Welcome

The Kingdom of Eswatini, formerly known as the Kingdom of Swaziland, is the tiniest landlocked nation in the southern hemisphere and ranks as the second smallest country on the African continent. It stands out as one of the few remaining absolute monarchies in the world.

This country boasts a vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, featuring majestic mountains, lush valleys, dense forests, and expansive plains. Eswatini boasts untouched wildlife reserves scattered throughout the country, sheltering The Big Five. Visitors eager for hiking, biking, and rock climbing will discover an abundance of thrilling opportunities awaiting them.

With rich culture, fascinating history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes all combined in one country, Eswatini is an exciting destination for anyone eager to explore the African continent.

Exploration and Terrain

Eswatini is a compact, landlocked nation, bordered by South Africa to the north, west, and south, with Mozambique to the east. The country stretches around 175 km (110 miles) from north to south and 130 km (80 miles) from west to east. The nation was known as the Kingdom of Swaziland until April 2018, when the king declared a new official name: the Kingdom of Eswatini – Home of the Swatis.

The country’s administrative centre is Mbabane – once the vibrant capital during British colonial rule. The national capital is positioned 11 miles from Mbabane, at Phondvo, near Lobamba, where the parliament buildings and various national institutions can be found. This is also the residence of King Mswati III and his mother.

A rich and intricate geologic past has shaped a landscape brimming with diverse relief, climate, and soils, all within the confines of a small country. The oldest formations can be found in the west, while the youngest are located in the east.

Boundary separating South Africa and eSwatini cred Safa Hovinen
Border between South Africa and Eswatini (Photo: Safa Hovinen)

Atmosphere and Weather Conditions

Eswatini boasts a subtropical climate, shaped significantly by its location on the eastern side of southern Africa. This positioning allows it to receive refreshing moist maritime tropical air from the Indian Ocean. Variations in elevation give rise to three distinct regions, each boasting its own unique climate and environment. Traveling from west to east, you will encounter the Highveld, Middleveld, and Lowveld, where the Lowveld boasts a wealth of nature parks throughout the country.

Summer daytime temperatures can soar, particularly between September and November. The morning greets you with a cool 18°C (64°F), while the afternoon warms up to a lively 30°C (86°F). The primary rainy season in Eswatini spans from mid-October to mid-April. In the western part of the country, the skies open up more frequently, showering the land with generous rainfall thanks to the soaring heights. Rain often arrives as lively afternoon showers or thrilling thunderstorms.

The winter months from May to August bring dry, sunny days and chilly nights, perfect for exploration. This coincides with the primary dry season, lasting from mid-April to mid-October. During winter, temperatures typically start at a cool 10°C (50°F) in the morning and warm up to a pleasant 25°C (77°F) by the afternoon.

Demographics and Linguistics

Eswatini boasts a population of 1.1 million people. The population of Eswatini is primarily made up of ethnic Swati, with a blend of a few Zulus and white Africans, mainly of British and Afrikaner descent.

The official languages of the country are Siswati and English. Government and commercial business is primarily carried out in English.

Faith

In Eswatini, Christianity holds a prominent place as the leading religion. The country is home to a vibrant tapestry of Christian communities, including Anglican, Protestant, indigenous African churches, African Zionist groups, and Roman Catholics, all contributing to a rich spiritual landscape.

Classic Cuisine and Beverages of Eswatini

The traditional diet in Eswatini features a delightful array of grains, vibrant vegetables, and succulent meats like goat and chicken. Maize and sorghum stand as the primary staples. Pumpkin, green beans, maize, spinach, beetroot, rice, and sweet potatoes, along with fruit such as mango, guava, papaya, bananas, pineapple, sugar cane, and avocado are all abundant and cherished in Eswatini.

Pounded maize serves as a fundamental staple, prepared in numerous exciting ways. Sishwala is a hearty maize porridge, brimming with the delightful flavors of vegetables and meat. Incwancwa is a unique twist on this. Siphuphe setindlubu is crafted by incorporating pounded groundnuts, while Siphuphe semabhontjisi is created with pounded beans, and Sidvudvu is prepared by adding pumpkin. Emahewu is a light, tangy porridge that offers a delightful experience as a refreshing liquid meal.

Tinkhobe is whole maize that has been boiled to perfection.

