swaziland tours packages

• You are here:
• Eswatini (Swaziland) Tours

Your Safari

Tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

• Johannesburg (2)
• Nairobi (0)
• Entebbe (0)
• Zanzibar (0)
• Dar es Salaam (0)
• Kampala (0)
• Victoria Falls Town (0)
• Windhoek (0)
• Addis Ababa (0)
• Cape Town (0)
• Mombasa (0)
• Livingstone (0)
• Antananarivo (0)
• Hoedspruit (0)
• Port Elizabeth (0)
• Pretoria (5)
• Bujumbura (0)
• Hazyview (0)
• Upington (0)
• Diani Beach (0)
• Blantyre (0)
• Nelspruit (0)
• Lilongwe (0)
• Bulawayo (0)

Comfort Level

• Luxury+ (0)
• Mid-range (8)

Private or Shared Tour

• Private tour (7)
• Shared tour (3)

Safari Type

• Lodge, tented camp or hotel (8)
• Camping (2)

Operator Rating

• & up (10)

Specialized Tours

• Fly-in safaris (0)
• Beach time (1)
• Honeymoon (0)
• Gorilla trekking (0)
• Photographic safaris (0)
• Mountain climbing (0)
• Walking safaris (0)
• Self-drive (1)
• Guided self-drive (4)
• Chimp trekking (0)
• Overland tours (2)
• Cycling safaris (0)
• Canoe safaris (0)
• Horseback safaris (0)
• Birding tours (0)
• Accessible safaris (0)
• Golf & Wildlife (0)

Other Tour Features

• Airport transfer is included (10)
• Itinerary can be customized (7)

Filter by Operator

Filter by accommodation, operators from.

• South Africa (9)
• Tanzania (0)
• United Kingdom (1)
• United States (0)
• Australia (0)
• Belgium (0)
• Botswana (0)
• Comoros (0)
• Denmark (0)
• Ethiopia (0)
• Eswatini (0)
• Germany (0)
• Ireland (0)
• Lesotho (0)
• Madagascar (0)
• Mauritius (0)
• Mayotte (0)
• Mozambique (0)
• Namibia (0)
• Netherlands (0)
• New Zealand (0)
• Nigeria (0)
• Portugal (0)
• Reunion (0)
• Seychelles (0)
• Singapore (0)
• Switzerland (0)
• United Arab Emirates (0)
• Zimbabwe (0)

Eswatini (Swaziland) Safari Tours & Holidays

The Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is a small but fabulous destination for a safari vacation. The country’s protected areas have a lot of variety, especially given the tiny size of the kingdom. This in turn means there is a diversity of wildlife, which is particularly good in the premier parks of Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve. Other protected areas encourage getting out and about on foot or bicycle, due to the absence of dangerous animals, to explore the sublime landscapes.

5-Day Swaziland Tour

$965 pp (USD)

Eswatini: Private tour Mid-range Self Catering Accommodation & Bush Camp

You Visit: Mbabane (Start) , Mlilwane WS, Hlane Royal NP, Mbabane (End)

Safari With Us

5.0 /5  –  217 Reviews

2-Day Eswatini (Swaziland) Cultural & Scenic Tour Add On

$466 pp (USD)

Eswatini: Private tour Mid-range Bush Camp

You Visit: Mbabane (Start) , Mlilwane WS, Ngwenya Glass (Highlight) , Mbabane (End)

Mmilo Tours

5.0 /5  –  124 Reviews

14-Day Kruger and Kwa-Zulu Natal

$6,323 pp (USD)

South Africa & Eswatini: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Durban (Start) , Umdloti (Beach) , St Lucia (iSimangaliso WP) , Hluhluwe-iMfolozi GR, Manyoni GR, Tembe Elephant Park, Hlane Royal NP, Southern Kruger, Central Kruger, Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

Pictus Safaris

4.3 /5  –  6 Reviews

14-Day Walking Safari in South Africa and Swaziland

$2,243 pp (USD)

South Africa & Eswatini: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Mpumalanga, Greater Kruger, Malolotja NR, Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal) , Isandlwana (KZN Battlefields) , Royal Natal (Drakensberg Mountains) , Drakensberg Mountains (Mountain Range) , Johannesburg (End)

Sunway Safaris

4.5 /5  –  30 Reviews

17-Day South Africa Rainbow Route

$2,730 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Malolotja NR, Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal) , Royal Natal (Drakensberg Mountains) , East London (City) , Addo Elephant NP, Knysna (Garden Route) , Hermanus (Whales) , Cape Town (End)

14-Day Eswatini, Kruger Guided Self-Drive Budget Camping

$1,552 pp (USD)

Eswatini & South Africa: Self-drive Budget Camping & Cottage

You Visit: Pretoria (Start) , Malolotja NR, Mlilwane WS, Hlane Royal NP, Bulembu (Town) , Southern Kruger, Central Kruger, Lekgalameetse NR, Pretoria (End)

Bonsai-SA 4x4 Adventures and Tours

5.0 /5  –  15 Reviews

7-Day Hlane & Mlilwane Guided Self-Drive Mid Range Tour

$1,287 pp (USD)

Eswatini & South Africa: Guided self-drive Mid-range Lodge & Cottage

You Visit: Pretoria (Start) , Mlilwane WS, Hlane Royal NP, Bulembu (Town) , Pretoria (End)

5-Day Hlane Royal NP Guided Self-Drive Mid Range Tour

$995 pp (USD)

7-Day Hlane and Mlilwane Guided Self-Drive Camping Tour

$1,066 pp (USD)

Eswatini & South Africa: Guided self-drive Budget Camping

5-Day Malolotja NR Guided Self-Drive Mid Range Tour

$647 pp (USD)

Eswatini & South Africa: Guided self-drive Mid-range Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Pretoria (Start) , Malolotja NR, Bulembu (Town) , Pretoria (End)

Tour Operators Offering Custom Tours

Wayfairer travel, pembury tours, related searches.

• Eswatini Tour Operators
• Hlane Royal Safari Tours
• Mlilwane Safari Tours
• Mayotte Tour Operators
• Mauritius Safari Companies
• Djibouti Safari Companies
• 10 Best Safari Companies in Seychelles
• African Safaris
• Angola Safari Companies
• Burundi Safari Companies
• Seychelles Safari Companies
• 10 Best Safari Companies in Réunion

7 Questions About Eswatini Safaris

Answered by

Alan murphy.

When is the best time to visit Eswatini?

“The dry winter months (May to September) are usually the best time for wildlife viewing on an Eswatini safari holiday. At that time of year there is the increased possibility of spotting some of the smaller critters in the kingdom, which are usually elusive at the best of times. During winter the vegetation dies back, and wildlife tends to be drawn to the remaining water sources. This means that staking out a waterhole can make for very productive viewing. Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve have decent wildlife viewing year-round. This is because many of the more popular (and endangered) mammals are kept in large enclosures, making them relatively easy to find. Keep in mind that most parks see an upsurge in visitor numbers during South African and Eswatini holidays.”

Why visit Eswatini? What are the major attractions?

“For some people, not being in South Africa is a major attraction of Eswatini. There is certainly a tension that can be experienced in South Africa (due to crime and the legacy of entrenched racism) that is absent in Eswatini. But the kingdom offers so much more. For a dose of culture, adventure sports and craft shopping head for the Ezulwini Valley, just outside the capital, Mbabane. If white-water rafting is your ticket to adrenaline heaven, shoot for the Great Usutu River in central Eswatini. However, it’s the patchwork quilt of protected areas that really grabs the imagination in this country and makes an Eswatini safari trip well worthwhile. Hlane Royal National Park is arguably the best protected area for wildlife in the kingdom. Apart from buffalo, the Big Five are here, and it’s a beautiful park. And if you’ve extra coin rolling around in your pockets, then Mkhaya Game Reserve is stunning, with your best chance of spotting black rhino in this part of Africa. The other protected areas make for some excellent activities such as walking and cycling (but are less about the Big Five).”

What does an Eswatini safari cost?

“Most Eswatini safaris and tours cover more than just the kingdom, i.e. Eswatini safari trips involve parks in South Africa, such as Kruger and parks in KwaZulu-Natal, and the longer trips go further afield again. Keep in mind that Eswatini is tiny, so it’s easy to ‘pop in and out’ while you explore the wider area. If you go to Mkhaya, which is a private reserve, you will pay more but the quality of the guiding, the animals you will likely see and the fantastic accommodation in gorgeous surrounds make it well worthwhile. If you go on a big, organized tour then the most popular Eswatini safari packages tend to be budget (camping) and mid-range (lodge accommodation) tours. Generally speaking, in Eswatini the prices of camping safaris will be around US$100 per person per day, while the price of a mid-range tour will be upward of US$200 per person a day and will involve staying in comfortable lodge accommodation. An Eswatini tour also travels through a good chunk of South Africa, so your holiday can cover a lot of ground. And if it’s luxury you seek then the sky is the limit! While Eswatini has some accommodation that can be considered top end, South Africa and Kruger National Park, and its surrounding network of private concessions in particular, have world-class luxury safari vacations on offer. So, it all comes down to your taste and the weight of your wallet.”

How is the wildlife viewing in Eswatini?

“The wildlife viewing in Eswatini’s premier parks – Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve – is excellent. Together they support all of the Big Five (Hlane lacks buffalo, Mkhaya lions and elephants). Mkhaya boasts the kingdom’s only buffalo, black rhino, sable antelope, eland and tsessebe populations. What makes the wildlife viewing even better is the drive-through enclosures that are used to support populations of some of the more vulnerable species. This is one of southern Africa’s best places to see black rhino. At the popular Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary there are no animals considered dangerous to people, which means activities such as guided walking, horseback riding and mountain biking are allowed. The wildlife you see includes different species of antelope, hippo, wildebeest and warthog. It’s a lot of fun spotting these species under your own steam. Mbuluzi Game Reserve is similar to Mlilwane where seeing animals on foot is the primary way to experience the reserve. Also here are nocturnal creatures such as civet, honey badger and bushpig that make for an exciting night safari.”

How safe is Eswatini for tourists?

“Eswatini is a very safe country to spend time in, and in the parks and reserves it’s very unusual to experience crime targeted at tourists. This can come as a relief after spending time in South Africa, which is well known for its high levels of crime. The only exception to this is the larger urban areas such as Mbabane and Manzini – here the same rules apply as they would in any city. That is, don’t wear or carry flashy expensive items, leave valuables in a hotel safe, don’t walk around at night (catch a taxi instead), and be on a higher level of alert regarding what is going on around you on the streets. In the parks and reserves, wildlife viewing always entails some risk – after all, wild animals are unpredictable. However, if you listen to your guide’s instructions then you’ll almost certainly be fine. Serious incidents are rare, and in Eswatini almost unheard of.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“In Eswatini you can expect all types of accommodation – from camping through to good, solid mid-range lodges at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane Royal National Park, and then upwards to the relative luxury of the rustic, semi-open cottages to be found at Mkhaya Game Reserve, or the luxury tents and lodges in Mbuluzi. This type of top-end experience tends to be excellent value in Eswatini, especially when compared to neighboring countries. For super luxury, with all the facilities and the perks, you’ll need to head for one of the private concessions around Kruger National Park in South Africa. In general, the type of accommodation you end up with is directly linked to how much money you want to spend, and although there are limits to this in Eswatini, the bar is a lot higher in nearby South Africa.”

What can I expect from a safari in Eswatini?

“You can expect to see a lot of wildlife in the premier parks of Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve on an Eswatini safari vacation, including the Big Five. In particular, you may well spot rare species such as roan and sable antelope, and Mkhaya is probably the best place in southern Africa to see the highly endangered black rhino. In other protected areas you can enjoy the beautiful African landscapes by getting out on foot, horseback or bicycle. The larger, potentially dangerous animals are absent from places such as Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary or Mbuluzi Game Reserve. Lastly, given the warmth and hospitality of the Swazi people, you can expect a great time connecting with the locals while enjoying the kingdom’s wildlife. If interested you should read up on Eswatini’s history. Its conservation-minded policies are no accident: conservation is something the kingdom had to fight hard for.”

Eswatini Safari Reviews

Mark is a travel writer who grew up in Africa and has written over 700 titles for Condé Nast Traveller, Travel Africa, BBC Wildlife and others.

The Unknown Kingdom

I’d wanted to visit the mysterious Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) for as long as I could remember, so I was delighted to cover a story on conservation in the country for BBC Earth magazine. Eswatini is home to many rare and...

Full Review

Stephen is a travel writer and avid conservationist whose work appears in prestigious magazines such as Africa Geographic and Travel Africa.

Home of the Big Game Parks

Pint-sized Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is unchartered safari territory for most Africa aficionados. Sandwiched between South Africa and Mozambique, just to the south of Kruger National Park, this tiny African monarchy offers an impressive...

Sensational

I spent four nights in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) in January 2020, staying in Mbabane, the small capital. The country is roughly the same size as Wales. The roads are not as good as those in neighbouring South Africa: there are many...

A really exotic experience in a country that deserves more recognition.

I was really pleased by my discover of the Swaziland. I love to walk across the Mlilwane wildlife sanctuary. It was a really implying day, during this visit i could see beautiful landscapes and admire wild animals living in half-liberty. It...

I was lucky enough to do safaris as three different places during my trip - one by bicycle and two in 4x4. My favourite was the Mkhaya Game Reserve. We did both sunset and sunrise safari drives and the wildlife, scenery and overall...

A trip to authenticity

The trip to Swaziland has been a very nice discovery. People are really nice and not polluted by European way of living. Landscapes are beautiful! Accommodations are good (compliant to European standard !!). This is really a place I’d...

