserves and national parks, especially for a country of its size. However, Swaziland also hosts a handful of serious societal issues, including a high unemployment rate and limited government welfare programs, which means there are many underprivileged communities in need of volunteer support.

Located in northwest Swaziland, and also known as “The valley of heaven”, Ezulwini Valley is one of the busiest areas in the country, in terms of tourism. Most volunteering opportunities in the Ezulwini Valley are focused on hospitality, tourism, and (surprise, surprise) conservation, and based in Lobamba, which is the nation’s political capital.

Rural communities located throughout Swaziland are least likely to receive support from the national government, which leads to an incredibly high unemployment rate, but more importantly extreme poverty. At the same time, there are several reserves and national parks in the rural areas of Swaziland, where wild animals and many endangered species are given great care and the focus of the nation’s preservation efforts.