Umbidvo wetintsanga is a delightful dish made from cooked pumpkin leaves blended with ground nuts.

Emasi, a delightful sour milk, is crafted from fresh raw cow’s milk. The milk undergoes fermentation before being carefully strained. Emasi plays a key role in two traditional dishes: Emasi etinkhobe temmbila, which combines ground maize with sour milk, and Emasi emabele, featuring ground sorghum mixed with sour milk.

Umncweba is a type of dried, uncooked meat that resembles biltong. It is frequently soaked in tangy vinegar and aromatic spices, making it a delightful snack to savor. Umkhunsu shares similarities, yet the meat is cooked prior to being set out to dry.

Umcombotsi / Tjwala, a traditional beer, is crafted from a blend of fermented maize, maize malt, sorghum malt, yeast, and water.

Sibebe Premium Lager stands out as the leading choice among locally brewed beers in Eswatini.

Swati cultural village at Mantenga Nature Reserve image Hrag Vartanian.jpg
Swati cultural village (Image: Hrag Vartanian)

Travel Documentation Essentials

To embark on your journey to Eswatini, make sure your passport is fully valid for at least three months. Citizens of many Commonwealth nations, the USA, Japan, most European Union countries, and several other nations can explore without the need for visas.

Visitors for leisure or work can explore Eswatini for a duration of up to 30 days. After this, you have the opportunity to seek an additional 30-day extension at the Ministry of Home Affairs. If you plan to stay for more than 60 days, it is necessary to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP).

For an exhaustive list of visa rules and requirements, be sure to explore the official government website.

Make sure to find out if you require any vaccinations for your journey to Eswatini by exploring the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

If you are planning a trip to South Africa or Mozambique before or after your adventure in Eswatini, make sure your passport has at least 2 extra blank pages when you show it at immigration to enter or exit Eswatini.

Traditional Dancers cred Brook Ward.jpg
Traditional dancers (Photo: Brook Ward)

Money
The official currency in Lesotho is the Lilangeni (SZL), represented by a L or an E. The Lilangeni is divided into 100 units known as cents.

Currency is available in notes of E10, E20, E50, E100, and E200, while coins include 10, 20, and 50 cents, along with L1, E2, and E5 denominations.

In this vibrant land, the local currency notes and coins serve as the heartbeat of commerce, embraced in restaurants, shops, hotels, and lodges alike. Eswatini’s currency is linked to the South African rand at a 1:1 ratio, and both currencies are recognized as legal tender in Eswatini, although change will typically be provided in emalangeni.

ATMs can be found in many places across Eswatini, but in rural areas, cards may not be accepted, so it is wise to carry cash with you.

Piggs Peak (Image: Colin PDX)

Power
In Eswatini, you will find power plugs and sockets that are of type M. The typical voltage is 230 V, and the usual frequency is 50 Hz.

Global Calling Code
The international dialing code for Eswatini is +268.

Telecommunications
Telecommunications in Eswatini encompasses newspapers, radio, television, fixed and mobile telephones, and the internet.

Internet cafes are present in Mbabane, though they are not abundant. In rural areas, the internet remains elusive, hindered by inadequate communications infrastructure and the steep costs associated with access.

Mbabane cred Safa Hovinen
Mbabane, the administrative capital of Eswatini (Photo: Safa Hovinen)

Travel
The sole international gateway of the nation is King Mswati III International Airport, nestled in the eastern region of the country. Flights to Eswatini make a thrilling connection through Johannesburg in South Africa.

Journeying by road is the most popular way to get around in Eswatini. Driving into Eswatini offers a straightforward experience, yet it is essential for drivers to stay alert for potholes, pedestrians, and roaming livestock.

Vehicles entering Eswatini encounter road toll fees. Border posts do not have Bureau de Change facilities, but you can use South African Rands here. When driving into Eswatini with a rental car, ensure you have a letter from the car hire company, along with a valid driver’s license and passport.

Some border crossings welcome travelers around the clock, while others greet you from 06:00 to 22:00. Moreover, the effects of Covid may result in some border posts being closed.

In Eswatini, you will find that traffic flows on the left side of the road, just like in the rest of southern Africa. Drivers must have their driving licence or an international licence in English. The roads around the main towns are well-maintained, featuring smooth tarmac surfaces and adequate street lighting after dark. Beyond the main towns, the roads transform into gravel paths, often marked by their rugged and uneven surfaces. In more secluded regions, it is advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle.

