The Kingdom of eSwatini is a little country with a big heart. Small, yet enchanting, eSwatini is nestled within the heart of southern Africa and has big aspirations. Formerly known as Swaziland, eSwatini offers captivating landscapes, vibrant cultural traditions, and warm-hearted hospitality. This landlocked kingdom boasts an array of experiences that will leave travelers charmed, and yearning for more.
Easily accessible by plane from Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Harare, eSwatini has a lot to offer, while its small size makes it easy to navigate, it is a great self-drive destination. Safari highlights include exploring Mlilwane National Park on foot, bike, or horse, getting up close with rhinos at Hlane Royal National Park or the more exclusive Mhkaya Game Reserve, hiking in Malalotja, a luxury stay at Mbuluzi Game Reserve, and stopping off at Royal Jozini National Park. While not a typical Big 5 safari destination, eSwatini offers an accessible charm with abundant antelope and bird species as well as larger wildlife like elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and hippopotamus.
Gentle and warm-hearted, the people of eSwatini are the real Swazi Gold. The kingdom boasts all sorts of cultural activities from walking the streets of Manzini and Mbabane, to homestays, and cultural villages, or attending some of the delightful festivals which include the famous Reed Dance, as well as the extremely hip and cool Bush-Fire Festival.
eSwatini is also known for its vibrant cultural festivals, which showcase the kingdom's deep-rooted traditions and customs. The most renowned festival is the Umhlanga Reed Dance, a captivating symbolic celebration of Swati tradition. Young Swazi women gather from across the country to dance and present reeds to the Queen Mother, symbolizing their loyalty to the monarchy. It is a remarkable spectacle and a true testament to the Swati cultural identity.
The Kingdom of eSwatini combines stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and warm hospitality. Whether you are seeking wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, or a relaxed and peaceful getaway, this tiny nation has something for everyone.
- Hlane Royal National Park - the largest game reserve in eSwatini with excellent rhino encounters and lush Lowveld bush.
- Mkhaya Game Reserve – exclusivity and luxury, Mkhaya is one of the best safari destinations to see black and white rhinos
- Mbuluzi Game Reserve - private reserve with hiking and mountain bike trails, abundant game, and birdwatching at the foot of the Lubombo Mountains
- Malolotja Nature Reserve - a wild hiking reserve with a canopy tour, waterfalls, birdwatching, and game (zebra and antelopes)
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - the oldest game reserve in eSwatini, hosting wildlife, birds, Nyonyane Mountain, and diverse activities
- The Ezulweni Valley – this picturesque valley is a must-visit with charming boutique hotels, restaurants, and markets to visit.
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The Kingdom of eSwatini, compared to its southern African neighbors, is tiny. It would be possible to drive to all of eSwatini’s safari destinations in a single day, though this would ruin the charm of this laid-back and easy-going safari destination. Big Game Parks are doing a great job managing a few of eSwatini’s safari destinations including Hlane Royal National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, KaMasholo Bushveld Safaris, and Mkhaya Game Reserve. Add to this Royal Jozini, Malalotja, and Mbuluzi, and eSwatini has some great safari destinations.
Hlane Royal National Park is the former hunting ground of eSwatini’s monarchy. Located just a half-hour drive from King Mswati III International Airport, this 22 000 ha park is eSwatini’s biggest conservation area and includes lions, elephants, and rhinos.
The heart of Hlane Royal is the Ndlovu Camp, which boasts affordable safari accommodation in the form of chalets and campsites, as well as a restaurant that overlooks a watering hole where you can often watch rhino, hippos, and elephants as you munch your lunch. Ndlovu camp was in days past, the place of residence for the Swati King during the traditional Butimba, or Royal Hunt.
Today, Hlane Royal National Park is all about conservation and has an enviable anti-poaching record. The park is managed specifically to protect its once-decimated wildlife, and for this reason, there are self-drive and limited access areas. Hlane highlights include guided game drives to the lion section of the park, as well as the rhino camp which can take visitors unusually close to these endangered megaherbivores. Leopards and spotted hyenas are more difficult to spot, with the hyenas' distinct calls blending with the roars of the lions at night. Other large mammals in the area include giraffes, zebras, hippos, and abundant antelope species, like impalas, kudus, wildebeests, and waterbucks. Hlane Royal National Park is also home to over 300 species of birds, with a notable attraction being the large breeding colony of white-backed vultures and the presence of maribou storks.
