Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)

Despite its small size, Eswatini offers a huge variety of attractions. The country is known for its vibrant traditional culture, which is on full display during spectacular annual ceremonies like the Umhlanga (Reed Dance). The people are famously friendly and welcoming to visitors. The country is also a haven for wildlife, with several excellent and well-managed game reserves like Mkhaya and Hlane Royal National Park, which offer a great chance to see rhinos. The landscape varies from the mountainous highveld in the west to the hot, lowveld savanna in the east, providing a beautiful backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, and other adventures.

With its excellent arts and crafts, stunning scenery, and rich culture, Eswatini is a wonderful and accessible destination that is easily incorporated into a larger Southern Africa itinerary.

Reasons to Visit

• Rich and Living Culture: Experience vibrant Swazi culture and witness spectacular traditional ceremonies like the Umhlanga.
• Excellent Rhino Viewing: Visit reserves like Mkhaya for some of the best opportunities in Africa to see both black and white rhinos up close.
• Beautiful Scenery: Discover a "big in a small package" country with a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, and savanna.
• Friendly and Safe: Enjoy a welcoming and safe travel destination that is easy to navigate.

Things to Avoid

• Political Protests: While generally peaceful, there have been pro-democracy protests. It is wise to avoid any political gatherings.
• Photographing the Monarchy: Do not photograph the King's palaces or royal convoys without permission.
• Walking Alone at Night: Exercise standard safety precautions in towns after dark.
• Underestimating Distances on Winding Roads: While the country is small, the roads can be mountainous and slow.

Local Transportation Tips

Renting a car is the best and easiest way to explore Eswatini, and the main roads are generally in good condition. Public transport consists of 'kombis' (minivans), which are cheap but can be crowded and run on a loose schedule. Most visitors enter the country as part of a self-drive trip from South Africa.

Travel Etiquette

• Respect for the Monarchy: The King is a highly respected figure. Always speak of the monarchy with respect.
• Greetings: A friendly greeting is customary. The people are known for their warmth and friendliness.
• Asking for Photos: Always ask for permission before taking a picture of someone.
• Modest Dress: When visiting rural communities or cultural sites, it is respectful to dress modestly.

Did You Know?

In 2018, King Mswati III officially changed the name of the country from Swaziland to Eswatini, meaning "Land of the Swazis," to mark the 50th anniversary of its independence.

Cool Eswatini Stats

• Last Absolute Monarchy: Eswatini is the last remaining absolute monarchy in Africa.
• A Rhino Success Story: The country's conservation efforts have been very successful, and its Mkhaya Game Reserve is a world-renowned breeding center for the endangered black rhino.
• Two Capitals: Eswatini has two capitals: Mbabane is the administrative capital, and Lobamba is the legislative and traditional royal capital.

Recommended Age Group

Eswatini is an excellent destination for all age groups, offering a safe, accessible, and diverse African experience.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The good infrastructure and short driving distances make it manageable.
• Kids (3-12 years): Highly Recommended. The wildlife reserves are a huge hit with children, and the cultural experiences are very engaging.
• Teens (13-19 years): Highly Recommended. The mix of wildlife, adventure activities like hiking, and unique culture is perfect.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. Eswatini offers a wonderful and compact mix of culture, wildlife, and scenery.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. For active seniors, it is a very easy and safe country to travel in, with many accessible lodges and attractions.

Accessibility Level: Low

• While safer and easier to travel than many African nations, it lacks specific accessibility infrastructure.
• Some of the main game lodges and hotels in the tourist hubs have accessible rooms.
• However, public transport is not accessible, and many of the craft markets and cultural villages have uneven terrain.
• A self-drive trip allows for the most flexibility.