THE 10 BEST Eswatini (Swaziland) Tours & Excursions

Eswatini (swaziland) tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Eswatini (Swaziland) 1-day Country Tour from Maputo

2. Eswatini Hiking Trail

3. Eswatini Cultural Tour

4. eSwatini Full Day Tour

5. Swaziland Cultural Day Trip

6. Full-day Tour of Eswatini (Swaziland) (Min. 2 pax)

7. HLANE ROYAL NATIONAL PARK - Daytrip (Open Vehicle)

8. Walking Eco City tour Manzini

9. 6 Day Garden Route Small Group Tour Fr CapeTown - Departs Mondays

10. Hlane Royal National Park - Eswatini Full Day Tour

11. Mbabane City Walking Tours- eSwatini

12. 4-Day Best Of eSwatini Tour- The African experience

13. Full-Day Hlane Royal National Park Safari from Manzini

14. 3 Days Cultural Swaziland, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane National Park.

15. Eswatini Cultural Tour (Swaziland)

16. 2 Days Cultural Swaziland Hlane National Park

17. Bush Fire Swaziland Expedition

18. Hlane National park

19. Eswatini Transfer Bus

What travelers are saying.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Swaziland Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Swaziland. We've got 4 adventures going to Swaziland, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 12 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the largest number of tour departures.

4 Swaziland tour packages with 1 review

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

3 Days Cultural Swaziland, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane National Park

This tour exceeded our expectations. Everything was delightful! Our guide Mr. Simba helped us in three days (6-9 January 2023) to explore the cultural traditions and nature of Swaziland. We were particularly impressed by the rhinos we saw up close in Hlane National Park! We got some great photos and videos. Thank you very much for an interesting trip! Dmitry and Irina.

The Kingdom of Swaziland Explored (Eswatini)

Swaziland Tour

Eswatini Highlights

Looking for tours beyond just swaziland.

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Swaziland.

Swaziland Tour & Vacation Packages

10 tours to swaziland.

Popular activities in Swaziland include 4WD , Walking and Sightseeing

Filters (10 matches)

• June 2024 (5)
• July 2024 (7)
• August 2024 (9)
• September 2024 (7)
• October 2024 (8)
• November 2024 (7)
• December 2024 (7)
• January 2025 (8)
• February 2025 (7)
• March 2025 (8)
• April 2025 (6)
• May 2025 (6)
• June 2025 (8)
• July 2025 (8)
• August 2025 (9)
• September 2025 (8)
• October 2025 (8)
• November 2025 (7)
• December 2025 (6)
• January 2026 (2)
• February 2026 (1)
• March 2026 (1)
• April 2026 (2)
• Specific Date

Travel Style

• Fully Guided (10)
• Lesotho (4)
• Mozambique (1)
• South Africa (10)
• Swaziland (10)
• Adventure Tours (2)
• Coach tours (worldwide) (1)
• Safari Tours (8)
• Walking Hiking and Trekking (3)
• Beach Tours (6)
• Cultural (4)
• Foodie and Wine Tours (1)
• History (1)
• Photography (4)
• Wildlife Tours (10)
• Boat/Cruise Excursion (2)
• Canoeing-Kayaking (1)
• Cycling (1)
• Sightseeing (4)
• Trekking (1)
• Walking (5)
• Wine Tasting (1)

Recommended For

• Family-Kids (1)
• Explore! (3)
• Intrepid Travel (3)
• Trafalgar (1)

Kruger, Eswatini and South Africa's Garden...

Visiting: Saint Lucia, Drakensberg, Hermanus, Mlilwane ... more

Visiting: Saint Lucia, Drakensberg, Hermanus, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Stellenbosch, Gqeberha, Swellendam, iSimangaliso wetland park, Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, Graskop, Knysna, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg, Tsitsikamma National Park, Swaziland, Oudtshoorn, Addo Elephant National Park, Cape Town, Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park ... less View Tour

South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Visiting: Royal Natal National Park, Drakensberg, ... more

Visiting: Royal Natal National Park, Drakensberg, Swaziland, Graskop, Letaba Ranch, Johannesburg, Malolotja National Park, Belfast, Kruger National Park, Saint Lucia, South Africa ... less View Tour

Kruger & Coast

Visiting: Kruger National Park, Hlane Royal National Park, ... more

Visiting: Kruger National Park, Hlane Royal National Park, South Africa, Greater Kruger National Park - Black Mambas HQ, Swaziland, Johannesburg, Durban, St Lucia Estuary ... less View Tour

Cape Town to Johannesburg

Visiting: Eswatini, Hermanus, Saint Lucia, Lesotho, Blyde ... more

Visiting: Eswatini, Hermanus, Saint Lucia, Lesotho, Blyde River Canyon, Graaff-Reinet, Johannesburg, Tsitsikamma National Park, Lesotho, Letaba Ranch, Cape Town, South Africa, Kruger National Park, Drakensberg, Dundee, Swaziland ... less View Tour

Johannesburg to Cape Town

Visiting: Hlane National Park, Kruger National Park, ... more

Visiting: Hlane National Park, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, Drakensberg, South Africa, Hermanus, Lesotho, Saint Lucia, Tsitsikamma National Park, Cape Town, Swaziland, Lesotho, Dundee, Graaff-Reinet, Johannesburg ... less View Tour

Best of South Africa

Visiting: Johannesburg, South Africa, Drakensberg ... more

Visiting: Johannesburg, South Africa, Drakensberg Mountains, Knysna, Gqeberha, Lesotho, Eastern Cape, Swaziland, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, Cape Town, Kruger National Park Area, Drakensberg, Mbabane, Durban, Kruger National Park ... less View Tour

Family South Africa Safari and Beach...

Visiting: Durban, South Africa, Swaziland, Graskop, ... more

Visiting: Durban, South Africa, Swaziland, Graskop, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Mozambique, Kruger National Park, Manguzi, Saint Lucia, Johannesburg, Blyde River Canyon ... less View Tour

Kruger, Coast & Cape

Visiting: Hlane Royal National Park, Johannesburg, Kruger ... more

Visiting: Hlane Royal National Park, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Lesotho, Swaziland, St Lucia Estuary, Garden Route / Oudtshoorn, Durban, Greater Kruger National Park - Black Mambas HQ, Garden Route / Tsitsikamma National Park, Wild Coast/Cintsa, Lesotho Highlands, Tsitsikamma National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, Cape Town, Drakensberg, South Africa ... less View Tour

Zululand and Kruger Wildlife

Visiting: Johannesburg, South Africa, O.R. Tambo ... more

Visiting: Johannesburg, South Africa, O.R. Tambo International Airport, Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, Swaziland, St. Lucia Wetlands, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Kruger National Park, Drakensberg ... less View Tour

South Africa Family Safari with Teenagers

Visiting: Johannesburg, Blyde River Canyon, South Africa, ... more

Visiting: Johannesburg, Blyde River Canyon, South Africa, Hluhluwe Game Reserve, Kosi Bay, Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, Swaziland, Hlane National Park, Kruger National Park ... less View Tour

Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates and travel inspiration.

Swaziland Tours

Swaziland is a landlocked country in southern Africa which lies between South Africa in the west and Mozambique in the East. Officially known as the Kingdom of Eswatini, it’s the smallest country in the southern hemisphere and is home to one of the oldest absolute monarchies in Africa.

It’s known for its magnificent landscapes, rich cultural heritage, incredible fauna and flora and as an outstanding outdoor adventure destination. The people of Swaziland have a well-earned reputation for being one of the most friendly and peaceful nations in southern Africa and you always leave after a visit to Swaziland with a small piece of its beautiful spirit in your heart. Visitors can experience authentic Swazi customs and traditions through several well-managed community tourism projects which provide a rare glimpse into the traditional lives of the warm-hearted Swazi people. The Swaziland culture is deeply engrained in daily life and it’s wonderful to witness a nation united in their pride and passion for their country.

The reigning monarch of Swaziland recently renamed the country the Kingdom of Eswatini; the latter meaning the “Land of the Swazis”. Swaziland itself was named in honour of Mswati II who became king in 1839. Eswatini may be the new official name for the small and endearing country but it’ll always be Swaziland to locals and regular visitors.

A tour of Swaziland will take you to a selection of relatively small but stunning game parks and nature reserves and to the main tourist destinations which range from the Swazi candle factory and craft markets to authentic cultural villages, popular casino and entertainment complexes and rivers and lakes where you can kayak, canoe and everything else.

There’s so much to see and do in Swaziland that it’s a good thing the main attractions are so easily accessible from South Africa and Mozambique. One visit to Swaziland is never enough. Swaziland is a poor country and burdened with problems brought on by extreme poverty and it has one of the world’s highest AIDS rate. However, Swaziland is known for its civility and peacefulness; a visit to Swaziland is safe and thoroughly enjoyable if you follow common-sense travel safety tips.

THE ROYAL FAMILY OF SWAZILAND

The royal lineage of Swaziland can be traced back to the Dlamini clan. Born Prince Makhosetive Dlamini in 1968, King Mswati III of Swaziland is the son of King Sobhuza II and one of his younger wives, Ntfombi Tfwala.

King Sobhuza II married 70 wives who collectively gave him 210 children. At his death, King Sobhuza II had over 1 000 grandchildren. King Sobhuza II died at the age of 83 years in 1982. He had reigned for 82 years. A Swazi king cannot appoint his successor and there is no line of succession. A traditional council called the Liqoqo decides which of the wives will be the “Great Wife” or “Indlovukati” (meaning Great She-Elephant/Queen Mother) after the death of the king. The son of this “Great Wife” automatically becomes the next king.

King Mswati III was 14 years old when he was chosen to be the next king. He was officially crowned in April 1986 when he reached the age of 18 years. The king and his mother, the Indlovukati, rule jointly.

King Mswati III attended Sherborne International College in Dorset, England between 1983 and 1986. In his formative years, the monarch was educated at the Masundwini Royal Residence and the Lozitha Palace School.

The first two wives chosen for a Swazi king are selected by the national councilors. These wives are ritualistic wives and their sons can never become kings. The first wife must be a member of the Matsebula clan and the second wife must come from the Motsa clan. The Swazi king chooses his other wives; often at a festival called the Reed Dance. A royal fiancée is called Liphovela which means ‘bride’. They graduate from being fiancées to full wives when they become pregnant. They marry in a customary ceremony.

As per traditional Swaziland culture, the king is expected to take a wife from every clan in order to cement relationships with the individual clan leaders. As a result, the king of Swaziland has many wives. To date, King Mswati III has over 15 wives and 23 children.

King Mswati III of Swaziland has been named the third wealthiest King in Africa by an international business website. In 2017, Business Insider reported he had a net worth of US$200 million. Although he’s well respected and fairly popular in Swaziland, King Mswati III’s policies and lavish lifestyle have led to local protests and international criticism. While 65% of Swazis live below the poverty line and 27% of the population is HIV positive, the king enjoys an extravagant lifestyle and supports the excessive lifestyle of a grossly extended royal family. King Mswati III has also come under flack for allegedly mistreating and abusing his wives and has been accused by the mother of one wife of kidnapping her young daughter.

SWAZILAND CULTURE

A defining characteristic of the country is the Swaziland culture and how it impacts on almost every aspect of daily life. The people of Swaziland have deeply entrenched cultural beliefs and traditions that have stood the test of time. The Swazi identity and its kinship to the monarchy is evident in many areas; from their arts and crafts, tribal customs and a number of important Swazi ceremonies.

iNcwala or First Fruits Ceremony The most sacred ceremony held in Swaziland is the iNewala or First Fruits Ceremony. It usually takes place in December and signals the end of the old and the beginning of the new year when the first fruits of the new harvest may be eaten. More importantly, the ceremony affirms the Swazis kinship to their king. The “iNewala lenkhulu” (the Big iNewala) starts off when groups of young men set out from the Royal capital of Lobamba to collect “lusekwane” which is a species of Acacia tree that is later used to cover the “inhlambelo”. This is the sacred enclosure in the “sibaya” (cattle kraal) where most ceremonies will take place.

The young men march with the “emabutfo” which are warrior regiments to the Royal residence of Lozitha. They sing a specific iNewala song that is strictly taboo any other time of the year. When they enter the Lozitha, they give the royal salute and collectively emit an ear-piercing whistle while raising their large cowhide shields above their heads. They dance and surge forwards, towards the King and other members of the Swaziland’s Royalty. The ceremony continues in different forms culminating with the King himself performing rituals in the enclosure. At its climax, the King eats of the First Fruits.

On this day, almost the whole nation comes to the Royal capital of Lobamba to participate in a ceremony that is an outstanding visual spectacular of Swazi men and women dressed in traditional dress and energetic dancing and singing. By the end of the day, hundreds of warriors dancing the slow Swazi dances fill the ceremonial cattle kraal. The iNewala ceremony comes to an end on the final day with the King washing himself with water brought by young warriors from the various rivers of Swaziland and the sea at Mozambique. A fire is made and the remains of a slaughtered bull are eaten along with the sacred First Fruits. Clothing used by the King is ritually burnt and the King joins his warriors for a ceremonial dance. Unfortunately, casual spectators are not allowed at this impressive event and the only outsiders permitted to attend are special guests invited by the Royal family.

Reed Dance The Umhlanga Reed Dance is an iconic event in Swaziland which takes place each year at the end of August when the reeds are matured and ready to harvest. It lasts about 8 days and gives the childless and unwed maidens of Swaziland the chance to pay homage to the ‘Indlovukazi’, the Queen Mother of Swaziland. It’s attended by young ladies from all over the country who are looked after and mentored by captains appointed by the Royal Family. As part of the traditional ceremony, the girls cut reeds and carry them on their back to the Royal Residence. The reeds are used as windbreakers at the perimeter of the royal compound. The 7th day of the Umhlanga Reed Dance is a national holiday in Swaziland and the day the King joins in the ceremony. His Majesty Mswati III makes his way through the throngs of thousands of cheering girls and some years, he’ll select a new wife from the group.