Hlane Royal National Park is eSwatini’s top safari destination for a number of reasons. Excellent guides, friendly staff, clean and budget-friendly facilities, and the chance to get close to endangered wildlife, all combine to make this an essential eSwatini safari stop. Add to this the close proximity to the Lubombo Conservancy, Shewula Nature Reserve, Mbuluzi Reserve, and Mlawula Nature Reserve, with plans afoot to join some of these conservation areas, and this northeastern corner of eSwatini has a very exciting future.
For a small country, the Kingdom of eSwatini has a collection of excellent wildlife reserves and game parks. The charm of many of these destinations comes with the freedom to explore on foot, mountain biking, hiking trails, guided safari walks, and game drives. Safari destinations in eSwatini include the Big Game Parks collection, Mbuluzi, Malolotja, Royal Jozini, and Phophonyane Falls.
The Kingdom of eSwatini is home to Big Game Parks, founded by conservation pioneer Ted Reilly in the 1960s. More than 50 years later, Big Game Parks is integral to the machinations of conservation in eSwatini. Breeding programs have not only restocked eSwatini’s game reserves, but also exported wildebeest to Sabi Sands, and Nyala to KZN. The Big Game Parks stable, in addition to Hlane Royal National Park, includes Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, KaMasholo National Park, and Mkhaya Private Game Reserve.
Located in eSwatini’s Valley of Heaven, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary offers an array of family-friendly activities set against mountains and forests. Found between Mbabane and Manzini City, Mlilwane’s 4560 ha is home to an array of antelope species, birds, and smaller mammals. Mlilwane is not a Big 5 safari destination, allowing the reserve to focus on family activities, offering the chance to explore by foot, mountain bike, or on guided walks or drives. Horse rides are popular and trails range from a couple of hours to overnight camping trips to Nyonyane Mountain, known as Execution Rock. Cultural experiences include visits to Umphakatsi and Esitjeni Villages. The dams, grasslands, forests, and mountains provide habitat for blesbok, kudu, blue wildebeest, impala, nyala, reebok, warthog, duiker, crocodile, and a variety of smaller animals like mongoose, aardvark, bushbabies, genet, civet, porcupine, honey badger, and elusive-rarely seen leopard.
KaMsholo boasts a nature-rich reserve spanning 700 hectares. The dominant presence of Umbrella Trees (Acacia tortillis) sets the backdrop for a surprising array of species, including giraffes, reedbucks, waterbucks, and ostriches. Nestled at the base of the Lebombo Mountains, it is an ideal destination for families, small groups, and nature enthusiasts, and with over 300 recorded species, birdwatchers. Budget-conscious travelers can stay at the Bushveld Backpackers which offer accommodation in traditional beehive huts. While in the past, KaMsholo has been known as a pitstop for travelers entering or leaving Eswatini through Laviumisa Border, beyond its roadside amenities, KaMsholo has a lot to offer. Activities at KaMosholo include guided walking safaris, self-drive or guided safari drives, as well as horse and pony rides that can include Nguni Trails, which provide insight into Africa’s much loved Nguni Cattle.
Mkhaya Game Reserve, situated between Manzini and Big Bend, is Eswatini's most exclusive safari retreat. The reserve, initially established to protect indigenous Nguni cattle, has expanded to become a sanctuary for endangered species, and a habitat for various large mammals. At Mkhaya, guests can expect to see white and black rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and warthogs. The reserve is home to eSwatini’s only buffalo population, as well as an array of antelope including rare sable antelope, Livingston’s eland, roan antelope, and tsessebe. The reserve is accessible through reservations only, and guests are collected before being transferred to the park headquarters. Walking safaris, luxury bush trails, and game drives are included in packages. At Mkhaya, the connection with nature transcends mere observation, making it a truly captivating adventure.
eSwatini has a number of reserves scattered throughout the country that all offer something unique. Below is a list of a few notable safari destinations.
