Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
A traditional village near Swaziland
Matsamo Cultural Village
Matsamo Cultural Village
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Chief Matsamo linked with King Mswati II to create a formidable defence against invading tribes.
Matsamo Cultural Village is a traditional village near Swaziland and 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. He 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 allowed Chief Matsamo to remain in charge of the region as an eminent member of Swazi royalty. Today the region is still under the control of the Matsamo Tribal Authority.
Visitors to Matsamo Cultural Village are treated to age-old folk songs, rhythmic dance performances, including the famous ‘Rain Dance', and music using authentic African instruments, as well as traditional Swazi cuisine. They can also wander on a tour through the village with its many huts and seclusions, interacting with the villagers as they go about their daily activities, cultivating their crops, preparing traditional food and fashioning beautiful craft works.
Matsamo Cultural Village near Kruger Park first opened its doors in 2001 and enjoys great support from the broader community. Each staffer has shares in the holding company and it provides an income to more than 100 people, making it an award-winning responsible tourism project (winner of South Africa's Imvelo Responsible Tourism Award).
Overnighting visitors are accommodated in traditional ‘hives', 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 guests can have a private barbeque 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.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Matsamo Cultural Village
Tel: + 27 (0) 13 781 0578
Fax: +27 (0) 13 781 0306
Mobile: +27 (0) 82 457 8964
Email: info@matsamo.co.za
Nick's Wildlife Safaris & Tours
Tel: +27 73 207 3797
Email: africa@nicksafaris.co.za
How to get here
Matsamo is approximately 50km from the Kruger National Park, situated at the Jeppes Reef Border Post between South Africa and Swaziland on the R570 national road.
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 the Kruger Park area, notably Nick's Wildlife Safaris.
Where to stay
In one of the huts at Matsamo cultural village.