By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Sibebe Rock has earned a spot among the top 25 international tourist destinations for 2025, as highlighted by Cable News Network (CNN).
Nestled just 10 kilometers north of Mbabane, Sibebe Rock is the largest exposed granite pluton in the world. Often referred to as Africa’s answer to australia’s Uluru, it offers a serene and crowd-free hiking experience. According to CNN Travel, it is best explored with a guide during the dry season, from April to September, using marked trails for a challenging yet rewarding adventure.
Eswatini is also taking strides in cross-border tourism through the Triland 2024–2025 initiative. Partnering with South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province and Mozambique, the collaboration aims to establish a seamless tourism corridor across southeastern Africa.
Mpumalanga, famous for the Blyde River Canyon—the third largest canyon globally after the Grand Canyon and Namibia’s Fish River Canyon—adds lush subtropical vegetation and scenic attractions like God’s Window to this initiative. Visitors often combine visits to Mpumalanga with trips to Kruger National Park, located just over an hour away.
CNN’s list also features a diverse range of attractions worldwide, from cultural hubs to pristine natural landscapes. Here are some of the destinations included in the top 25 for 2025:
Almaty, Kazakhstan – A city known for its culinary delights, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to the stunning Tian Shan mountains.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India – A once-remote archipelago now accessible through new international flights, offering idyllic tropical retreats.
Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines – A Caribbean gem with white sand beaches and year-round warmth.
Bolivia – Celebrating its rich cultural heritage in 2025, this South American destination is gaining prominence.
Chemnitz, Germany – A historical city showcasing the world’s second-largest bronze bust of Karl Marx.
England’s Footpaths – Ancient trails offering breathtaking views of the English countryside.
Gdańsk, Poland – A city steeped in history and pivotal moments like the birth of the Solidarity movement.
Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan – A mountainous haven for adventure seekers.
Italian Luxury Trains – The launch of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express in April 2025 offers opulent journeys across Italy.
Kansai, Japan – Host of Expo 2025 and a gateway to exploring Japan’s Kansai region.
Mendoza, Argentina – A paradise for wine lovers located near the Andes.
Nashville, USA – Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry in 2025.
Niue, Polynesia – A marine park haven for grey reef sharks and endemic sea snakes.
Nuuk, Greenland – Made more accessible with the opening of a new international airport.
Rabat, Morocco – Emerging as a must-visit destination with its new cultural and luxury offerings.
Romania – A hidden gem in Europe, known for its Carpathian Mountains and Black Sea resorts.
San Francisco de Campeche, Mexico – A historic city on the Yucatán Peninsula with a top safety rating.
Taupō, New Zealand – Home to the dramatic Huka Falls on New Zealand’s North Island.
Vermont, USA – Offering picturesque rail trails for cycling, horseback riding, and skiing.
Sibebe’s inclusion in this prestigious list highlights its growing recognition as a unique natural attraction and underscores Eswatini’s efforts to position itself as a premier travel destination.