Malolotja Nature Reserve encompasses a highland wilderness of rolling hills and forested river gorges. Its stunning natural landscapes include the impressive 95m Malolotja Falls, and the reserve's ancient rocks date back over 3.5 billion years. Just a short drive from Mbabane or Piggs Peak, visitors can choose from various accommodation options, including a campsite, self-catering log cabins, or traditional beehive chalets at the nearby Hawane Resort. Wildlife includes a range of unique species, such as blesbok, eland, zebra, black wildebeest, grey rhebok, and oribi. Leopards, servals, aardwolves, and baboons also roam the reserve. Birders will delight in sightings of the endangered blue swallow, bald ibis, and ground woodpeckers. Malolotja offers exceptional hiking opportunities along its extensive 200km trail network and caters to both leisurely walks and multi-day wilderness treks. The Malolotja Canopy Tour provides an adrenaline-filled experience with zip-lining between wooden platforms high above the forest canopy and Silotshwane Gorge.
Set within 3000 ha of acacia, leadwood, riverine, and tambooti woodland, Mbuluzi Game Reserve offers exceptional birding, abundant nyala and impala, as well as kudu, wildebeest, waterbuck, zebra, bushbuck, duiker, crocodile, jackal, and giraffe. The absence of the Big 5 means that Mbuluzi can be enjoyed on foot through a network of interlinked hiking tracks, or by mountain bike on jeep tracks and trails. The reserve offers budget camping as well as a number of unique luxury family lodges strung along the banks of the Mlawula River.
Phophonyane Nature Reserve, a private reserve located 10km north of Piggs Peak, offers a captivating natural retreat nestled in a forested hillside above the picturesque Phophonyane River. The lodge blends seamlessly with the lush subtropical vegetation and has a beguiling natural ambiance. Accommodation ranges from rustic cottages to safari tents and upgraded beehive huts. The 600-ha forest reserve boasts tranquil trails that crisscross waterways to reach the 80m high Phophonyane Falls, diverse wildlife, and rich birdlife including the illusive narina trogon. Guided walks, hikes along the Gobolondo mountain ridge, and guided drives to local attractions are available. Day visitors can also savor the restaurant, trails, and natural rock swimming pool.
Royal Jozini is a private game reserve in Eswatini's lowveld, nestled at the base of the Lubombo Mountains. Royal Jozini boasts diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, including elephants, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and more. Set on the shores of Lake Jozini, the reserve attracts abundant birdlife, and offers boating and sport fishing opportunities. Royal Jozini’s lodges range from rustic to luxurious, accommodating various group sizes, while a tented camp caters to birding groups and fishermen.
Mbabane, the capital of eSwatini, is located amidst the scenic Dlangeni Hills. With its elevated position and temperate climate, it offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Mbabane gained city status in 1992 and boasts a rich history dating back to the 1750s. It flourished during colonial times, becoming the British colonial capital in 1903. Today, Mbabane combines modern amenities with a relaxed ambiance. The vibrant heart of the town is centered around the Swazi Plaza and Mbabane Mall, housing banks, shops, and tourist facilities. Accommodation options are located in the surrounding residential areas, while diverse dining choices cater to various tastes. Mbabane is a captivating blend of tradition and progress, and despite its modernization, Mbabane retains a relaxed, and open atmosphere.
Manzini, the commercial and transportation heart of Eswatini, emerged from the ruins of the British colonial headquarters and has become eSwatini’s biggest city. Just 30 minutes from Mbabane, and King Mswati III International Airport, it serves as the gateway to eSwatini. With a compact center, visitors can explore attractions like the bustling Bhunu Mall, the Catholic cathedral, and the vibrant Manzini Market. Accommodation options cater more to business travelers, while a range of eateries from fast-food outlets to upscale restaurants are available. The lively Manzini Market offers an authentic experience, with a variety of goods on display.
The national parks of eSwatini provide wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. Hlane and Mkhaya parks feature large drive-through enclosures, ensuring easy sightings of animals. The dry winter months, from May to September, are traditionally considered optimal for wildlife viewing, although this factor may be less significant in eSwatini itself. However, if you are visiting parks in South Africa, it's worth planning your trip for the winter months.
eSwatini is a year-round safari destination and the climate ranges from tropical to temperate. The Kingdom experiences opposite seasons compared to Europe and North America, with rain primarily falling during the summer months from late October to March, often presenting as afternoon tropical thundershowers. The dry winter season lasts from mid-April to mid-October and offers sunny days with average temperatures of 20°C. Temperature variations depend on the altitude, and extra layers are recommended for cool nights.
The type of safari that you choose to take will depend on your budget, your comfort with large groups and strangers, and the duration of your travels. For an in-depth look at eSwatini’s costs, you can read our blog post How Much Does an eSwatini Safari Cost?
