Things To Do
in Eswatini
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small, landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, the country offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. With a diverse range of wildlife and natural reserves, Eswatini is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
The warm hospitality of the Swazi people adds to the charm of this vibrant nation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mantenga Cultural Village, where you can experience traditional Swazi culture and dance.
Explore the Ngwenya Glass Factory to see local artisans at work and shop for unique glass products.
Dine at the popular Ezulwini Valley, where you can enjoy local dishes and live music.
Hike in the Malolotja Nature Reserve, known for its breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Lobamba to learn about indigenous plants and their uses.
Relax at a local pub in Mbabane, tasting local beers and mingling with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at Restaurant | $10-$15 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $30-$100 |
| 🚕Taxi Ride | $5-$10 |
| 🥤Local Beer | $2-$4 |
| 🛍️Souvenir | $5-$20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and heritage.
- Stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Limited nightlife options.
- Public transport can be unreliable.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities.
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Ngiyafuna" - I want
- "Hamba kahle" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Eswatini
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, perfect for landscape photography.
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing nature's beauty.
A unique location where you can photograph artisans at work and stunning glass artworks.
Food in Eswatini
Eswatini Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional porridge made from maize, often served with meat and vegetables.
Must-Try!
A starchy side dish similar to polenta, commonly paired with stews.
A fermented maize drink that's refreshing and slightly sour.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food stalls.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this market offers a variety of local dishes and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is preferred, and it's polite to greet everyone in the group.
Especially in rural areas, dress conservatively to respect local customs.
Show respect to elders by using formal titles and addressing them appropriately.
Safety
Tipping in Eswatini
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and for guides.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and frequent rain; it's the best time for lush landscapes.
Milder temperatures and less rain; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Cooler temperatures, especially at night; ideal for hiking and exploring without the heat.
Temperatures begin to warm up, and wildflowers bloom, making it a picturesque season.
Eswatini at Night
Hiking in Eswatini
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This trail leads to the top of one of the largest exposed granite domes in the world, offering breathtaking views.
A scenic hiking route through the park, where you can spot wildlife, including elephants and rhinos.
Airports
How to reach Eswatini by plane.
Located about 30 km from Mbabane, this airport serves domestic and international flights, providing access to the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Eswatini, known for their rich cultural traditions and customs.
A small but notable community of expatriates, primarily from South Africa and other African nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Eswatini, with many local teams and a strong following.
Rugby is also widely played and watched, with various clubs and national competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, but it's best to confirm with the chef.
Some traditional dishes are gluten-free, but be aware of cross-contamination.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eswatini.