FAST FACTS ABOUT SWAZILAND

• The population of Swaziland is divided roughly between the Nguni, Sotho and Tsonga people.
• The current king of Swaziland is Mswati III, son of Sobuza II. He has about 70 wives and rules jointly with Indlovukazi, the Queen Mother.
• Mswati III introduced the chastity decree for under-18s to combat the rise of AIDS in Swaziland. However, Mswati broke the rule when he married a 17-year-old girl in 2005. She was his 13th wife.
• The primary symbol on the Swaziland national flag is of the king himself.
• The ‘incwala’ is a national ceremony that lasts several weeks and focuses on traditional rule, unity of the state and the importance of agriculture, sacredness of land, fertility and potency.
• Swaziland is the oldest absolute monarchy in Africa. Opposition parties are banned and the King remains the absolute monarch.
• Swaziland enjoys a sub-tropical climate and the weather in Swaziland is generally warm and pleasant with light to heavy rains in the summer months. It’s a year-round destination as far as weather is concerned but if you’re visiting for the amazing outdoor adventures in Swaziland, choose to go in the months on either side of the heavy rainfall season (November to February).
• English is the official language of business. It is spoken by locals working in the main cities and towns and major tourist attractions. However, English is not commonly spoken or understood in the rural areas.
• The currency of Swaziland is the ‘lilangeni’; the plural is ‘emalangeni’. It’s denoted by the symbol ‘L’ or ‘E’. The currency is tied to and on par with the South African Rand.
• Both the Swaziland ‘lilangeni’ and South African Rands are accepted at shops in the major cities and towns of Swaziland as well as accommodation in Swaziland and the main tourist attractions in Swaziland. The same does not apply in reverse; the Swaziland lilangeni is not accepted in South Africa.
• The capital of Swaziland is Mbabane and home to about 100 000 people. It’s also the administrative seat of government. Mbabane was founded in the late 1880s by canteen-keeper Mickey Wells. It was chosen as the capital city by the British in 1903 because it was more central than Manzini and the climate was more pleasant.
• Manzini was the former capital of Swaziland. It was founded by a store keeper in the late 1880s and established as the capital of the Transvaal in 1895. Including the adjacent Matsapha industrial area, Manzini has the largest urban population in Swaziland.

BRIEF HISTORY OF SWAZILAND

Artifacts found in Swaziland reveal human habitation in the region that dates back to the early Stone Age some 200 000 years ago. Prehistoric rock art paintings date from circa 25 000 BC. The earliest inhabitants of what is now Swaziland were the Khoisan which were a hunter-gatherer tribe. They were largely replaced by the Bantu tribes that which moved down for the Great Lakes regions in Eastern Africa into the southern region during the Bantu migrations.

The people of the present Swazi nation migrated south before the 16th century to what is now Mozambique. Following a series of conflicts with people living in the area of modern Maputo, the Swazis settled in northern Zululand in about 1750. Unable to match the growing Zulu strength, the Swazis moved gradually northward in the 1800s and established themselves in the area of what is now Swaziland.

They consolidated their hold under several able leaders. The most important was Mswati II, from whom the Swazis derive their name. Under his leadership in the 1840s, the Swazis expanded their territory to the northwest and stabilised the southern frontier with the Zulus. Early in Mswati II’s reign, he made contact with the British authorities in South Africa and asked for help to ward off Zulu raids into Swaziland. It was during his reign that the first White settlers arrived in the country attracted by it fertile lands and farming opportunities.

After the death of Mswati II, the Swazis reached an agreement with British and South African authorities over a range of issues which included independence, claims on resources by Europeans, administrative authority and security. The South African government administered the Swazi interests from 1894 to 1902; the British assumed control in 1902. Swaziland’s independence in the 19th and 20th century was largely dictated by British rule in southern Africa. In 1881, the British government signed a convention that recognised Swaziland as an independent country. However, at the start of the Anglo Boer war, Britain placed Swaziland under its direct jurisdiction as a Protectorate.

It was only in 1963 that the independence constitution was promulgated by Britain and a legislative council and an executive council was established. Changes to the original constitution were proposed by the Legislative Council and accepted by Britain and a new Constitution that provided for a House of Assembly and Senate was drawn up. Elections were held in 1967 and Swaziland finally gained its independence from Britain in 1968.

King Sobhuza II repealed the 1968 constitution on April 1973 and dissolved parliament. He assumed all powers of government and prohibited all political activities and trade unions from operating. He justified his actions as having removed alien and divisive political practices incompatible with the Swazi way of life. Since 1973, Swaziland has endured a quiet struggle between the absolute monarchy and pro-multiparty activist. In January 1979, a new parliament was convened, chosen partly through indirect elections and partly through direct appointment by the King. The country today remains an absolute monarch.

King Sobhuza II died in August 1982 and Queen Regent Dzeliwe assumed the duties of the head of state. In 1984, an internal dispute led to the replacement of the Prime Minister and eventual replacement of Dzeliwe by a new Queen Regent Ntombi.

Ntombi’s only child, Prince Makhosetive, was named heir to the Swazi throne. Real power at this time was concentrated in the Liqoqo, a supreme traditional advisory body that claimed to give binding advice to the Queen Regent. In October 1985, Queen Regent Ntombi demonstrated her power by dismissing the leading figures of the Liqoqo. Prince Makhosetive returned from school in England to ascend to the throne and help end the continuing internal disputes. He was enthroned as Mswati III on April 1986. Shortly afterwards he abolished the Liqoqo. In November 1987, a new parliament was elected and a new cabinet appointed.

In 1988 and 1989, an underground political party, the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) criticised the King and his government, calling for democratic reforms. In response to this political threat and to growing popular calls for greater accountability within government, the King and the Prime Minister initiated an ongoing national debate on the constitutional and political future of Swaziland.

This debate produced a handful of political reforms which were approved by King Mswati III. It also led to direct and indirect voting in the 1993 national elections. Although domestic groups and international observers criticised the government in late 2002 for interfering with the independence of the judiciary, parliament and freedom of the press; significant improvements have been made concerning rule of law in the convening years. A new Constitution went into effect in early 2006 and the 1973 proclamation lapsed at that time. Among other measures, the 1973 proclamation saw political parties banned in the country.

SWAZILAND ECONOMY

Agriculture is the backbone of the Swaziland economy, largely due to its rich fertile soils and high rainfall. The main exports are sugar, soft drink concentrates, cotton, maize, tobacco, rice and wood pulp. Subsistence farming by local villagers has led to lands being badly overgrazed and over-farmed. This is a huge problem in times of persistent drought. Unemployment sits at the 25% mark and is trending upwards as AIDS takes its hold on the people of Swaziland and their ability to work. THE PEOPLE OF SWAZILAND

The population of Swaziland is divided roughly between the Nguni, Sotho and Tsonga people. About 3% of the population are Whites who are permanent residents of Swaziland. The easiest way to work out whether you’re in a Sotho or Nguni area is to look at how their huts are built. Nguni huts are shaped like beehives. Sotho huts have window frames and full doorways and a living space divided into three parts; living accommodation, animal housing and the ‘Great Hut’ which is reserved for the spirits of the patrilineal ancestors. In rural areas, social rank is determined by the head of the house’s relationship with their chief or to the royal family. In the urban areas of Swaziland, proficiency in English is the main social measurement. The people of Swaziland host many festivals and ceremonies throughout the year but the most important is the one held on 19 April for the King’s birthday. It’s celebrated with a national public holiday. The famous Reed (Umhlanga) Dance is a 3-day festival which takes place in August when thousands of virgins from all over Swaziland congregate. The Kink is permitted to pick a new bride from the group. IS SWAZILAND SAFE TO VISIT?

On the whole, Swaziland is safe to visit. It doesn’t suffer from a high violent crime rate but you’ll still encounter crime in the form of petty theft, street muggings and quite rarely, car hijackings. This tends to be orchestrated by youngsters targeting unsuspecting holidaymakers. Tourism is extremely important to Swaziland and criminals targeting tourists are quickly bought to book and punished. There is little to no racial tension in Swaziland and you’ll find on a holiday to Swaziland, the experience is wonderful and the people friendly and hospitable. Hotels in Swaziland provide security features to ensure their guests are safe and have a peaceful, uneventful holiday. Tourism is the mainstay of the popular Ezulwini Valley and on the whole, tourists are treated with respect and warmly welcomed in the country. If you’re looking for decent, reliable Swaziland accommodation; stick to the popular choices that receive top-scoring reviews on TripAdvisor. Make safety a priority on a trip to Swaziland and avoid staying in places that are unsafe and using transport that’s not reliable and where your safety cannot be guaranteed. The biggest safety threat comes from road hazards. This ranges from potholed rural roads to livestock running in front of cars and unroadworthy cars breaking down. When you plan you holiday to Swaziland, make sure you arrive in time to get to your destination before dark. Drive in daylight hours and keep to the speed limit and you shouldn’t have any problems. As with any other tourist destinations in Africa, practice common sense when travelling around Swaziland and avoid falling victim to tourist scams and petty crime. Be alert, don’t put yourself into threatening situations and don’t flash cash and expensive personal items. Areas to avoid in Swaziland include the downtown sections of Mbabane and Manzini. In particular, avoid the inner city areas and industrial areas after dark. Stick to the well-known tourist attractions in Swaziland and only venture into the remote rural areas if you’re part of a larger tour group. Hippos and crocodiles are found in certain rivers and lakes in Swaziland. They are extremely dangerous, unpredictable and highly territorial, particularly of their young. Always check if it’s safe to swim in a river or a dam in Swaziland. Kayaking, canoeing and other outdoor water sports are very popular in Swaziland but it’s advisable to only do this with a reputable tour operator who knows the rivers and lakes and where it’s safe and not safe in Swaziland. Swaziland has the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the world where 1 in 3 adults are infected. Avoid unprotected sexual intercourse at all cost and always insist on an HIV test if you develop a meaningful relationship with someone. Malaria is prevalent in the high-rainfall season on the eastern side of Swaziland; although these parts are considered to be low-risk malaria areas. Speak to your GP or a local travel clinic on advice regarding anti-malaria tablets and take the usual precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes. Beware of the risk of bilharzia which is present in streams that are downstream rural settlements. The people of Swaziland are renowned for being friendly, warm and welcoming. As a tourist in their country, you’re expected to show respect to them as individuals and to their customs and traditional beliefs. Swaziland is a predominantly Christian nation and when on holiday in Swaziland, you should dress modestly so you don’t offend anyone. SWAZILAND TOURISM

Swaziland is famous for its arts and craft markets, its spectacular game reserves, cultural heritage tours and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Swaziland tourism is all about wonderful wilderness safari tours, enjoying the stunning country surrounds and experiencing first-hand the warmth and hospitality of the Swazi people. Hlane Royal National Park is the largest game reserve in Swaziland and home to the Big 5 which includes elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard. Hlane means ‘wilderness’ in the SiSwati language. It’s a stunning destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. It’s one of the Top 5 places to visit in Swaziland and although it’s a lot smaller than the Kruger National Park in South Africa, it promises you a Swaziland holiday to remember for all the right reasons. After a few days spent at Hlane Royal National Park or one of the other beautiful nature reserves in Swaziland, make your way to the Ezulwini Valley and spend time exploring the area. It’s home to several popular craft markets which showcase incredible pieces produced by talented local craftsman. This includes the famous Swazi Candle factory and Ngwenya glass factory. The Swazi Candles Craft Market sells a vast collection of Swazi candles which are instantly recognised with their stunning colours and intricate designs. You’ll also pick up beautiful batik prints, handmade jewellery and carved wooden pieces which are perfect for your home or gifts for friends and family. Ngwenya Glass exhibits and sells a selection of beautiful signature glass works which you can pick up at wholesale prices and have shipped anywhere. It’s fascinating watching the glass blowing process from a viewing platform above the workshop. For an adrenalin rush, book a selection of outdoor activities which are supervised by a reputable outdoor adventure company that’s somewhat of an institution in Swaziland. White-water rafting down the Great Usutu River is just one of the many fun things to do on holiday in Swaziland. Swaziland tourism is intricately linked to the heart and soul of this warm, hospitable country and its people. A visit to Swaziland is not complete without a visit to one of the well-organised cultural village projects. The Mantenga Cultural Village is located in the lush Mantenga Falls Nature Reserve and offers visitors a fascinating insight into the cultural beliefs, customs and traditions of the Swazis. Swaziland is a comfortable 4 to 5-hour drive from Johannesburg so it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend or one-week stay. There’s so much to do and see in Swaziland that you’re guaranteed to return for more fun and adventures. COMMUNITY TOURISM IN SWAZILAND

Swaziland is rich in cultural heritage and this has given rise to a variety of community projects designed to boost tourism to the area and provide much-needed income for local communities. The Swaziland community projects are some of the best examples of community-based tourism in southern Africa. Nsangwini Rock Shelter

The Nsangwini Rock Shelter is the largest example of San rock art in the southern hemisphere and one of the most comprehensive displays in Swaziland. The rock art paintings are remarkably clear and provide a visual interpretation of the San way of life some 4 000 years ago. A mountain trail to the rock shelter is a steep climb but it’s manageable if you’re reasonably fit and wear good walking shoes. Nsangwini Rock Shelter is clearly signposted from the main Mbabane-Piggs Peak road and from the Maguga Dam road. Lonhlupheko Craft Market

The Lonhlupheko Craft Market is a community-based craft market where local vendors sell the best of Swazi craftmanship to visitors on holiday in Swaziland. It’s become a flagship project for joint community entrepreneurship in the area. A visit to the Lonhlupheko Craft Market also offers visitors a glimpse into the lives and character of the local Swazi people. Mahamba Gorge Lodge

