Malkerns is named after Malcolm Kerns, a trader who ran a trading store in the region at the beginning of the 1900's. Today the area is renowned for its arts and crafts, pineapple and sugar cane growing and the sheer magnificence of the surrounding hills and nature reserves.

Visitors looking for African curios or arts and crafts, need look no further than Malkerns. Here you can find wonderful mats, wall hangings, baskets, rugs, and a variety of other woven products, as well as delightful pottery and candles. Possibly the most famous of all the area's attractions is the making of hand-rolled candles. Tourists can purchase these internationally renowned colourful creations in Malkerns. Another notable location is Malandela's Homestead, which consists of a fascinating collection of buildings which include a craft shop, a pub and restaurant, a theatre and an Internet cafe. There are a number of well known game parks and reserves also situated within the district, and trips to Mkhaya Game Reserve and Hlane Royal National Park can be arranged, while the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is also within easy reach.

Malkerns is a small town, yet hosts a decent variety of activity to keep visitors occupied and entertained. The area boasts a pleasant climate and wonderful scenery, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and horseback trails, which are also extremely popular, while the British style pub is also a great venue to meet and gossip with the locals. For the adrenalin junkie, white water rafting on the Great Usutu River provides an incredible rush, while for the fisherman fly fishing along the river is good.

Other attractions include:

• House on Fire (live entertainment in theatre and music)
• Phondo Royal residence (home of King Mswati's several wives)
• Gone Rural (fine art craft shop)