In Eswatini, the roads can be unpredictable, making it essential to stay alert and cautious while navigating them. Always buckle up and steer clear of nighttime driving whenever you can.

Fueling stations can be found in every major town, at many border crossings, and at several important road intersections. A pump attendant is typically available to fuel your vehicle, and they might also inspect your oil and water levels while giving your windscreen a thorough clean; a small tip is always appreciated, though not required. Big filling stations will feature a shop stocked with essential supplies, along with a garage ready to tackle punctures and handle other small mechanical issues.

Eswatini boasts a vast bus network, yet the services often face challenges such as overcrowding, unreliability, and potential safety concerns. Local authorities often advise against tourists using public buses for their journeys. Mbabane and Manzini both boast bustling bus ranks, yet the timetables often remain elusive and unposted.

Moments
The time zone in Eswatini is GMT+2, aligning with South Africa Standard Time.

Lion cub captured in Hlane Royal National Park, photo by Rene Leubert
Lion cub in Hlane Royal National Park (Photo: Rene Leubert)

Wellness
Healthcare in Eswatini offers a basic level of service, yet it often faces challenges, including frequent shortages of even the most common medications. In the event of serious accidents and emergencies, a medical evacuation to South Africa becomes essential. Local private hospitals can facilitate evacuation, but this is contingent upon having full insurance or the ability to provide funds upfront. Ensure you have sufficient travel health insurance and readily available funds to cover any medical treatment overseas and repatriation costs.

Staying informed about tetanus, polio, diphtheria, and hepatitis A is a smart choice. If you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic area, you will need to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever, but there is no requirement for a yellow fever vaccine specifically for Eswatini. Before embarking on your journey to Eswatini, it is wise to check in with your doctor and make sure your routine vaccines are current.

Anti-Malarial medication is necessary only when venturing to the eastern part of the country. The HIV/AIDS infection rate is notably high, so it is essential to take all necessary precautions.

It is not unusual for tourists to encounter security checks from border forces and local police.

Stay alert and take precautions to safeguard yourself from sunstroke, snake bites, tick-bite fever, Sleeping Sickness, and Bilharzia.

Protection

Eswatini offers a welcoming atmosphere for travelers, where visitors are rarely the focus of any threats. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Swati culture, and a typical visitor will find Eswatini to be a welcoming and laid-back destination to explore.

Although crime rates tend to be low, there are instances of street crimes and burglaries that may involve violence. During holiday periods, one may notice a rise in criminal activity. It is wise to steer clear of strolling through the urban landscapes of Mbabane and Manzini after sunset, and to refrain from venturing into remote rural regions unless accompanied by a group. Manzini is often viewed as having a more troublesome reputation for minor offenses than Mbabane.

Keep your belongings like mobile phones, cameras, and handbags hidden away, and steer clear of carrying large sums of cash or flaunting expensive jewelry.

The roads in Eswatini present the most significant challenges for those exploring the region. Steer clear of nighttime road travel to or from Eswatini, as there have been reports of car hijackings along key routes from South Africa and Mozambique. Drivers experiencing a breakdown or needing to change a tyre should exercise caution towards anyone offering assistance. Likewise, exercise caution when considering stopping to assist anyone on the road, as hijackers have been known to employ this tactic to ensnare unsuspecting individuals. Make it a point to park in areas that are brightly illuminated throughout the town.

Overall, the essential principles for safe travel remain consistent in Eswatini as they do in other destinations – stay vigilant, steer clear of risky situations, and blend in rather than standing out as a tourist.

Adventurous LGBTQI+ Explorers
In Eswatini, the legal framework does not offer safeguards against discrimination related to sexual orientation or gender identity. Same-sex sexual relationships often face societal disapproval, and public displays of affection are typically met with disfavor.

Be sure to consult your government’s most recent travel advice before embarking on your journey.

What Is The Ideal Time To Explore Eswatini?

Eswatini is a destination that offers excitement throughout the entire year. If your primary goal for exploring the country is to encounter wildlife, the ideal time to go is during the dry winter months from May to September, when the foliage is sparse and animals congregate at waterholes. Winter mornings and evenings around June/July can be quite brisk, with temperatures dipping to a chilly 5°C. During the winter, daytime temperatures soar to about 20°C.

