Things to Do in Eswatini

About Eswatini

Eswatini is Africa's last absolute monarchy, sandwiched between South Africa and Mozambique, where royal ceremonies and wildlife reserves operate much as they have for centuries. No mass tourism here. The country runs on tradition—reed ceremonies in royal valleys, sacred mountains overlooking sugar cane fields, and reserves where animals roam without tour bus convoys crowding the roads. The Swazi people control the rhythm. Their customs aren't museum pieces or hotel lobby performances—they're active, daily practice. You'll see this in royal kraals, at community gatherings, and in how locals welcome visitors instead of tolerating them. The highlands deliver waterfalls and decent hiking. Artisans produce handcrafted work worth buying, not airport souvenir trash. The Ubuntu philosophy shows up in real interactions, though that warmth exists across southern Africa—Eswatini doesn't own it. Expect an intimate experience. The country is small, landlocked, and operates outside the typical safari circuit. That isolation works in its favor—genuine cultural access without the performance aspect that plagues bigger destinations. Whether that authenticity survives growing visitor numbers remains to be seen.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Kombis (minibus taxis) charge 10-25 SZL ($0.56-1.40) for routes around Mbabane and Manzini. Private taxis cost 50-150 SZL ($2.80-8.40) depending on distance. Cross-border transport to Johannesburg runs 200-350 SZL ($11.20-19.60). Airport transfers to Mbabane cost 150-250 SZL ($8.40-14.00). Car rentals through Avis start at 450 SZL ($25.20) daily. Walking is safe in city centers during daylight. Regional buses connect major towns at 20-60 SZL ($1.12-3.36) per trip.

Money: Swazi lilangeni (SZL) pegged to South African rand which is also accepted. Standard Bank and First National Bank ATMs reliable. Credit cards work at hotels, restaurants, and shops. Budget $30-60 daily. Both currencies used interchangeably at par value. Tipping 10-15% standard at restaurants. Mobile money through MTN increasing. USD also accepted at some tourist venues. Keep mixed currency for convenience. Border areas often quote in rand.

Cultural Respect: siSwati is the official language alongside English. Greet with handshakes and 'Sawubona' (hello). Traditional monarchy commands deep respect - stand when mentioned. Modest dress required especially at cultural events. Photography at royal ceremonies restricted. Traditional healers and customs still important. Christian majority but ancestor veneration continues. Business relationships built through personal connections. Ubuntu philosophy of community interconnectedness valued. Avoid political discussions about monarchy unless initiated by locals.

Food Safety: Traditional restaurants serve pap and morogo for 35-70 SZL ($1.96-3.92). Braai (barbecue) at local spots costs 80-150 SZL ($4.48-8.40). Castle or Black Label beer runs 25-40 SZL ($1.40-2.24). Boerewors at markets costs 30-60 SZL ($1.68-3.36) per portion. Bottled water costs 15-25 SZL ($0.84-1.40). Tap water generally safe in cities. South African food chains operate with familiar standards. Traditional beer (umqombothi) at cultural events costs 10-20 SZL ($0.56-1.12).

When to Visit

Eswatini's subtropical climate offers distinct seasonal experiences, with May through September providing ideal conditions. Winter months (May-August) feature crisp, sunny days averaging 20-23°C and cool nights around 5-10°C, perfect for wildlife viewing and hiking with minimal rainfall (10-30mm monthly). This peak season sees accommodation prices increase 30-40% and advance booking essential. Spring (September-November) brings warming temperatures of 25-28°C and spectacular wildflower blooms, with moderate pricing and fewer crowds. Summer (December-March) delivers hot, humid conditions reaching 28-32°C and substantial rainfall (100-150mm monthly), creating lush landscapes but challenging road conditions. Budget travelers benefit from 20-30% lower rates during this off-peak period. Plan around major cultural events: the lively Umhlanga Reed Dance (late August/early September) celebrates young women and attracts international visitors, while the sacred Incwala ceremony (December/January dates vary) honors the king and harvest season. March-April offers shoulder season advantages with pleasant temperatures around 24-26°C, reduced rainfall, and moderate pricing. Wildlife ensoiasts should visit during dry winter months when animals congregate around water sources. Cultural immersion seekers will find real feels year-round, though ceremony seasons provide extraordinary insights into Swazi traditions and royal customs.