Mahamba Gorge Lodge is located in the spectacular Mahamba Gorge which is renowned for its wonderful waterfalls, turbulent rapids and giant potholes scoured out of the watercourse beds, mountains and forests. It’s the perfect holiday destination in Swaziland if you love hiking, mountain biking and fishing or if you want absolute peace and tranquility. At Mahamba Gorge Lodge, you can experience firsthand the wonderful Swazi culture by participating in a cultural village tour and joining in on traditional music and dance evenings hosted by the friendly people who run the lodge in Swaziland. Mahamba Gorge Lodge is located close to the Mahamba border post. A good dirt road winds through the scenic rural area, passes the historic Mahamba Church before arriving at the lodge. Ntfungulu Hills & Ngwempisi Gorge

One of the most breathtakingly-beautiful areas of Swaziland is located an hour’s drive south of Mbabane. Driving through the fertile and magical Malkerns Valley to Mankayane, you’ll reach the Ngwempisi Gorge which was created by the Ngwempisi River slicing its way through the shale and sandstone of the Ntfungulu Hills. A popular thing to do in Swaziland in the same area is the 33-kilometre Ngwempisi Trail which was created and is managed by members of the local community. The Ngwempisi Trail winds through stunning woodlands, riverine forests and mountainous terrain and offers hikers panoramic vistas of the plateau as well as incredible sightings of woodland animals and birds. You can do short walks through the Ngwempisi Gorge and the more adventurous and hire a horse through Khelekhel Horse Trails and explore the beautiful natural surrounds on horseback. Swaziland accommodation in this area is delightful self-catering huts that overlook the Ngwempisi River. There are two camps, each sleeping up to 16 people. The accommodation and the activities are managed by the local community and is part of the Swaziland Tourism Authority’s plan to ensure tourism benefits all sectors of the Swazi population. Shewula Mountain Camp

Located in the Shewula Nature Reserve, the Shewula Mountain Camp straddles the 500-metre high Lubombo Mountains with a 100-kilometre panoramic view of Swaziland. The community-run mountain camp overlooks the magnificent Mbuluzi, Mlawula and Hlane game reserves. Shewula Mountain Camp is easy to get to in a regular car and is a mere 20-minute drive from the Lomahasha border. Things to do while staying in the mountain camp include a cultural tour of the local village where you can visit a sangoma (traditional tribal medicine-man), join in the Sibhaca dance or go for a beautiful hike down to the Mbuluzi River and gorge. Sibebe Rock Walking Tours

Sibebe Rock is the largest exposed granite pluton in the world and is second only in size to Ayers Rock in Australia. Located about 10 kilometres from Mbabane, it’s a popular tourist destination in Swaziland. A Sibebe Rock walking tour is a popular thing to do in Swaziland if you love the outdoors and are reasonably fit. Over and above that, the Sibebe area has earned itself a reputation for its incredible biodiversity and an outstanding birding destination. This includes sightings of the globally-threatened Blue swallow and the Ground woodpecker. You can choose one of a few guided walking trails that take you to the summit of Sibebe Rock; ranging from gentle to grueling. The view from the top is spectacular and there are a various caves you can explore as well as swimming holes and waterfalls to enjoy. Estimated to be about 3 billion years old, Sibebe Rock is more than three times older than Ayers Rock in Australia. Regardless, Sibebe Rock does not attract the crowds that its Aussie counterpart attracts each year. The walking tours at Sibebe Rock are run by local community members as part of Swaziland’s Community Tourism Programme. TOP 10 SWAZILAND TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Hlane Royal National Park The Hlane (meaning “Wilderness”) Royal National Park is home to the largest herds of game in the country and is one of the few places in Swaziland where visitors have a chance of seeing the Big 5 in Swaziland. Spanning some 22 000 hectares, Hlane Royal National Park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, excellent accommodation and fun outdoor activities. Lobamba Lobamba is the spiritual and cultural heart of Swaziland as well as home to Swaziland’s royal family. Located in the gorgeous Ezulwini Valley (also called “Valley of Heaven”), you’ll find the Lobamba Royal Village and Royal Kraal as well as the National Museum, the Parliament Building and other important historic buildings. Malolotja Nature Reserve The Malolotja Nature Reserve is a 18 000-hectare wilderness area that’s one of the largest protected areas in Swaziland. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers; and home to breeding pairs of endangered species such as the blue crane and bald ibis. The popular Treetop Canopy Tour funs through the Malolotja Nature Reserve. Mantenga Nature Reserve Mantenga Nature Reserve is located in the beautiful Ezulwini Valley and is home to the popular Mantenga Cultural Village. Another highlight is the magical Mantenga Falls which is the largest waterfall in Swaziland. The nature reserve is also a safe haven for a wide variety of game including serval and leopard. Mbuluzi Game Reserve Mbuluzi Game Reserve is a privately-owned reserve located on the banks of the Mlawula River. Guests enjoy rewarding wildlife experiences as well as incredible bird sightings. Mlawula Nature Reserve Mlawula Nature Reserve is a popular tourist destination in Swaziland and a favourite of nature lovers and hikers. It lies in a transitional zone that extends from the Lowveld up into the Lebombo Mountains. Strikingly beautiful, the Mlawula Nature Reserve is home to a wonderful selection of wildlife and 350 recorded bird species. The reserve borders the popular Hlane Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mbuluzi and Simunye nature reserves. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant conservation area and one of the most popular game reserves in Swaziland. It was established by the legendary Ted Reilly and his wife Elizabeth; turning their farm at Mlilwane into a pioneering game reserve with the support of the reigning king. The non-profit Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is over 4 500 hectares and home to an abundance of animals and over 400 recorded bird species. Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve The Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve is a strikingly-beautiful wilderness that’s renowned for its incredible biodiversity, cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers and a selection of scenic hiking trails. You’ll also find the luxury Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge in the nature reserve. Sibebe Rock Sibebe Rock is a granite mountain in Swaziland located a short 10-kilometre drive from the capital city Mbabane. It’s the second-largest monolith in the world and the largest exposed granite pluton, rising 350 metres above the valley of the Mbuluzi River. It’s also known as ‘Bald Rock’. If you are reasonably fit, you can climb to the top of Sibebe Rock. You’ll find a wonderland of sculpted boulders, granite slopes and hidden forest clefts as well as a selection of walking trails that lead to caves and waterfalls. Swazi Candles Centre Swaziland’s famous candles are known world-wide. They’re created using the ancient technique of ‘‘millifiore’ or ‘thousand flowers’. The Swazi candle factory is the epicenter of a bustling market which includes souvenir shops, the Yebo Art Gallery and the Sambane Tea Garden. After viewing the candle-making process and looking through the vast array of Swazi candles of display, pick up a few gifts for friends and family at home from Black Mamba, Baobab Batik, Amarasti, KwaziSwazi and Rosecraft. The other popular market in Swaziland is the Swazi Craft Market. This vibrant craft market is located in the heart of Mbabane at the south end of Allister Miller Street which is the main shopping street in the capital city. The city market is jam-packed with fresh produce, handmade products, traditional products, souvenirs and healing lotions and potions. THINGS TO DO IN SWAZILAND

Swaziland might be Africa’s smallest country but it’s a destination with a big heart. Explore the top Swaziland tourist attractions for rewarding wildlife encounters and extreme outdoor adventures and discover the beauty of its natural resources and people. A holiday to Swaziland is a wonderful combination of wildlife, adventures and colourful local culture. This beautiful country is renowned for its stunning landscapes, beautiful blue skies and wonderful wilderness areas. The Swazi people are known for their warmth and hospitality and rich cultural heritage. You’ll fall in love with this small endearing country the minute you cross over the border. BARBERTON MAKHONJWA GEOTRAIL

When you’re planning your Swaziland travel itinerary, it’s highly recommended you take a detour via Barberton to explore the Makhonjwa Geotrail. This is a 40 kilometer self-drive, interpretive route along the R40 which takes you from the town of Barberton to the quiet . Along the way there are 11 developed geosites; all with well-designed plaques crammed with interesting information about the geology, the wildlife, the history and the culture of the area. Bulembu is the closest Swaziland border post to Barberton and the Geotrail takes you right up to the gates. However, the drive over the escarpment to Piggs Peak on the Swaziland is not suitable for sedans and should only be taken in a 4×4 vehicle. More about the Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail Source: https://geotrail.co.za/ Tucked away in the most ancient corner of our land against South Africa’s border with the Kingdom of Swaziland lies a hidden and spectacularly scenic wilderness of immense geological importance. This is the Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail that was developed over a long period of time to preserve this geological heritage region. The Barberton Greenstone Belt is the best-preserved example of a 350 million year sequence of Archaean Earth rocks; the Barberton Supergroup. These staggeringly ancient volcanic and sedimentary rocks are a unique record of Archaean Earth between about 3.2 and 3.57 billion years ago. The ancient rocks are a record of cataclysmic volcanic activity, a boundless ocean, racing tides, immense asteroid impacts and the birth of the first continent; the Kaapvaal craton. They are regarded as some of, or perhaps even the earliest, life on Earth. Although rocks of similar age and even older are known from other parts of the world, none combines the outstanding and diverse characteristics of the Barberton Greenstone Belt. The Barberton Makhonjwa mountains of the Barberton Greenstone Belt are now on the tentative list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site programme. The geotrail uses richly-illustrated panels that draw aside the curtains of arcane geological communication, and reveal the significance of the Barberton Greenstone Belt in every-day language and concepts. The Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail takes you on a journey into the mists of an impossibly distant past; more than 3 billion years ago. EarthCacheing EarthCacheing is a free, real-world outdoor treasure hunt. Players locate, using a GPS or Smartphone, and visit a unique geoscience feature or aspect of the Earth, and then share the experience on line. The most exciting way to learn about the Earth and its processes is to get into the outdoors and experience it first-hand. The Geological Society of America (GSA) administers the listing of EarthCache sites around the world. The Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail is one of the world’s “must see” EarthCaches. EZULWINI VALLEY

Most people on holiday in Swaziland find themselves in the Ezulwini Valley where many of the main Swaziland attractions and activities are located. Also known as the ‘Valley of Heaven’, Ezulwini Valley stretches some 30 kilometres and is flanked to the east by the Mdzimba hills. Lobamba – the historical capital of Swaziland – is located in the valley. It’s also known as the Royal Valley as it’s home to the royal family of Swaziland. You’ll also find a number of wonderful wildlife reserves in Ezulwini Valley including the stunning 4 500-hectare Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary which was established in 1964. Swaziland’s most famous tourist attraction, the Royal Swazi Spa, is located in Ezulwini Valley as well as the Gables Shopping Centre, Ezulwini Handicrafts Centre and the Swazi National Museum in Lobamba. Ezulwini Valley in Swaziland is spectacular with verdant landscapes made up of soft green hills and lush tropical vegetation. The valley is undergoing significant urban development but its still renowned for its incredible natural beauty. HAWANE NATURE RESERVE

Hawane Nature Reserve is located close to Mbabane. It was first established in 1978 to protect and area of marsh along the Mbuluzi River which is the natural habitat of the Kniphofia umbrina, a rare red hot poker plant which is endemic to Swaziland. The protected reserve was expanded when the Hawane dam was built in 1988 to protect more of the surrounding wetlands. The reserve is managed by the Swaziland National Trust Commission. The main attraction is its prolific birdlife as well as a guided bush trail which is designed for avid bird watches. Birds to spot in the Hawane Nature Reserve include the lanner falcon, Egyptian goose, pied kingfisher and white-faced whistling duck. HLANE ROYAL NATIONAL PARK

Hlane Royal National Park is the largest protected wildlife area in Swaziland which, combined with neighbouring parks, makes up an expanse of bushveld known as the Lubombo Conservancy. The Hlane Royal National Park is held in trust for the nation by His Majesty King Mswati II. What makes Hlane Royal National Park special is it’s home to the largest herds of game in the country. Spanning some 30 000 hectares, the bushveld is dominated by ancient hardwood vegetation and is home to lion, elephant and white rhino. It’s also renowned for its incredible birdlife which includes the highest density of nesting white-backed vultures in Africa. Accommodation in Hlane Royal National Park consists of a main rest camp called Ndlovu Camp and a selection of self-catering chalets at a site called Bhubesi. There is also the option of remote campsites which you can only get to with a 4×4 vehicle. There is no electricity at Ndlovu Camp at Hlane Royal National Park; everything runs on gas and paraffin. Bhubesi Camp has electricity and is suited more for a self-catering holiday in Swaziland because of its distance from the restaurant at Ndlovu Camp. There is a good restaurant at Hlane Royal National Park and a game viewing deck where you can watch a constant stream of animals visiting a permanent waterhole. A popular activity at Hlane Royal National Park is a guided walking safari led by an experienced Swazi field guide. In addition to the popular safari tour in open safari vehicles, the guided bush walks at Hlane Royal National Park are hugely popular. They’re conducted outside the endangered species area and take visitors on a wonderful route through the beautiful bushveld surrounds. The royal reserve recently introduced the Mahlindza Dam Walk which circumnavigates the largest and busiest water source on Hlane. MALANDELA’S CENTRE

Malandela’s Centre is an awesome entertainment and cultural hub that was set up in the early 1960s by Peter and Jenny Thorne in the beautiful valley of Malkerns. Peter was given the Swazi name “Malandela” which means ‘the follower’ by the Swazi people in the area and his farm became known as Malandela’s. Today, the small craft shop that Jenny started is a bustling business centre and a popular tourist attraction. You can enjoy a delicious meal at Malandela’s Pub & Restaurant that Peter built using the red earth from the Swazi bushveld surrounds as well as traditional Swazi construction techniques. The infamous House on Fire arts venue was created and the annual MTN Bushveld Festival of Arts was launched a few years later. House on Fire is one of the most eclectic entertainment venues in southern Africa and hosts a number of large-scale performance as well as customised events and private functions. The venue attracts top performers both regionally and globally who bring an assorted mix of music, theatre and dance to Swaziland. Other interesting attractions at Malandela’s Centre includes the aloe and succulent gardens which showcase the diversity and beauty of Swaziland’s rich floral kingdom; and an indigenous nursery where local trees and plants are propagated from seed and used to reforest areas of Swaziland as part of a tree planting initiative linked to the MTN Bushfire music and arts festival. The MTN Bushfire festival is one of the top festivals in southern Africa and draws a massive crowd of loyal followers each year. It’s a celebration of the human spirit and everyone is invited to contribute to social change and engage through a programme of creative workshops, discussions, art exhibitions and guest speakers. MALOLOTJA NATURE RESERVE

