Things To Do
in Swaziland
Swaziland, officially known as the Kingdom of Eswatini since 2018, is a small, landlocked monarchy in Southern Africa, renowned for its wilderness reserves and festivals showcasing traditional Swazi culture. Its diverse landscapes range from the mountains along the Mozambique border to savannas and rainforests, providing habitats for abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
The country maintains a strong cultural heritage, with the Reed Dance and Incwala being significant ceremonies that feature traditional Swazi attire, music, and dance, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe.
- "Yebo" - Yes
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Hamba kahle" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the stunning Malolotja Nature Reserve, taking in the views of waterfalls and rich biodiversity. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy mid-hike.
Visit the picturesque Maguga Dam and explore the surrounding area. You can try your hand at kayaking or simply relax at the shore.
Conclude your day with a traditional Swazi dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy authentic dishes while listening to live music.
Visit the Mantenga Cultural Village for a guided tour and performance. Immerse yourself in the Swazi traditions and dances.
Take a drive to the nearby Hlane Royal National Park. The park is home to plenty of wildlife; keep an eye out for rhinos and elephants.
Head back to your accommodation and relax by a bonfire. Share stories of your experiences and enjoy the serene night sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions that offer a unique experience for visitors.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including national parks and wildlife reserves.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who are proud of their identity.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable travel.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities in some areas.
- Economic challenges, including high rates of poverty and unemployment.
- Political instability and concerns over human rights.
- Accessibility can be an issue, with fewer direct international flights.
- Limited educational opportunities in rural areas.
Best Activities in Swaziland
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Malolotja, where you can enjoy breathtaking views, waterfalls, and a diverse array of plant and animal life.
Experience a thrilling game drive in Hlane, home to elephants, lions, and various antelope species. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
Visit traditional Swazi villages to learn about local customs, crafts, and the way of life of the Swazi people.
Enjoy bird watching in Mkhaya, which boasts a variety of bird species. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Try your hand at fishing in the Usuthu River, which offers a relaxing experience and the chance to catch local fish species.
Experience the thrilling terrain of Swaziland on mountain bikes, with various trails available for different skill levels.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip-line over the beautiful landscapes of Ezulwini Valley, offering unique perspectives of the surroundings.
Places to Visit in Swaziland
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Malolotja offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys, ideal for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
This small town near the border with South Africa provides striking viewpoints of the surrounding hills and valleys, excellent for capturing the essence of rural Swaziland.
As the highest point in Swaziland, Emlembe Peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect location for expansive landscape photos.
Famous for its wildlife, Hlane also features picturesque landscapes which serve as a backdrop for both nature and wildlife photography.
This living cultural village not only showcases Swazi culture but also provides beautiful scenic views, making it a great spot for both cultural and landscape photography.
Located near the border with South Africa, the views of the scenic landscapes surrounding the factory, along with the glass-blowing process itself, offer unique photographic opportunities.
The rural landscape of Siphofaneni features rolling hills, lush vegetation, and traditional homesteads, providing great opportunities for capturing rural life.
Food in Swaziland
Swaziland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional steamed bread made from maize meal, often served with a savory relish or grilled meat. It can be found at local markets and eateries throughout Swaziland.
Must-Try!
A maize porridge dish enjoyed as a staple food, often complemented with a side of vegetables or meat stew. This can be savored at homesteads and many eateries in Swaziland.
A fermented sorghum porridge, typically served with sour milk. It is a popular breakfast dish and can be found at local food stalls and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in Manzini offers a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. Visitors can indulge in tasty grilled meats, samosas, and traditional snacks like roasted mealies.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this market provides an opportunity to sample an assortment of local street foods such as vetkoek (fried dough bread) with various fillings, as well as flavorful grilled meats and fresh fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people politely. Use both verbal and non-verbal cues, such as handshakes or nodding, to show respect. The traditional greeting often includes asking about one another's health or family.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. When attending formal events or when visiting the royal family, traditional attire is often expected. Avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing to show respect for local customs.
Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Swazi culture. Always address older individuals with appropriate titles, and allow them to speak first in conversations. Showing deference to elders is a sign of good manners and cultural respect.
Safety
Tipping in Swaziland
Ensure a smooth experience
In Swaziland, tipping is generally appreciated but not compulsory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount, typically around 10% of the total, in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. In hotels, it is customary to tip porters and housekeeping staff for good service.
Payments in Swaziland can be made in cash, primarily in the local currency, lilangeni (SZL), as well as South African rand (ZAR) which is accepted in most places. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, such as hotels and major shops, but cash is preferred in rural areas and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This season is characterized by warm temperatures and higher humidity. Expect afternoon thunderstorms, especially in January and February. It's a great time for lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. This is also the best time for birdwatching, as many migratory species are present.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and less rainfall. The weather is generally pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and safaris. The landscapes are still green from the summer rains, and wildlife is more active as they seek water sources.
Winter in Swaziland is characterized by cooler temperatures, particularly at night. This is the dry season, providing perfect conditions for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources. Days are sunny and pleasant, making it a popular time for tourists to explore the national parks.
Spring marks a transition to warmer weather, with the landscapes starting to bloom again after winter. Temperatures begin to rise, and the chance of rainfall starts to increase toward the end of the season. It's a good time for cultural experiences, as various festivals may take place.
Swaziland at Night
Hiking in Swaziland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque sanctuary that offers a variety of hiking trails amidst beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.
Features extensive trails for hiking, where you can encounter elephants, lions, and other game in their natural habitat.
A scenic area with well-marked trails, offering both challenging and easy routes along lush landscapes and valleys.
A prominent geographical feature with hiking routes that provide stunning views and a glimpse into Swaziland's rugged beauty.
While known for its game drives, Mkhaya also offers guided walking safaris, combining hiking with wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Swaziland by plane.
The main international airport serving Swaziland, located near Lavumisa.
The busiest airport in Africa, located in Johannesburg, South Africa, approximately 450 km from Swaziland.
An international airport located in Durban, South Africa, about 600 km from Swaziland.
The main international airport in Maputo, Mozambique, roughly 600 km from Swaziland.
An international airport serving Cape Town, South Africa, about 1,400 km from Swaziland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Swaziland, making up the majority of the population.
A significant ethnic group, especially in the southern region, with cultural influences spread from South Africa.
Individuals with mixed heritage, often stemming from historical interactions between various ethnic groups.
A small but notable community mainly involved in business and commerce.
People of mixed African and European ancestry, constituting a small segment of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Swaziland, with a significant following and numerous local clubs and teams participating in national leagues and competitions.
Rugby is also a popular sport in Swaziland, enjoying a strong community of players and fans, with local tournaments and school competitions.
Cricket is gaining popularity in Swaziland, with various local leagues and grassroots programs aimed at promoting the sport among young people.
Netball is widely played, especially among women and girls, and is a common sport in schools across the country.
Athletics has a strong presence in Swaziland, with many schools and local clubs encouraging participation in track and field events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat plays a significant role in Swazi cuisine, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian dishes centered around fresh produce and grains. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences to ensure suitable options are available.
Locally produced maize and sorghum form the basis of many dishes, offering naturally gluten-free alternatives. However, it's recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to accommodate gluten-free requirements.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Swaziland.