Self-drives are great as you can move at your own pace, and visit some of the more out-of-the-way destinations. Large group overland tours are often the most cost-effective as they spread the cost between the 20-odd people with whom you will share your adventure, meaning that your budget can stretch a lot further. Whether you choose to camp or stay in luxury lodges will also make a big difference.
It goes without saying that private tours, smaller more intimate group tours, like couples or small family or friend groups, can be more expensive. That said, African Budget Safaris specializes in private bespoke safaris that can be surprisingly affordable.
African Budget Safari offers 19 tours that include eSwatini, with prices ranging from US$606 to US$ 4202 per person. Most arrive in Johannesburg (South Africa), and drive the Panorama Route to the Kruger National Park before passing through eSwatini, returning to Johannesburg, or going on to KwaZulu-Natal. Others include Lesotho or Mozambique and can wander as far afield as Cape Town. You can browse Africa Budget Safaris eSwatini tours here.
Most people add eSwatini to a South African safari itinerary. As such, you would fly into either Johannesburg or Durban and drive to eSwatini after visiting the Kruger National Park or Isimangaliso National Park in KwaZulu-Natal. With no fewer than 13 border crossings to enter eSwatini, there are countless routes to choose from for a self-drive adventure. Don’t forget that there is a R100 road tax payable at the border which is best paid in cash to keep border time to a minimum.
Alternatively, you can now get regular flights to King Mswati III international airport with the launch of eSwatini Air. The Kingdom of Eswatini has become a lot more accessible, making it an easier fly-in destination. Eswatini Air now runs flights daily from Johannesburg, four flights a week from Harare, daily flights to and from Durban, and 3 flights a week from Cape Town. These new routes have the potential to make eSwatini an accessible add-on to any southern African safari adventure.
No matter how you choose to enter eSwatini, you will need a valid passport, and the relevant supporting documentation.
When visiting the Kingdom of eSwatini, there are a number of travel options available from walking to buses, kombis, and self-drive tours. The best way to explore eSwatini for a short stay is by self-drive, or alternatively booking a safari itinerary through a company like African Budget Safaris.
With its small size, attractions are easily accessible from any central location. Pre-booking a car rental online is recommended, and driving is on the left side of the road. Main town roads are well-maintained, but remote areas may have gravel and uneven surfaces. Exercise caution while driving, as traffic accidents are common, especially when navigating a combination of potholes, goats, cattle, and people. If possible, avoid driving at night as cattle often lie on the road and are difficult to spot. Filling stations are available in main towns, at borders, and at key road junctions, where pump attendants offer assistance.
Once you have arrived at your safari destination of choice, most parks offer 4x4 guided safaris, that allow you to relax and take in the nature on offer, or you can opt for self-drive options.
eSwatini is a small country making it possible to fit in multiple destinations in a single trip. I’ve used Mbabane, and King Mswati III International Airport as the major points of reference, as well as destinations in the north (Malolotja), and south (KaMasholo) to give you an idea of the size. None of these times include border crossings.
The drive from KM III will take you about 40 minutes on a good road. Car hire is available to collect from the airport.
The 87 km road to Mbabane is well maintained, making it an easy hour's drive.
In just over 30 minutes you can be at eSwatini’s largest game reserve, the Royal Hlane National Park.
Traveling roughly north, it will take about 1.5 hours to drive the 113 km to Malolotja Nature Reserve.
Heading south from the airport, it will take you an hour and 15 minutes to reach KaMasholo Bushveld Safaris. Lavumisa border crossing is 40 km away, and another 30-minute drive to South Africa.
Almost directly east of Johannesburg lies eSwatini and Mbabane. The 361 km will take about 5 hours to drive. To fly from Johannesburg to Mswati III International will take around 45 minutes.
From Malelane Gate at Kruger National Park to Mbabane is about a 2.5-hour drive that covers around 150 km.
To drive from Cape Town to Mbabane will take an epic 19 hours, while flights, departing 3 times a week, will take only about 2,5 hours.
Driving to Mbabane from Durban will take approximately 7 hours, and excludes time spent at the border post. Flying direct to Mswati III International will take only an hour.
Mbabane to Maputo in Mozambique should take around 4 hours to drive.