The protected Malolotja Nature Reserve is home to a wonderful variety of animals and birds including rare species such as the forest canary and ground woodpecker. It’s also famous for its spectacular display of wildflowers in spring. A hugely popular activity in the reserve is the Malolotja Canopy Tur which offers visitors a 3-hour excursion through some of the most dramatic scenery in Swaziland. You’ll encounter striking rock formations, towering cliff faces and spectacular views as you make your way through the lush forest canopy towards the Malolotja Mountain peaks. Experience the thrill of gliding through the forest canopy of one of the last mountain wilderness areas left in Swaziland. Set within the forested Sihlotswane gorge, adjacent to the famous Malolotja Falls, the Canopy Tour consists of 11 elevated forest platforms, 10 slides and a 50 metre long suspension bridge that crosses the Majolomba River. Malolotja Nature Reserve is located 40 kilometres north of Mbabane. The Malolotja Canopy Tour operates 7-days a week but you need to book a canopy tour in advance. MKHAYA GAME RESERVE

Mkhaya Game Reserve lies in the southeast corner of Swaziland and offers visitors a unique wildlife experience. You have the best chance of seeing black rhino in the wild at Mkhaya Game Reserve as the protected area is Swaziland’s sanctuary for endangered species. Mkhaya has been assisted with generous grants and support from the World Wide Fund for Nature, the SA Nature Foundation, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Dr Anton Rupert, HRH Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands, the Prettejohn family of Ngwenya Glass, The European Union, Rhino Rescue Trust of Great Britain, Netherlands Rhino Foundation, Corrine Itten, Lowry Park Zoo, San Diego Zoo and many others. Named after the indigenous Acacia tree that is prolific in the region, ‘Mkhaya’ also means ‘home’ in the local siSwati language. The name is derived from the fact that the valuable Acacia hardwood is the chosen tree for structural building in Swaziland. Knobthorn trunks have been incorporated in some of Stone Camp’s structures. The Mkhaya Game Reserve actually started on a different course when it was set up for the conservation and protection of Swaziland’s beautiful Nguni cattle. Thereafter, Mkhaya Game Reserve realised its vision to nurture and breed other threatened and endangered species. Mkhaya is now home to Swaziland’s only buffalo, black rhino, sable antelope, Livingstone’s eland and tsessebe populations. There is an abundance of antelope in the game reserve and the bird life is stunning. A trip to Mkhaya Game Reserve is an authentic African experience and an opportunity to contribute to the protection and conservation of our precious endangered wildlife. It’s an award-winning tourist destination in Swaziland and highly recommended by most online wildlife travel specialists. Accommodation at Mkhaya Game Reserve is a unique camp called Stone Camp that’s laid out along a dry riverbed in a lush riverine forest. Units sleep between 2 to 6 people. Another delightful facility at Mkhaya Game Reserve is Kirky’s Hide which offers guests an incredible viewing site overlooking a busy pan. An endless stream of animals and birds come to the waterhole and you’re likely to see a bit of action between predators and antelope. Kirky’s Hide is named in honour of Howard Douglas Kirk who was a gifted wildlife documentary film-maker, tragically killed in a car accident on his way to film a documentary on St Lucia’s wetlands. His talent and bravery are evident in the successful documentary “Jezebel” which is a record of Swaziland’s nature conservation programmes. There are a number of activities the whole family can enjoy at Mkhaya Game Reserve on a Swaziland trip; including daily game drives and guided walking safaris. MANZINI

Manzini is a province of Swaziland located in the western region of the country and at the southern end of the Ezulwini Valley. Its capital town, also called Manzini, serves as the administrative centre of the province. Home to about 300 000 residences, Manzini is the commercial hub of Swaziland. Manzini originally served as the Boer capital in 1890 but when the British took over rule of Swaziland, they moved the capital to Mbabane which was a cooler region. Swaziland’s only international airport is located a short 8-kilometre drive from the centre of town. The Royal town of Lobamba is located close by. It’s home to the National Museum, the Embo State Palace and the Houses of Parliament. It’s considered to be the cultural and royal centre of Swaziland. MBABANE

Mbabane is the capital city of Swaziland although the parliament complex and the Royal compound is located in Lobamba. The pretty city is surrounded by the Mdimba Mountains and is the gateway to the main attractions in the Ezulwini Valley as well as popular tourist hotspots such as Sibebe Rock, Mantenga Nature Reserve and the Swazi Cultural Village. Swazi Plaza is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in Mbabane. You’ll find a good variety of restaurants and shops as well as the main Swaziland banks. The nightlife in Mbabane is great with an excellent selection of restaurants, bars, casinos and nightclubs in the city to keep you entertained. Mbabane was founded in 1887 by Mickey Wells on the spot where the Transvaal-to-Mozambique route crossed the Mbabane river. It was declared the capital of the new Protectorate of Swaziland in 1902. During this time, Mbabane consisted of a few shops, churches and schools founded by white settlers. Black Africans were not allowed to live in the town and had to reside in nearby rural districts. The town grew after the nation’s administrative centre moved from Bremersdorp (now called Manzini) in 1902. By the 1930s, Mbabane had electricity, running water, telephone connection and a hospital. It derives its name from Chief Mbabane Kunene who lived in the area when British settlers arrived. There is a range of accommodation in Mbabane to suit different budgets but the most popular options are the Mountain Inn, Foresters Arms Hotel and the legendary Royal Swazi Spa in the Ezulwini Valley. Mbabane’s closest border crossing to South Africa is Ngwenya-Oshoek. MBULUZI GAME RESERVE

The Mbuluzi Game Reserve in Swaziland is a private conservancy at the foothills of the Lubombo Mountains. It’s popular as a hiking destination and well-known for its well-marked hiking trails that lead to magical rocky outcrops, dense forests and marshy riverbanks. It’s home to an abundance of antelope and over 300 bird species which includes the elusive Pels fishing owl, dwarf bittern, narina trogon, African finfoot and crested guinea fowl. Mbuluzi Game Reserve is bound by the beautiful Mbuluzi River and the Lubombo mountain range in the east. It’s renowned for its incredible biodiversity which can be explored on foot as there are no dangerous predators in the game reserve apart from leopards that pass through the mountainous region. The reserve is crossed by two meandering perennial rivers; the Mlawula and the Mbuluzi rivers which boast healthy populations of yellowfish, barbel and bream. Mbuluzi Game Reserve is a dream location for avid birdwatchers and fly-fishing enthusiasts. Activities at Mbuluzi Game Reserve included guided hikes, birding, mountain biking, fishing and game viewing. The popular Swazi 3 Reserves MTB Classic is held each year in September which sees riders tackling challenging courses through 3 of Swaziland’s game reserves, including Mbuluzi Game Reserve. Looking for accommodation in Swaziland? There are 7 high-quality lodges in the Mbuluzi Game Reserve which offer a variety of features and activities: Nkhankanka Lodge; overlooks the Mlawula River Leadwood Lodge; tucked away in the pristine Mbuluzi river forest Imfihlo Lodge; a beautiful bushveld retreat overlooking the Mbuluzi River Mphangele Lodge; an intimate family-style lodge on the banks of the Mlawula River Singwe Lodge; a stunning private lodge in Swaziland situated on the magical Mlawula River Tambuti Tented Lodge; tucked away in a grove of Tambuti trees on the Mlawula River Mbuluzi Tented Lodge; situated on the banks of the Mlawula River overlooking steep cliffs MALOLOTJA CANOPY TOURS

The Malolotja Canopy Tour promises some of the most dramatic scenery you’ll find in the country and enough adrenalin-inducing activities to kick-start a Boeing. The Malolotja Mountains peaks are renowned for their striking rock formations, towering cliff faces and panoramic views. You’ll also discover a magical place which is rich in fauna and flora in what is one of the last mountain wilderness areas left in Swaziland. The Malolotja Canopy Tours operate 7-days a week and you need to book in advance. The canopy tour takes about 3 hours and includes refreshments and a light lunch at the end of the canopy tour. MANTENGA CRAFT & LIFESTYLE CENTRE

The Mantenga Craft & Lifestyle Centre is an iconic arts and craft hub located in the famous Ezulwini Valley. It was originally developed as an foreign aid project to develop handicraft skills in Swaziland but today, it’s a successful business centre and home to a wide range of skilled entrepreneurs selling their authentic Swazi crafts. The Mantenga craft centre is also the home base for the Ezulwini Tourist Office and Swazi Trails. The Swaziland tourist office helps visitors find accommodation in Swaziland and gives advice on what to do in Swaziland as well as helps with booking Swaziland tours. Swazi Trials is an iconic outdoor adventure company that has been operating in the region for many years; offering adrenalin-filled adventures ranging from white-water rafting and caving to quad biking, canopy tours, mountain biking and so much more. Mantenga Craft & Lifestyle Centre is open 7 days a week form 08h00 to 17h00. It’s the gateway to popular tourist attractions in the Ezulwini Valley which includes Mantenga Lodge, Yebo Art Gallery, the Swazi Cultural Village and Mantenga Nature Reserve. MLILWANE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the picturesque Ezulwini Valley in central Swaziland, just south of the city of Mbabane. It’s home to a wide array of antelope and other general game and some 300 recorded bird species. The wildlife sanctuary in Swaziland forms part of a pioneering conservation area which was once a highly profitable multi-purpose farm that was proclaimed in 1961 and re-established as a popular eco-tourism destination in Swaziland. The name ‘Mlilwane’ means ‘Little Fire’ in siSwati and was so named because of the many fires that started because of lightening strikes on the Mlilwane Hill. Several trails and tracks suitable for horses run up Nyonyane Mountain to the craggy summit known as Execution Rock. The Nyakato viewpoint overlooks Mantenga waterfall and the Usushwana Valley below. Mlilwane’s diverse habitats support a surprisingly extensive species list. You can enjoy numerous guided or self-guided routes within the 4 560 hectare sanctuary which are perfectly safe because there are no dangerous predators in the nature reserve. The southern plains stretch to the striking Nyonyane Mountain (Execution Rock) with its exposed granite peak. Tourism is concentrated in this southern section of the park while guided Chubeka Trails explore the northern section as far as Luphohlo Peak. Accommodation at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a range of affordable self-catering accommodation at the Mlilwane Rest Camp. You also have the choice of Sondzela Backpackers Lodge and the 5-star Reilly’s Rock Hilltop Lodge. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary offers an array of activities and adventures which range from self-drive or guided game drives to mountain biking, horse riding and guided bush walks. There’s also an open Interpretation Centre that showcases the rich natural heritage of Swaziland and the story behind the establishment of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Something special to do while staying at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is the Umphakatsi Cultural Experience or the Esitjeni Village Walk. NGWENYA GLASS COMPLEX

Ngwenya Glass Complex is one of Swaziland’s hottest tourist attractions. The complex is a hub of unique boutique shops which showcase a fine selection of Swaziland handcrafted products ranging from Sheba weaving to African gourmet food products, clothing and accessories and handcrafted bags and batiks. It’s the best of local talent found under one roof. At the Swaziland glass factory you also have the opportunity to watch the master glassblowers creating beautiful glasswork from the comfort of the overhead balcony. Each piece of glass artwork is created using 100% recycled glass. Located in a beautiful indigenous garden, you can enjoy a light lunch and beverages at the coffee shop at the Swaziland glass factory while your children play safely at the play park. Ngwenya Glass is an iconic feature of Swaziland and worth a visit. NSANGWINI ROCK ART SHELTER

Rock paintings that are believed to have been painted by the San (Bushmen tribe) are found throughout Swaziland but are particularly prominent in the western highveld granite areas. They’re similar in subject matter, style and colouring as rock art found in the Drakensberg and Lesotho. Discover the rock art of Swaziland with a visit to Nsangwini Rock Art Shelter which is the largest collection of rock art paintings in the country and one of only two sites open to the public. The other is the Sandlane Rock Paintings which are located about 1 kilometre from the Sandlane border post. The Nsangwini site was discovered in 1958 and is famous for one feature piece which is regarded as extremely unusual; namely two winged figures in dark red monochrome which stand out because of their clarity of detail on a panel separated by a crack in the rock from the rest of the painting surface. The Nsangwini site is believed to be a possible rain-making centre. All profits from the Nsangwini Rock Art Shelter project are put back into the community to support AIDs orphans. PIGGS PEAK

Piggs Peak is a town in north-western Swaziland. It was founded during the gold prospecting era in the early 1880s but its main industry today is forestry. Two popular Swaziland tourist attractions in the Piggs Peak area are the Phophonyane Falls and the Orion Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino. The Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve is a scenic 600-hectare nature reserve that’s hugely popular with outdoor enthusiasts. An intricate network of walking trails lead visitors through the Gobolondlo forest to the 80-metre high Phophonyane Falls. The magical waterfall has formed on a steep section of exposed gneiss. Some of the oldest rock in the world is found exposed at the waterfall; dating back some 3.5 billion years. Orion Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino is located in a beautiful pine forest and the hotel itself is surrounded by a lush manicured lawn. It’s the perfect destination in Swaziland for a romantic honeymoon, family holiday or corporate getaway. Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino and a popular arts and crafts centre is located 30 kilometres from Jeppes Reef/Matsamo Border leading to the Kruger National Park. A popular stop-off on a Swaziland trip is the Coral Stephens Handweaving Studio at Peak Fine Craft Centre. The shop is stocked with a wide range of homemade, woven products ranging from blankets and carpets to carpets, cushion covers and tableware. You can go on a tour of the weaving studio and watch the skilled weavers working on beautiful pieces. You’ll also find a range of other interesting shops at Peak Fine Craft Centre which sell beautiful products made by Swazi crafters. This includes work form Tintsaba which exhibits its wares at the World Craft Fair in Sante Fe, USA. Monique Wilson Pottery designed and created by a local ceramicist offers handmade painted tiles and a range of exquisite crockery. SWAZILAND POTHOLES

