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MMatsamo 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’s 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’ll 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 craft works.
Conveniently close to Kruger National Park, Matsamo Customs and Tradition Centre first opened its doors in 2001 and enjoys great support from the broader community. Each staffer has shares in the holding company, so the centre provides an income to more than 100 people, making it an award-winning responsible tourism project and a former winner of South Africa's Imvelo Responsible Tourism Award.
If you stay overnight, you'll sleep in a traditional ‘hive’ (beehive hut), nestled among other ‘hives’ in the village, and while they remain delightfully true to their African aesthetic, they do feature separate toilets, hot and cold water and air-conditioning for your comfort. Each ‘hive’ is also nicely secluded, so you can have a private braai or just relax in the rural village setting.
Also at Matsamo is a well stocked curio shop with local crafts, and a spacious restaurant with a stunning panoramic view.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Matsamo Customs and Tradition Centre
Tel: + 27 (0)13 781 0014
Email: info@matsamocustoms.com
How to get here
Matsamo is approximately 50km from Kruger National Park, situated at the Jeppes Reef Border Post between South Africa and eSwatini on the R570 national road.
Best time to visit
It gets very hot during mid-summer (December and January), so February to November may be more comfortable.
Around the area
Go on a game viewing safari to the famous Kruger National Park.
Tours to do
Matsamo is a stopover for various tour companies operating in the Kruger National Park area; search for current options online.
Where to stay
In one of the huts at Matsamo Customs and Tradition Centre’s cultural village.
What to eat
Introduce your tastebuds to traditional Swazi food
Best buys
Lovely handmade arts and crafts
Related links
South Africa on social media
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