When traveling to eSwatini, think cool and comfortable. On the low veld, eSwatini is warm and balmy, and you may even have occasion to go for a dip while you are there. That said, at night, it can be cool, especially when traveling up to the highlands around Malolotja and Piggs Peak. It is a good idea to have a light jacket or a sweater on hand.
Driving distances in eSwatini are short, but you still want to be comfortable. You might be driving, jumping out to take pictures, visiting a cultural village, and going on a safari all in one day. Good comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and a long-sleeved, collared shirt in natural hues should have you covered.
Generally speaking, eSwatini is informal, but there are some high-end restaurants, hotels, and casinos where you might want to dress a little more formally. For a final word, dress in layers and pack clothes that can double as casual-sensible or smart-casual and you should be winning.
eSwatini is very much a year-round destination with lots to offer across all seasons. The winter months are better for game viewing, and it can get chilly at night in the highlands, but the key to planning your eSwatini safari rests in planning around the kingdom's festivals.
eSwatini is hot, around 32°C / 90°F, and sometimes humid, and experiences torrential downpours in the afternoons. The landscape is dramatic, and the scenery is particularly beautiful.
Another hot month with afternoon thundershowers. The Marula Festival kicks off with a harvest celebration attended by the monarchy. Traditionally, marula fruit is fermented to make a potent drink called Buganu. Once the king and queen have sampled the first brew, the festivities commence.
In March, rainfall decreases, and the weather begins to cool. This is a good time of year to visit the highlands of Malolotja.
April is another cool month with clear skies. Daytime temperatures average around 29°C / 84°F, and it's colder at night, but still pleasant with temperatures around 17°C / 63°F. The humidity drops at this time of year.
The end of summer brings cool temperatures especially in the mornings and evenings, while the days are warm and sunny. The MTNBushfire Festival is fast becoming one of southern Africa’s best-performing arts festivals and eSwatini gets booked out towards the end of May as those in the know travel to the kingdom from far and wide to revel at this family festival.
June is the dry winter season. This is a better time for game viewing but morning temperatures do get cold at around 10°C / 50°F, so some warmer clothes are advisable. The afternoons are clear and a warm 25°C / 77°F.
July has much the same pattern as June. Cold mornings followed by mild afternoons. This is safari season in southern Africa. It is also an excellent time for hiking in Malolotja, or taking part in the Sibebe Survivor - trekking up and down the world’s Largest Granite dome – Sibebe Rock.
The cool August month marks eSwatini’s biggest cultural festival. The Umhlanga Reed Dance takes place at the grounds of Ludzidzini. Tens of thousands of brightly adorned girls, and warriors dance for the King and Queen in this age-old spectacle. The festival lasts for 5 days and makes an excellent cultural counterpoint to any eSwatini safari adventure.
At the tail end of winter, temperatures begin to rise. The mornings average around 15°C / 59°F, while the afternoons are a pleasant 28°C / 82°F. This is an excellent time for guided game walks and drives as the bush is still low. Expect the first rains.
As the mercury rises, there is more chance of rain. Luckily the rains usually fall as afternoon thundershowers. Temperatures range from 18°C / 64°F in the morning to 30°C / 86°F in the afternoon.
A similar month to October, November is warmer and you can expect afternoon thundershowers.
December and January are eSwatini’s wettest months. The weather is hot, around 32°C / 90°F, and sometimes humid. Visitors should expect torrential downpours in the afternoons. December is the month of the Incwala Festival, eSwatini’s most important festival, making December a colorful time to visit.
| eSwatini & the King |
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| eSwatini is the last absolute monarchy in Africa. When traveling in eSwatini, many conversations begin with “The King…”. Anything containing the word ‘royal’ is affiliated with, funded by, or owned by the monarchy. The King surprised the kingdom in 2018 by changing the name from Swaziland to eSwatini. In addition to this, it was the King who had the impressive US$ 150 million King Mswati III International Airport built, which has been operating since 2014, and conveniently houses the Airbus A340-300 that he bought himself for his 50th birthday. |
eSwatini is a landlocked independent kingdom in southern Africa. It is bordered by the Republic of South Africa to the north, south, and west, with the Provinces of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal forming its boundaries. To the east, it shares a 112 km / 70-mile border with Mozambique and is about 64 km / 40 miles inland from the Indian Ocean. The Kingdom of eSwatini is approximately 17,353 km² / 6700 mi², making it smaller than the Kruger National Park. It extends about 193 km / 120 miles from north to south and around 144 km / 90 miles from east to west.