Swaziland’s famous potholes are found in one of the most beautiful natural areas in Swaziland. The natural rock formation is found deep in the heart of the Malalotja Nature Reserve and is quite difficult to find without the help of a trusty Swazi guide. The Potholes are a series of giant round pools of water that are surrounded on all sides by smooth stone. There are four in total, with water cascading from one pothole to the next. Spend a day at the potholes swimming, climbing up the smooth rock faces and leaping from terrifying heights into the water below. You can also go on a guided hike in the area. SIBEBE ROCK

Sibede Rock is the second-largest exposed granite dome in the world. The largest is Uluru in Australia. Estimated to be over 3 billion years old, Sibede Rock is one of the most rewarding Swaziland tourist attractions although, surprisingly, it doesn’t suffer from tourist overcrowding. A guided hikes to the summit of Sibede Rock are run by local community members and can be booked through a reputable tour operator such as Swazi Trials. It’s not recommended you visit this remote location on your own. SWAZI CULTURAL VILLAGE

One of the popular things to do in Swaziland is a day tour to a traditional Swazi village. It’s an opportunity to experience firsthand the vibrant Swazi cultural heritage including their language, rituals, dance, music, folklore and arts and crafts. The Swazi Cultural Village at Mantenga Nature Reserve is the best place to visit on a holiday to Swaziland if you’re interested in developing a deeper understand of the Swazi people and their cultural heritage. The cultural visit is a living museum of old traditions and created to represent a classical Swazi lifestyle during the 1850s. Everything from the building material used, traditional dress and cooking and living arrangements are authentically Swazi. The official name of the Swazi Cultural Village at Mantenga Nature Reserve given by his Majesty King Mswati III is “Ligugu Lemaswati” which means “The pride of the Swazi People”. On entry, the village people, wearing traditional clothing warmly welcome you. The standard Swazi greeting to the family is “Yebo Nkosi”. The village life is vibrant and energetic. Your guide will talk you through how the huts and traditional items are made, teach you a few common Siswati words and encourage interaction which could include grinding maize, plaiting mountain grass or joining in the Swazi song and dance routines. Something fun to do in Swaziland is sample the traditional Swazi food and their homebrewed beer. The overall experience at the Swazi Cultural Village is highly informative and memorable and provides visitors with a true taste of Swazi hospitality. The Swazi Cultural Village n Mantenga Nature Reserve is open to visitors every day from 8h00 to 17h00. Mantenga Cultural Village is the only tourist facility in Swaziland with its own fully-fledged permanent troupe. There are two performances each day: 11h30 and 15h15. The group can also be booked for private and additional performances. SWAZILAND CANDLE CENTRE

Swaziland is famous for its colourful Swazi candles and you’ll find them at the Swaziland Candle Centre in the Ezulwini Valley. This is one of the most popular tourist stopovers in Swaziland and is open 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm. The Swazi Candle factory employs over 200 local people who are trained in an ancient candle-making technique known as ‘millifiore’ or ‘thousand flowers’. Swazi Candles has grown from humble beginnings in an old dairy cowshed to exporting their beautiful products around the world and attracting thousands of Swaziland tourists each year. The Swazi candle factory is the epicenter of a bustling market which includes souvenir shops, the Yebo Art Gallery and the Sambane Tea Garden. After viewing the candle-making process and looking through the vast array of Swazi candles of display, pick up a few gifts for friends and family at home from Black Mamba, Baobab Batik, Amarasti, KwaziSwazi and Rosecraft. SWAZI TRAILS ADVENTURE

Swazi Trails is a popular outdoor adventure company that has been operating in the country for many years. They offer an unbelievable selection of adventure activities as well as fascinating cultural tours and the Southern and Northern Highlights tours designed to show off Swaziland’s tourist hotspots. Another popular thing to do through Swazi Trails is the Taste of Swaziland tour which is a customised cultural interaction tour that introduces visitors to the local Swazi traditions, music and dance and cuisine of Swaziland. Swazi Trails also offers Big 5 safari tours to game reserves in Swaziland, including Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve. Top of the list of ‘best things to do in Swaziland’ with Swazi Trails is white-water rafting on the Great Usutu River; adventure caving at the incredible Gobholo Caves, quad bike and mountain bike trails in various areas such as the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and guided hikes to the summit of Sibebe Rock and the Rock of Execution. Established in 1987, Swazi Trails is a fully insured, properly licensed and reputable tour operator offering the best experiences in Swaziland. SWAZILAND ACCOMMODATION

Swaziland is a small country and it’s easy to get to any place you staying at in a half-day drive. The more popular and sought-after hotels in Swaziland are found in the Ezulwini Valley between the two major cities of Mbabane and Manzini. These Swaziland hotels and guest lodges are conveniently located close to the main tourist attractions and a comfortable drive to the popular game reserves in Swaziland. Accommodation in Swaziland ranges from 5-star luxury safari lodges in the premier game reserves and cities to large resort complexes, quaint country guest houses and affordable backpacking lodges. Royal Swazi Spa Hotel

The Royal Swazi Spa is probably the best known hotel in Swaziland and is somewhat of an iconic institution in the Ezulwini Valley. Built in 1965, it’s the grand old lady of Swaziland tourism. The resort is owned and operated by Sun International and is made up of three hotels. The Royal Swazi Sun serves as the regal flagship hotel of the Kingdom of Swaziland whilst the Caribbean-style Ezulwini Sun is more laid back and has an informal atmosphere. The Lugogo Sun attracts both tour groups and families to the beautiful and tranquil valley. The three hotels in Swaziland are a minute’s drive from each other which makes the Royal Swazi resort an ideal destination in Swaziland to host large events such as international conventions, banquets, weddings and international golf championships. The Swaziland hotels are set in lush, tranquil gardens and are surrounded by beautiful mountainous surrounds. Playing on the theme of ‘accommodation fit for royalty’, the Royal Swazi Spa Hotel exudes elegance and graciousness. The hotel features are luxurious and the gardens are beautifully manicured. Activities on offer at the Swazi spa resort range from a world-class golf course to the legendary spa centre and popular casino. What makes the Royal Swazi Spa resort so popular is it’s ideally situated close to the major attractions in the Ezulwini Valley. From the Royal Swazi Spa, you’re a comfortable drive from the capital city of Mbabane, a selection of excellent game and nature reserves and the Swazi Candle Centre as well as the areas Swazi Trails takes people to for white-water rafting, adventure caving, mountain biking and quad trails. Foresters Arms Hotel

The historic Foresters Arms Hotel is located in wonderful mountain countryside; a pleasant 15-minute drive from Mbabane. The view is outstanding and the accommodation is clean and comfortable. What makes Foresters Arms so popular is its delicious food which includes the famous Foresters Sunday lunch. Malandela’s Guest House

Malandela’s Guest House was named the “Best Guest House” in Eswatini in the 2017 Tourism awards. It’s located at the popular Malandela’s Centre and offers guests the choice of 8 unique ensuite rooms set in a beautiful indigenous garden. The guests house is a short walk from the heart of Malandela’s centre and the popular Farmhouse Restaurant & Country Pub which is open 7 days a week. It’s the ideal place to stay in Swaziland if you’re a family with young children. They’ll love exploring the gorgeous gardens which includes dramatic sculptured towers and a stone horse carousel. Mountain Inn

Mountain Inn is a family-run establishment that has served the business and leisure industry in Swaziland for many years. It’s located a short 4-kilometre drive from the centre of Mbabane and is a popular choice for business executives. This fine Swaziland hotel is situated almost 500 metres above the valley floor so the views are stunning. It’s also conveniently located to the centre of Mbabane and the main attractions in the Ezulwini Valley as well as a selection of outstanding game reserves in the Swaziland region. Friar Tuck is the inhouse restaurant and renowned for its quality cuisine, gorgeous pool terrace and fantastic atmosphere. The art and craft markets of Ezulwini Valley and Malkerns are a short drive from Mountain Inn. Nkonyeni Lodge & Golf Estate

Surrounded by a stunning mountain range, Nkonyeni Lodge & Golf Estate is located in a 400-hectare game reserve which overlooks the Great Usuthu River. It boasts a world-class 18-hole championship golf course as well as a gorgeous spa treatment centre. Luxury thatched chalets lie nestled in beautiful bushveld surrounds. The Nkonyeni Adventure offers a wide range of outdoor activities ranging from horse riding and mountain biking to game drives, clay pigeon shooting and river tubing. Orion Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino

Orion Piggs Peak Hotel and Casino is another legendary hotel located in the iconic Piggs Peak region. The main attraction is the casino which attracts locals and visitors with a selection of gaming tables that include a mix of Blackjack, roulette, extreme roulette and stud poker as well as many great slot machines. The Orion Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino hosts the All Africa Tournament which is an internationally recognised poker tournament with participating poker celebrities from all around the world. The All Africa Tournament is very popular and receives 24/7 television coverage which is screened on the All Africa Poker DStv channel. Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge

Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge is nestled in a lush indigenous forest with a dramatic mountain backdrop; in northwest Swaziland close to the iconic Phophonyane Falls. It’s a gorgeous Swaziland travel destination for the discerning traveller and nature lovers seeking a romantic and revitalising retreat in a setting of stunning natural beauty. The motto of Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge is “Peace, Privacy, Paradise”. Sleeping a maximum of 28 people, guests have the choice of luxury beehive huts with spectacular views; a selection of well-equipped self-catering cottages in a large private garden that faces onto the rugged Gobolondo Mountain; or safari tents tucked away in the natural forest above the river. The Driftwood Restaurant offers a diverse menu and an extensive list of quality wines. The luxury ecolodge is located in the Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve which in turn falls within the Barberton Centre of Plant Endemism. The centre was set up to protect the rich biodiversity of the increasingly threatened ‘middleveld’ habitat. Besides its rich botanical diversity, the 600 hectare reserve is home to a remarkable 240 recorded species of birds and some of the world’s most interesting geological features. You’ll hear the mystical hoot of the scarlet and emerald feathered narina trogon on one of the many wonderful waking trails in the forest and see a selection of shy mountain antelope. The Phophonyane waterfall itself cascades over what is regarded as the world’s oldest rocks; dating back some 3.6 million years. Summerfield Luxury Resort & Botanical Garden

Summerfield Luxury Resort offers 5-stary luxury accommodation in Swaziland for the high-end traveller in the breathtakingly-beautiful Summerfield Botanical Gardens. It’s a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel that’s an elegant and enchanting retreat. The award-winning hotel in Swaziland is ideally located close to the main attractions in the Ezulwini Valley yet far enough from the crowds to offer guests complete peace and tranquility. Accommodation at the Summerfield Luxury Resort is refined and sophisticated and unashameably marketed to the discerning Swaziland traveller. The 100-hectare Summerhill Botanical Gardens features lakes and cascading waterfalls as well as floral exhibits of rare, indigenous, tropical and exotic plant species. A feature of the beautiful garden is a rare pre-historic cycad plant. The magical botanical gardens in Swaziland lie on the banks of the Bobokazi River which flows through the Nokwane Valley. The area is renowned for its scenic beauty, spectacular rock formations and majestic mountain range. Summerfield Luxury Resort & Botanical Gardens is located on the outskirts of Manzini. It’s ideally situated within easy driving distance of the Mlilwane Game Reserve, Swazi Candle Factory, King Sobhuza Memorial Monument, Swaziland National Museum, Swazi Cultural Village and National Handicraft Market. TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR SWAZILAND

SWAZILAND WEATHER

Swaziland weather is divided into two main seasons: May to October: cooler, dry season (winter months) November to April: hot, rainy season (summer months) The highest rainfall in Swaziland is experienced in the months of December to March. The coolest weather in Swaziland is in the winter months of June to August. The days are warm and clear but the evenings are a lot cooler. BEST TIME TO VISIT SWAZILAND

Swaziland enjoys a wonderful sub-tropical climate and is a year-round destination. However, if you’re visiting for a safari tour of the beautiful game reserves in Swaziland, it’s best to visit in between May to September during the dry winter period when the grass is thinner and the game tends to congregate close to permanent water sources. Between October and April, Swaziland is gloriously green and beautiful. If you love the outdoors and interested in the country’s incredible fauna and flora, the warm summer months are perfect for a Swaziland holiday. HOW TO GET TO SWAZILAND

Swaziland is neighbours with South Africa and Mozambique and it’s relatively easy to get to Swaziland if you’re travelling from Johannesburg or Pretoria. BY PLANE

King Mswati III International Airport is the main airport in Swaziland; located on the outskirts of the town of Manzini. The Swaziland airport is an hour’s drive from the capital city of Mbabane. King Mswati III International Airport was originally named Sikhuphe International Airport. It has replaced Matsapha Airport as the only international airport in Swaziland accepting commercial flights and is designed to handle 360,000 passengers per year. Airlink Swaziland offers daily direct flights from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to King Mswati III International Airport in Swaziland. BY CAR

