Eswatini Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Eswatini: Tips on Driving, Safety, and Culture

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Top 10 Most Searched Questions About Eswatini

The capital of Eswatini is Mbabane, a hub for government activities, though Lobamba is the royal and legislative capital.

Many nationalities, including US, EU, and Canadian citizens, can visit Eswatini visa-free for up to 30 days. Check with the Eswatini Government for specific requirements.

Eswatini uses the Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). The Rand is also widely accepted.

Eswatini is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft can occur in urban areas like Mbabane—stay vigilant.

The official languages are English and siSwati. English is widely used in business and tourism.

Eswatini is known for its cultural festivals like the Umhlanga Reed Dance, wildlife reserves like Hlane Royal National Park, and traditional crafts.

The dry season (May to September) is ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, with cooler temperatures.

Eswatini is relatively affordable compared to other Southern African countries. Budget accommodations and local eateries help keep costs down.

Tap water in urban areas like Mbabane is generally safe, but it’s recommended to drink bottled water in rural areas.

Top spots include Hlane Royal National Park, the Mantenga Cultural Village, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Ezulwini Valley.

Eswatini, a small landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. The capital, Mbabane, serves as the administrative hub, while Lobamba is the royal heart. Highlights include the Umhlanga Reed Dance festival, Hlane Royal National Park for wildlife, and the scenic Ezulwini Valley.

Visa & Passport for Eswatini: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay with at least two blank pages for stamps.
  • Visa Requirements: US, EU, and Canadian citizens can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Other nationalities should check with the Eswatini Government.
  • Health Entry Rules: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from an endemic area. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for rural areas.

Driving in Eswatini: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: EU and US licenses are valid for 90 days. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-English licenses.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the left. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
  • Road Conditions: Main roads like the MR3 are paved but narrow. Rural roads may be unpaved—use a 4x4 vehicle for areas like Hlane Royal National Park.
  • Parking: Parking is generally easy in Mbabane and Manzini. Avoid leaving valuables in your car, especially in tourist areas.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is limited—ensure your rental car has emergency contacts.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit the Eswatini Tourism Authority.

Eswatini Currency: Using the Lilangeni for Your Trip

  • Lilangeni: Eswatini uses the Lilangeni (SZL), pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Coins come in 10, 20, 50 cents, and 1, 2, 5 Lilangeni; banknotes are 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Lilangeni.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or ATMs in Mbabane—avoid airport exchanges due to high fees. The South African Rand is widely accepted.
  • Payment Methods: Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in cities like Mbabane and Manzini. Cash is preferred in rural areas and markets like the Ezulwini Craft Market.
  • ATMs: ATMs are available in Mbabane and Manzini but scarce in rural areas like Mlilwane—withdraw cash in advance.

Eswatini Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public alcohol consumption is restricted in some areas—check local regulations.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect the monarchy—avoid negative comments about the king. Dress modestly during cultural events like the Umhlanga Reed Dance.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography of government buildings, military sites, or royal residences is prohibited. Ask permission before photographing locals.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection should be discreet. Homosexuality is legal but not widely accepted—exercise caution.
  • Customs Rules: You can bring 2 liters of wine, 1 liter of spirits, and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $10,000 USD equivalent upon entry or exit.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 999 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the nearest police station. Tourist offices in Mbabane can assist with minor issues.

Travel Safety in Eswatini: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in Eswatini: Eswatini is safe, but petty theft occurs in Mbabane and Manzini markets—keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Road Safety: Roads can be narrow, and livestock crossings are common—drive cautiously, especially at night. Fog in mountainous areas like the Ezulwini Valley can reduce visibility.
  • Health Risks: Malaria is a risk in rural areas like Hlane—use prophylaxis and insect repellent. HIV prevalence is high—take precautions.
  • Natural Hazards: Flash floods can occur during the rainy season (November to March)—avoid low-lying areas. Wildlife encounters in parks like Mlilwane require caution—follow ranger guidance.
  • Medical Facilities: Healthcare is limited. Mbabane has clinics like Mbabane Government Hospital, but serious cases may require evacuation to South Africa—travel insurance is essential.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 999 for emergencies. Pharmacies in Mbabane and Manzini stock basic medications—carry essentials for rural trips.
  • Public Transport Safety: Minibuses (kombis) are common but can be overcrowded—opt for private taxis in cities for safety.

Flights to Eswatini: Travel Options

King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) in Sikhuphe is Eswatini’s main airport, with flights connecting via Johannesburg, South Africa. Limited international routes mean most travelers fly into Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo) and drive across the border.