Running from west to east, eSwatini’s geography can be divided into distinct regions. The highveld, with an average elevation of 1200 m / 4000 feet, is characterized by mountainous terrain. Mbabane is situated in the highveld, which experiences a humid, near-temperate climate, with variable daytime weather and occasional frost and snow.
The Middleveld and the Lubombo Plateau, located in the central and extreme eastern sections, are subtropical and comparatively drier. Manzini City is located in the Middleveld and has an average altitude of 760 m / 2500 feet. The Lubombo Plateau, with an average elevation of 550m / 1800 feet, is also part of this region. Both areas are relatively warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from 13°C / 57ºF to 26°C / 78ºF.
The Lowveld has a subtropical climate and is the driest region in eSwatini. Big Bend, the largest town in the Lowveld, experiences temperatures ranging from 14°C / 58ºF to 28°C / 84ºF. The altitude in this region ranges between 150m / 500 feet to 300 m / 1,000 feet, making it an excellent climate for sugar plantations.
For a small country, eSwatini's geography features diverse elevations and climates. The highveld offers a cooler and more humid environment, while the Middleveld and Lubombo Plateau showcase subtropical conditions and the Lowveld is characterized by its drier subtropical climate.
The earliest evidence of human habitation in the area now known as eSwatini dates back thousands of years. San hunter-gatherer communities were among the first people to inhabit the region, living off the land and leaving behind a legacy of rock art. Later, Bantu-speaking tribes migrated into the area, including the Nguni people, who would eventually form the Swati ethnic group.
By the mid-18th century, the Swati people had established themselves as the dominant group in the region. Under the leadership of King Ngwane III, the Swati kingdom expanded its territory and consolidated its power. The kingdom's growth continued under subsequent rulers, with King Sobhuza I establishing a centralized monarchy in the early 19th century.
The late 19th century brought significant changes to the region with the arrival of European colonizers. Swaziland became a British protectorate in 1902, following the signing of several treaties between the Swazi king and the British authorities. During the colonial era, the British administration introduced Western education, Christianity, and European-style governance systems. This period also saw the growth of commercial agriculture, with the establishment of large-scale sugar plantations.
| King Sobhuza I |
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| Sobhuza I, also known as Somhlolo or the Father of Mysteries, earned his name by leaving a profound legacy that greatly impacted the Swazi people's way of life and philosophy. He experienced a prophetic vision where he witnessed the arrival of fair-skinned individuals with hair resembling cattle tails. Accompanying them were two distinct offerings: a book and a circular piece of metal. Sobhuza chooses to accept the book while rejecting the coin. The scroll symbolized the Christian Bible, and represented spiritual enlightenment and knowledge, while the coin came with the danger of the corrupting forces of greed. Sobhuza saw this as a threat to the Swazi way of life and the harmony within their society, and so embraced the scroll, thus preserving the cultural values and traditions of his people. |
In the mid-20th century, the push for independence swept across Africa, and eSwatini was no exception. In 1963, Britain granted Swaziland internal self-government, which led to the establishment of a Legislative Council. However, the constitution was suspended by King Sobhuza II in 1973, and he ruled by decree until his death in 1982. A regency followed, and in 1986, Sobhuza II's son, Mswati III, ascended to the throne as the monarch of Swaziland.
In recent years, eSwatini has made progress in shaping its political landscape. The country underwent constitutional reforms, and in 2005, a new constitution was introduced. However, political parties have limited participation in the country's governance, and the ruling monarchy continues to hold significant power. To mark 50 years of independence, King Mswati III changed the kingdom’s name from Swaziland to eSwatini.
eSwatini's economy has undergone notable transformations throughout its history. Traditionally, the Swazi people relied on subsistence agriculture, with maize being a staple crop. In the colonial era, commercial agriculture, particularly sugar production, gained prominence. Large-scale sugar plantations, along with timber and citrus farming, became key contributors to the economy. Today, eSwatini is actively pursuing tourism to boost its economy.
Challenges faced by eSwatini today include population growth, outdated agricultural practices, growing unemployment, income inequality, and a high prevalence of HIV infections.