The drive from Johannesburg to the main Swaziland borders ranges from 4 to 5 hours, with stops for refreshments. It’s a comfortable drive on excellent roads that take you from the highveld down into the lush fertile valleys of the Lowveld. There are 11 Swaziland border posts to choose from when planning your Swaziland holiday. Oshoek border post is the most accessible for anyone travelling from Gauteng. The Oshoek border post gets very busy over long weekends and the holiday season so as an alternative you can use Jeppe’s Reef (close to the Kruger Park) or Josefsdal (close to Barberton). If you’re coming from Kwa-Zulu Natal; use Golela (from Durban) and Houtkop (from the Drakensberg) border posts. The Mahamba border post is convenient if you’re driving to Swaziland via Piet Retief. If you’re a South African citizen, all you need to cross the Swaziland border is your passport and cash to pay the road tax for an ordinary vehicle. SWAZILAND BORDER POSTS

The following is a list of the Swaziland border posts and the hours they are open: South Africa/Swaziland border post: Oshoek/Ngwenya 07h00-24h00 Nerston/Sandlane 08h00-18h00 Emhlathin/Sicunusa 08h00-18h00 Bothashoop/Gege 08h00-16h00 Mahamba/Mahamba 07h00-22h00 Onverwacht/Salitje 07h00-18h00 Golela/Lavumisa 07h00-22h00 Bordergate/Mananga 07h00-18h00 Jeppe’s Reef/Matsamo 07h00-22h00 Jossefdal/Bulembu 08h00-16h00 Namaacha/Lomahasha 07h00-20h00 Mhlumeni/Goba 24 hours

SOUTH AFRICAN BORDER CROSSING ESSENTIALS

Passport and visas requirements for Swaziland South African passport holders resident to South Africa do not require a visa to visit Swaziland as well as Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho. Driver’s License The South African driver’s license is recognised in Swaziland as well as Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho. International Driver’s Permit Although not compulsory this is recommended for everyone driving in foreign countries. ZA Sticker If you’re travelling from South Africa across the Swaziland borders, you vehicle should bear a ZA sticker which designates that it is a foreign vehicle from South Africa. AA Accredited Sales Agent stores and outdoor retailers will have them available for purchase. Vehicle Registration/Vehicle License Papers A certified copy of vehicle registration/vehicle license papers is acceptable at the Swaziland border posts. The papers must be accompanied with a letter from the bank giving you authorisation to take the vehicle across the border and must indicate dates. Both the bank letter and license papers should be signed by a Commissioner of Oaths. If you are not the registered owner of the vehicle, please carry an affidavit from the police giving you authorisation from the financial institution/owner to take the vehicle abroad. Letter of authority If you are travelling in a rented car or 4×4 across the Swaziland border from South Africa, you have to have a letter from the rental company giving you permission to take the vehicle out of the country. You do not need police clearance for this. GETTING AROUND SWAZILAND

Public transport such a commercial buses and minibuses are not recommended for Swaziland travellers coming from South Africa or overseas. The safest option is using your own vehicle in Swaziland or hiring a car from the international airport. Travel is very difficult after dark if you don’t have your own car. The only option is by taxi. If staying around Mbabane or Manzini, keep the phone number of a reputable taxi operator that you can call after the sun goes down. Be warned; taxi drivers in Swaziland tend to overcharge foreign travellers. HEALTH WARNINGS FOR SWAZILAND

In general, Swaziland is a safe place to visit in terms of tropical and infectious diseases. Much of the country lies at an altitude that’s high enough that the common tropical diseases are not a problem. The main concern is the high prevalence of AIDS/HIV in the country. Obviously, practicing safe sex or abstaining from having sex with strangers in Swaziland is common sense. Is there malaria in Swaziland? There is a risk for malaria in the eastern regions of Swaziland that close to the Swaziland/Mozambique border. This includes the Lubombo district and the eastern half of Hhohho, Manzini, and Shiselweni districts. Anti-malaria tablets are recommended for these areas. The western regions of Swaziland which includes Piggs Peak and the capital city of Mbabane, Lobamba and Manzini are located in a low malaria risk area. Visitors must still use insect repellent to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes as an added precaution. Malaria is a life-threatening disease and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated in time. Should you experience any of the typical malaria symptoms within 10 days of arriving in the country, seek immediate medical treatment at a private hospital that’s equipped to treat malaria. Malaria should be suspected if you experience any flu-like symptoms after a holiday in a malaria area. The first symptoms of malaria are usually very similar to flu; aches and pains, fever and headache. After a few days, the typical paroxysms may occur; chills followed firstly by a high fever for a few hours and then by profuse sweating. Vaccinations needed for Swaziland Your immunisation status should be up-to-date prior to departing for any country in Africa. This includes tetanus, polio and diphtheria which is given as an all-in-one vaccine and hepatitis A. Immunisation against rabies is recommended for Swaziland, particularly if you’ll be hiking in the countryside or participating in outdoor adventure activities where you may encounter stray dogs. Proof of vaccination against yellow fever is needed if you are coming from a yellow-fever endemic area. A yellow fever vaccination is not need for Swaziland and immunisation against cholera is no longer required. Healthcare facilities in Swaziland The healthcare system in Swaziland is burdened by shortages of medical supplies and personnel, in particular experienced doctors. The state hospitals in Swaziland generally have a high patient-to-physician ratio and you’ll find yourself waiting for hours to be seen by a doctor. It’s highly recommended that tourists seek treatment at a private hospital or clinic in Malawi that has the medical expertise and supplies to treat general illnesses and injuries. For a more serious medical condition or serious injury, you should seek immediate medical treatment at a private hospital in South Africa. For this reason, it’s highly recommended that you take out travel insurance for a holiday in Malawi that covers medical treatments and medical evacuations. SAFETY TIPS FOR SWAZILAND

Swaziland is peaceful and safe to travel around if you stick to the main tourist destinations and use travel common sense. Tourism and hospitality is important for Swaziland’s economy so on the whole, tourists are treated with respect and well taken care of if they do experience any petty crime on a holiday. The most serious hazard for people on holiday in Swaziland is the state of the roads and the risk of road accidents. Drive carefully and stick to the road rules and make a point of getting to your destination before the sun goes down. Avoid at all costs travelling around Swaziland at night. Occasional crime experienced by tourists in Swaziland includes car-jacking, pickpocketing and the usual tourist scams such as card skimming or cloning. Be vigilante and don’t put yourself in any situation which is risky or life-threatening. Safety tips for a Swaziland trip also include: Avoid walking in downtown Mbabane and Manzini after dark Be wary of walking or picnicking in remote areas unless in a large group Keep valuables in a safe place and avoid carrying large amounts of money or wearing conspicuous expensive jewellery Drivers who break down or need to change a tyre should be wary of anyone who offers help; and don’t stop to assist apparently distressed motorists as this is a technique sometimes used by hijackers Always park in well-lit areas of town and in secure parking at shopping centres and your hotel in Swaziland Keep car doors locked and valuables such as mobile phones, cameras and handbags out of sight Avoid giving strangers a lift, in particular hitchhikers Women travellers in Swaziland Women travelling on their own in Swaziland are not likely to encounter problems such as sexual harassment if they stick to the main tourist routes and attractions and use common sense. Traditional Swazi culture is strongly patriarchal but Swazis are used to female visitors travelling independently. In rural areas, it’s best to dress modestly so as not to draw to much attention to yourself. It’s recommended that ladies wear a wrap or sarong over their swimming costumes when walking to their rooms or the restaurant and avoid wearing shorts or skirts that are too short and show to much bare skin. Women should not accept lifts from strangers or walk around town alone after dark. Women’s sanitary products are widely available. Travelling with children Swaziland is a great place to take your kids for a holiday because there is so much to see and do with companies such as Swazi Trails. Children are more vulnerable to some health risks so ensure that you take all medical precautions. You also need to be aware of the global problem of child/human trafficking; make sure your children are well supervised on a Swaziland holiday and never let out your sight. Homosexuality in Swaziland Male and female homosexuality in Swaziland is not officially illegal but it remains a strong social taboo. Same-sex relationships are not prosecuted but out of respect for the cultural fabric of Swaziland, it’s advisable to keep same-sex displays of affection private. The Swaziland constitution does not safeguard the rights of gay people and ‘sodomy’ laws dating from the early 20th century that outlaw consensual homosexual acts between adults are still on the books. Human rights groups have criticised Swaziland for its anti-gay legislation. However, it is highly unlikely that as a tourist on a Swaziland trip that you’ll be harassed for obvious homosexual interactions. Travelling with a disability Swaziland lags far behind South Africa in promoting travel for people with disabilities and visitors will not find the same range of facilities that they might expect in developed countries. Only a few hotels in Swaziland offer adapted rooms and no disability-specialist operators currently run dedicated trips to Swaziland. However, with advance notice many hotels in Swaziland and reputable can meet the needs of disabled travellers and will ensure that accommodation, facilities and itineraries are chosen and/or adapted accordingly. Disabled travellers will find friendly and enthusiastic help wherever they go, although they should remember that helpers may not be trained so will need clear instructions. Destinations in Swaziland recommended for disabled travellers include: Mountain Inn in Mbabane Ngwenya Glass Complex GENERAL WELL-BEING Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water in Swaziland. Avoid drinking tap water, particularly in remote and rural areas where water might not be safe to drink. Buy bottled water from restaurants, hotels and shops. Diarrhea is a common ailment when travelling in Swaziland and can be brought on by anything from poor water to spicy foods and dehydration. Carry anti-diarrhea medicine in your medical kit and in extreme cases seek medical attention at a local clinic or hospital. If diarrhoea is combined with nausea, vomiting, cramps, fever or blood in the stool; you’ll need a course of antibiotics to treat it. To stay healthy and well in Swaziland, follow these basic precautions: avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood avoid eating food bought from market vendors and roadside vendors only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered avoid putting ice in your drink at local bars and restaurants; it’s most likely made using local tap water always wash fresh fruit and vegetables in bottled water if you buy them from roadside markets

INTERESTED IN A TOUR OF SWAZILAND

Moafrika Tours specialises in day and long-stay tours to the major destinations and tourist attractions in South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland and Mozambique. Find out more about the fascinating places you’ll visit on a tour of Swaziland with Moafrika Tours and what to expect from a Swaziland tour package.

• +27 (0) 82 506 9641
• +27 (0) 72 783 9787
• [email protected]
• Address: 16 Karen Road, Illiondale, Johannesburg, South Africa

Popular Tours

Additional information, awards and recognition.

Copyright © MoAfrika Tours 2024

MoAfrika tours and the Kruger Safari Co. are destination management companies (DMC) and are not entities of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).

WhatsApp Now

• Client Reviews
• Safari Blog
• Send an Inquiry
• Map of Africa
• Contact Details
• African Safari Cost
• Travel Insurance
• You are here 
• Kingdom of eSwatini
• Hlane Royal National Park
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Kingdom of eSwatini Safari Packages & Tours

24 Tours to Kingdom of eSwatini, ordered shortest to longest trip. Prices are from R13509 $725 £577 €677 A$1105 C$991 NZ$1214 to R145400 $7804 £6214 €7284 A$11896 C$10667 NZ$13072 per person. Use our Tour Search → to filter by price, duration, start point, travel style and more.

• Page 1 of 2 Pages 
•  > 

8 Day Eswatini & South Africa Safari (Lodge Overland…

• More about this tour
• Enquire about this tour

8 Day Eswatini & South Africa Safari (Camping Overland…

8 Day Eswatini & South Africa Safari (Small Group Overland…

South Africa Tour - Self Drive Kruger, Eswatini & KwaZulu-Natal

13 Day South Africa Safari & Eswatini Tour

14 Day South Africa Safari: Kruger to Addo Park (Overland…

14 Day Eswatini, Mozambique & Kruger Safari (Camping…

South Africa Walking Safari to Kruger & Zululand

14 Day Eswatini, Mozambique & South Africa Safari (Lodge…

14 Day South Africa Safari: Kruger to Addo (Camping Overland…

14 Day South Africa Safari: Kruger to Addo (Small Group…

17 Day South Africa & Eswatini Safari

18 Day South Africa Tour - Coast & Kruger Safari

19 Day South Africa, Eswatini & Lesotho Safari (Lodge…

19 Day South Africa, Eswatini & Lesotho Safari (Camping…

19 Day South Africa Safari Adventure (Small Group Tour)

Kruger to Cape Camping Safari via Eswatini & Lesotho

Best of South Africa Safari Tour - Johannesburg to Cape…

20 Day Zimbabwe, eSwatini, Mozambique & Kruger Overland…

20 Day Zimbabwe, eSwatini, Mozambique & Kruger Lodge…

Filter Tours by Price, Length & Destinations

Complete one or many fields - all are optional. use the keyword 'special' to show special offers..

• Addis Ababa
• Antananarivo
• Dar es Salaam
• Diego Suarez
• Johannesburg
• Livingstone
• Port Elizabeth
• Victoria Falls
• Zanzibar Island

This search is inclusive - we will only show tours that visit all the countries you select.

• South Africa

This search is inclusive - we will only show tours that visit all the destinations you select.

• Chobe National Park
• Etosha National Park
• Garden Route
• Kilimanjaro
• Kruger National Park
• Namib Desert
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Okavango Delta
• Pilanesberg National
• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Serengeti National Park
• South Luangwa National
• All Budget Safaris
• All Overlanding
• Child Friendly Tours
• Gorilla Trekking
• Adventure Travel
• Short Stay Tours
• Private Safaris
• Accommodated Overland
• Budget Camping Safaris
• Budget Lodge Safaris
• Exclusive Budget Safaris
• Exclusive Overland
• Forty Plus Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Tours
• Hiking Tours
• Overland Camping Tours
• Self Drive Tours
• Shark Cage Diving Tours
• Backpacker Hostel
• Beach Resort
• Bungalow or Chalet
• Fully Serviced Camping
• Guesthouse / B&B
• Lodge & Camping Combo
• Lodge / Safari Lodge
• Luxury Camping
• Mobile Camping
• Standard Camping
• Tented Lodge

1. Africa is BIG! Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed . 2. Our wildlife search is inclusive - it only shows trips matching all the boxes you tick. 3. If you get 'no results' - select fewer animals :)

• Chimpanzees
• Exceptional Birding
• Whales & Sea Life
• Migration Safari
• Shark Cage Diving
• Conservation Experience

Please note: activities are often optional components on any given tour.