The summer season (October to April) brings warmth and moisture, transforming the landscapes into vibrant, lush expanses teeming with a rich variety of birdlife.

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary photo by Guilherme Jofili
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Image: Guilherme Jofili)

Must-See Highlights
Lobamba
Nestled in the stunning Ezulwini valley, Lobamba serves as the vibrant heart of Eswatini’s monarchy. Lobamba Royal Village features the Royal Kraal, the Parliament building, and various other government structures.

The quaint National Museum in Lobamba showcases captivating exhibits that delve into the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning nature of Eswatini. The exhibits showcase traditional attire, complete with insights into the meaning behind each garment, alongside a selection of displays featuring the local wildlife.

Hlane Royal National Park
Hlane Royal National Park boasts the largest herds of game in the country and stands out as one of the rare locations in Eswatini where visitors can encounter lions, elephants, and rhinos. The park boasts a vibrant array of birds, featuring the highest concentration of breeding white-backed vultures found anywhere on the continent. Engage in thrilling guided mountain biking, explore the rich culture of a nearby Swati village, enjoy serene bird watching walks, and embark on unforgettable overnight bush treks.

Mkhaya Game Reserve
Situated roughly a 40-minute drive south of Hlane Royal National Park, Mkhaya Game Reserve was created to safeguard endangered species, such as white and black rhinos. The park is home to buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, and a variety of birds.

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary stands out as one of Eswatini’s pioneering conservation areas and is renowned as its most beloved game reserve. Ted and Elizabeth Reilly transformed their farm into an exhilarating game reserve. The non-profit wildlife sanctuary has expanded to an impressive 4,560 hectares of untamed wilderness, nestled amidst the majestic Nyonyane Mountains, and is a vibrant habitat for over 400 species of birds and a variety of animals.

Malolotja Nature Reserve
Situated in the northwest, Malolotja Nature Reserve stands as the largest safeguarded region in the nation. The Malolotja River winds its way through the nature reserve, creating a stunning array of waterfalls, highlighted by the majestic Malolotja Falls, the tallest cascades in the country. Habitats span from vibrant wetlands and expansive grasslands to lush, dense riverine forests. During the spring and summer months, vibrant wildflowers bring life to the stunning scenery.

Mantenga Nature Reserve
Home to Mantenga Cultural Village, visitors can embark on guided tours to discover the rich tapestry of Swati culture and customs. Guests can engage in exciting activities like weaving mountain grass and grinding grains, while enjoying captivating performances of traditional song and dance. The reserve is a haven for wildlife, showcasing an array of fascinating creatures including baboons, vervet monkeys, bush babies, porcupines, rock hyraxes, servals, leopards, and numerous species of antelope, alongside a rich variety of birds. Adventurers can traverse the reserve by foot, in their own vehicles, or on mountain bike.

Mantenga Falls, the most renowned waterfalls in Eswatini, boasts the highest volume of water and is nestled within the Mantenga Nature Reserve.

Mlawula Nature Reserve
The scenery here varies from arid savannahs to lush green valleys and thick riverine forests, with majestic mountains lining the Mozambique border. The diverse ecological zones create a rich tapestry of wildlife, featuring 60 species of both small and large animals like wildebeest, kudu, impala, and tortoises. Additionally, there are 350 species of birds, numerous insects, and a remarkable variety of plants.

Mbuluzi Game Reserve
Mbuluzi Game Reserve is situated alongside the vibrant Mlawula river, teeming with crocodiles. Self-guided wildlife safaris present an exciting array of animals to encounter. Bird watching offers an exhilarating experience with over 300 species to discover, including the stunning Narina trogon.

Umhlanga Reed Dance Celebration
Umhlanga is Eswatini’s most renowned festival, celebrated during the final week of August or the first week of September.

Incwala
Incwala is a vibrant kingship ritual filled with various activities, spanning approximately three weeks during the summer solstice. Under the new moon, the representatives of the Bemanti people converge, carrying water from the main rivers, while young men skillfully construct a royal kraal at Lobamba. The king joyfully savors the first fruits of the harvest, accompanied by lively song and dance.