To enter eSwatini a valid passport with a minimum validity of three months is required. For most Commonwealth countries, the USA, Japan, many European Union countries, and certain other nations, tourist visits do not require a visa. Both tourist and business travelers can stay in eSwatini for up to 30 days initially with a 30-day extension possible through the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Always check your country’s VISA requirements before you book your trip as this is a changing landscape.
Yes. Eswatini is generally considered to be a safe travel destination with a relatively low crime rate compared to other African countries. Staying informed and exercising caution is good practice whenever visiting a foreign country. Here are some tips to enhance your safety:
When planning a visit to Eswatini, it is advisable to ensure that your vaccinations are up to date. This includes tetanus, polio, and diphtheria, which are now administered as a combined vaccine, as well as hepatitis A.
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is only necessary if you are arriving from a country at risk of yellow fever transmission or where yellow fever is endemic, but eSwatini itself does not fall into this category.
Cholera immunization is no longer required for entry into eSwatini.
Anti-malarial medication is recommended only if traveling to the eastern regions of the country, such as the Lowveld and the Lubombo Mountains, including the reserves of the Lubombo Conservancy. However, it is worth noting that eSwatini is making significant progress toward becoming malaria-free.
It is important to be aware of the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the country and take necessary precautions.
Always wash your hands, and observe proper food hygiene to prevent gastrointestinal infections. Eating in hotels and restaurants is considered safe.
Don't forget to pack your preferred insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
The African sun can be severe. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended and it’s always a good idea to carry a bottle of water and stay well hydrated.
Your safari guides are trained, and extremely knowledgeable, and their top priority is to keep you safe in the wild. Always listen to their advice about how to behave and what to do while on safari, especially when encountering wild animals like elephants, hippos, giraffes, and lions.
Transportation safety: Many people choose to self-drive eSwatini. While the major roads are good, rural routes can be ridden with a combination of potholes, livestock, and people. Avoid driving at night as cattle often lie down on the roads and are difficult to spot. You may be pulled over by police who will try to illicit bribes in the form of drinks, food, or cash. Make sure you have all your documentation, and stay friendly and calm.
When it comes to cash and tipping in Eswatini, it's important to note that the local currency is the Swazi lilangeni (SZL). The value of the lilangeni is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR), which means that the two currencies are interchangeable at a 1:1 exchange rate. This means that both lilangeni and South African Rand are widely accepted in Eswatini.
It's advisable to carry some local currency for smaller establishments and rural areas, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments. When it comes to tipping, it is not obligatory but appreciated for good service.
A customary tip of around 10% is common in restaurants unless a service charge is already included. Tipping hotel staff, porters, and tour guides is also appreciated, and to this end, having a small amount of cash on hand in the local currency is a good idea.
The Swati people are gentle, and good-natured and do not like conflict. Always be polite and respectful, even if you are feeling frustrated.
It is customary to shake hands and offer cash or goods with the right hand.
Most Swati people will have no problem with having their pictures taken, but it is polite to ask. Most Swazis will speak and understand English, and asking presents an opportunity to engage with locals, and deepen your cultural experience.
Generally speaking, the Kingdom of eSwatini does not have the same rampant crime as South Africa. Your belongings should be safe, especially staying in game parks, lodges, hotels, and campsites.
However, it doesn’t hurt to take precautions. Always be conscious of your belongings and don't leave your baggage unattended either at the airport, train station, hotel lobby, or on the beach. Try to keep your valuables out of sight and never flash your cash.
It's always a good idea to be on your guard in big cities, especially when visiting markets where pickpockets sometimes target tourists.
While visiting a foreign country, in addition to your electronic copies of tickets and travel documents, it’s good practice to have hard copies of all your travel documents tucked away safely in your luggage. Visiting eSwatini will require traveling through South Africa, and you will therefore be subject to South Africa’s immigration laws and visa requirements.
eSwatini is tipped as becoming one of southern Africa’s top safari travel destinations. An excellent add-on to safaris that visit the Kruger National Park or the reserves of KwaZulu-Natal, eSwatini is now more accessible with direct flights from Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and Harare. Eswatini has understated charm, and its compact geography makes it a fun and exciting destination. Take a look at a few of our eSwatini safari tours to the country's top travel destinations:
Explore your eSwatini safari options today, and talk to one of our expert travel consultants who will help you to plan your dream African safari adventure.
Use the Google map to explore Kingdom of eSwatini.