• Delta Mokoro
• Fly-in Safari
• Hiking / Climbing
• Hot Air Balloon
• Walking Safari
• White Water Rafting

Our TrustPilot Reviews

Unsure of where, when or what to book talk to a friendly human.

Our team has the destination knowledge to help you plan an unforgettable African adventure. We're based in Cape Town and ready to help.

We can also plan you an affordable private group or tailor-made tour . We built our business on turning luxury travel into affordable travel.

Why Travel to Kingdom of eSwatini ? by Luke Hardiman

The mountainous Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland) offers visitors a rich mix of spectacular scenery, authentic cultural encounters, traditional craft markets, and beautiful wildlife parks.  

This landlocked country, also called Ngwane, is one of three monarchies in Africa and is the smallest African country in the southern hemisphere. The friendly Swazi people are proud of their traditional lifestyle and indigenous cultures welcoming visitors to experience their heritage and ceremonies.  Eswatini is a relaxing and fascinating tourist destination with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty to see and do.

Hlane Royal National Park – Game Walk in eSwatini's Biggest Reserve

The Hlane Royal National Park is eSwatini's largest game reserve, covering some 30 000 hectares of wilderness in eastern Swaziland.  Hlane is known for its game walks tracking white rhinos and elephants. This beautiful reserve is also home to lions, leopards and cheetahs, as well as giraffe, zebras and some antelopes. Hlane Royal National park is also inhabited by a rich variety of birds.

There are plenty of optional activities available in the nature reserve, including hiking, mountain biking, lion tours, and game drives. On our eSwatini safaris that visit Hlane, we camp in the game reserve, surrounded by unspoiled African bushveld.  We take a game walk with a local ranger in search of rhino, elephant and diverse birdlife on our Hlane Park safaris.

Mlilwane Nature Reserve - Relax in eSwatini's Oldest Game Park

Mlilwane Nature Reserve is eSwatini's oldest and most popular protected area, covering 4 560 hectares of grassland and African wilderness. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a predator-free reserve, which makes it ideal for safe game walks and family safaris. It is ideally situated in the “Valley of Heaven” or Ezulwini Valley, easily accessible from Ezulwini and Malkerns tourism hubs. Visitors have 24-hour access to the Mlilwane Nature Reserve, making it an even more convenient stop over.

Mlilwane is home to zebra, giraffe, various antelope species, crocodile, hippo, and diverse birdlife. You can explore the beautiful scenery and interact with the flora and fauna of the area on foot, getting up close to nature and all its wonders. In addition to the wildlife and scenery Mlilwane Reserve also offers visitors the unique cultural experience of watching traditional Swazi dancers perform.

Optional activities at the tranquil Mlilwane Reserve include hiking, mountain biking and horse riding as well as game viewing drives. On our eSwatini Safaris to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, we stay in Beehive Huts in the reserve.

Malolotja Nature Reserve - Explore eSwatini's Unspoiled Mountain Wilderness 

Traveling through lush fruit farming country in northwestern eSwatini, you reach the secluded Malalotja Nature Reserve famous for its spectacular mountain scenery and rich variety of flora and fauna. Malalotja covers around 18 000 hectares of scenic mountain terrain and is considered the last unspoilt mountain wilderness in eSwatini (Swaziland). The reserve is known for its wide variety of habitats, from grassland to riverine scrub and bushveld to lush forests. In Malalotja you can spend a full day walking through seldom-explored mountains and taking in the stunning views.

The reserve is home to wildlife such as wildebeest, leopard, serval, aardwolf, jackal, zebra and bushpig. Various antelopes also inhabit the park, including reedbuck, blesbok, red hartebeest, and oribi. Malalotja Reserve also boasts frog species endemic to eSwatini, Lesotho and South Africa, as well as abundant birdlife, including some rare bird species. Birds found in the wilderness area include louries, sugarbirds, sunbirds, blue cranes, and swallows, as well as a colony of bald ibis at Malolotja Falls. 

Ngwenya Mountain, eSwatini's second-highest mountain at 1829 metres lies within Malalotja Nature Reserve. The reserve also encompasses the deep Nkomati River Valley and the highest waterfall in Swaziland, Malolotja Falls, which plummets 95 metres. On our safaris to Malolotja we stay in log cabins with fantastic panoramic views under starry Swaziland night skies.

Shewula Community-Based Natural Resources Programme (CBNRP) - Volunteer in eSwatini

One of our Swaziland tour choices is a Volunteer Safari that visits Shewula community in the scenic Lubombo conservancy. On this eSwatini Safari, you spend time with the local Swazi women engaged in crafts and perma-culture projects, assisting them and learning how these women support the community. On this meaningful cultural experience in rural eSwatini you gain insight into these friendly people’s culture and traditional lifestyles. 

African Budget Safaris' Swaziland Safaris

African Budget Safaris offers a number of tours that travel to eSwatini as part of longer safari itineraries throughout Southern Africa, ranging from 7 to 42 days in length. Combine eSwatini/Swaziland with the Kruger National Park in South Africa, or several other highlights of South Africa, such as Cape Town, Durban, the Drakensberg, or Isimangaliso Wetlands among others. Or you could choose to visit Mozambique, Lesotho or other Southern African countries such as Namibia, Botswana or Zimbabwe, in addition to eSwatini.

We have different types of safaris to eSwatini, including Exclusive, Accommodated, and Camping Overland Tours, self-drive safaris, volunteer programs, and hiking tours. For those in search of more comfort, there are also Budget Lodge Safaris and Exclusive Budget Safaris to eSwatini. 

Find out more with our Kingdom of eSwatini safari travel guide page.

• Kenyan Safaris
• Madagascar Tours
• Masai Mara Tours & Safaris
• Serengeti Tours & Safaris
• Tanzania Safaris
• Vic Falls Tours & Safaris
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Swaziland

Looking for the perfect 7-day getaway to Swaziland with a fantastic guided tour? We've carefully analyzed all of the possible week-long tour options to Swaziland based on price, comfort, service, guest ratings, cuisine, and activities in order to find the absolute best multi-day organized tour options available. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed expedition, these guided tours offer the perfect length to indulge in the best of both worlds. From captivating excursions to tantalizing cuisine, get ready to experience the ultimate 7-day escape to Swaziland that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of wanderlust. So, check out our curated list of tours below to get started!

• 7-day Kruger, Eswatini & Durban (Accommodated) 7 Days, $1275.00
• 7-day Kruger, Eswatini & Durban (Camping) 7 Days, $1025.00
• Wild Kingdoms Safari (from Johannesburg to Durban) 7 Days, $1406.00

Which 7-day tour options are available in Swaziland?

Here are the important factors:

• 3 trip options analyzed
• $166 average price per day (USD)
• 4.53 of 5 average rating
• 14 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 7 days in Swaziland, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.53 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 14 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. With our thorough analysis of 3 tours lasting 7 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Swaziland has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 3 Best 7-Day Tours in Swaziland

7-day kruger, eswatini & durban (accommodated).

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 7 days.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This fantastic journey has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, visiting South Africa and Swaziland. Discover a journey that spans 5 destinations, with notable stops in Kruger National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, and St Lucia. Your journey will begin in Pretoria and end in Durban. This terrific trip also highights overlanding, wildlife, beaches, and safaris. Lasting 7 days, the maximum group size is 16 people, and it's good for guests from 18 to 75 years old. Organized by Acacia Adventure Holidays , this is a great deal because it's only $164 per day.

• Overland Truck

7-day Kruger, Eswatini & Durban (Camping)

With a stellar 4.8 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey, visiting South Africa and Swaziland, is the perfect choice. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on overlanding and wildlife. This trip takes you on an adventure to 7 destinations, including St Lucia, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Hazyview, and Kruger National Park. Begin your trip in Pretoria and complete it with a memorable finale in Durban. Spanning across 7 days, the journey accommodates 16 individuals, and is suitable for guests from 18 to 75 years old. Offered by Acacia Adventure Holidays , this remarkable journey is priced at just $132 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Wild Kingdoms Safari (from Johannesburg to Durban)

This exceptional trip offering by Cullinan Guided Journeys has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 7-day journey, visiting South Africa and Swaziland, you can unwind while also making new memories. With 7 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Kruger National Park, and Mbabane, and more. Your journey starts off in Johannesburg and finishes in Durban. With a group size of 10 people, it's suitable for guests from 8 to 90 years old. You'll love the emphasis on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris, too. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $201 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Swaziland , The Best Wildlife Tours to Swaziland , The Best 2-Week Tours in Swaziland , The Best 3-Week Tours in Swaziland , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Swaziland , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Swaziland , The Best Overlanding Trips in Swaziland , The Best Adventure Tours to Swaziland , The Best Eco Tours in Swaziland , The Best Cultural Tours in Swaziland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Swaziland , The Best Safaris in Swaziland , The Best Budget Safaris in Swaziland , The Best Budget Tours to Swaziland , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Swaziland for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

How much do 7-day tours to Swaziland cost?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for tours lasting 7 days when planning a visit to Swaziland. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of tours lasting 7 days in Swaziland based on data from 3 options is an affordable $166 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Swaziland .

And for more information on Swaziland, see Swaziland Travel Costs and Swaziland Hotel Costs .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Budget Your Trip

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

• 3-Day Eswatini (Swaziland) Tour – Add to Kruger Park Safari

Home » 3-Day Eswatini (Swaziland) Tour – Add to Kruger Park Safari

Previous Post 3-Day Cultural and Scenic Tour of Lesotho

Next post 3-day 4-star kruger park safari at mjejane river lodge.

Comments are closed.

Itinerary for This Tour

Depart from your lodge in or near the Kruger after your morning game drive. Enter Eswatini (Swaziland) via the “Geo Route” from Barberton through Bulembu Border post or, if time does not allow, via the closer border crossing of Jeppe’s Reef.

The Bulembu Route follows the Geo Trail or route through the world’s oldest mountains, the Greenstone Belt Mountains over 3 billion years old. The rocks in these mountains also contain the earliest traces of primitive life on earth. Plaques in lay byes along the route explain the ancient events creating these mountains and the early geological history of our planet. There are amazing views all along the route.

After entering Eswatini (Swaziland) and arriving at the forestry town of Piggs Peak we will journey to the centre of this little country and to stay at Mlilwane Game Reserve. On the way, we will descend into a deep valley and cross the impressive Maguga Dam.

Your stay here will be in the beehive-shaped thatched Swazi huts which are fully equipped with attached ensuite private bathrooms but still have the wonderful atmosphere of staying in a traditional Swazi dwelling. If you are allergic to thatch then there are standard roofed chalets available.

The reserve does not have any large predator mammals and so a range of activities are possible here. Mountain biking around the reserve and hiking is safe. There are crocodiles and hippos in the large dam but they do not pose a threat.

Meals are on a beautiful dining deck overlooking the dam.

There is usually local entertainment around the campfire after dinner. You will be accompanied around the campfire on cooler nights by the local warthogs who love the warmth of the fire on their round tummies!

Overnight Mlilwane Game Reserve, Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast 

After a morning activity at Mlilwane (Mountain biking, horseriding, hike in the reserve) and breakfast we shall set out to explore the surrounding areas of Eswatini. Our first stop will be at Mantenga Falls Cultural Village. Here we shall have traditional Swazi life explained to us and how life is lived in the village. We shall then witness one of the best tribal dancing and singing displays available in Southern Africa. We will take a short hike to the waterfall through the indigenous forest surrounding the river.

Later we will visit some local craft industries such as Ngwenya Glass (handblown glass artifacts) and the Candle Factory and craft village and have light lunch somewhere along the way.

Then back to Mlilwane for dinner by the dam.

Overnight Mlilwane Game Reserve, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

After some other optional activity at Mlilwane and breakfast this morning we shall return via a different route to the Kruger area. This will depend on your itinerary after today. We can also return you to Johannesburg Airport (OR Tambo Airport – JNB) or your Johannesburg/Pretoria-based hotel, but as this distance is much greater, please enquire about extra cost if any, when adding this to Kruger Park Safari tour booked with us, as return to Johannesburg may already be included in that.

Breakfast at Mlilwane

End of Tour.

• Transport with an experienced guide from the Kruger area and back.
• Accommodation two nights dinner bed and breakfast Mlilwane Game Reserve,
• Mlilwane Game Reserve Conservation Fee
• Lunches on Day 1 and Day 2.
• Entrance fees
• Visa Costs at Swazi border ( if any).
• All Beverages excluded, except for tea and coffee with meals
• All meals not in the itinerary
• Travel and Medical Insurance excluded
• All Optional Activities excluded
• All cost of a personal nature, eg. laundry, telephone calls
• Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Accommodation Note : All the hotels and lodges are as reflected in this itinerary, but if for reasons beyond the control of Mmilo Tours this is not possible, they will be replaced with establishments of the same star grading.

Important:  Please read the itinerary carefully, noting any optional activities you or some members in your group may want to take part in. You do not have to take part in any of the optional activities if you do not wish to. It helps us in our planning to know if you are interested and number of participants. These additional optional activities are not costed into this scheduled tour, and if you choose them, you pay the extra amount involved either directly to Mmilo Tours in advance, or on arrival at the venue. You will be informed accordingly by Mmilo Tours, and they are extra to the basic cost of the tour.

All our tours and packages are subject to availability at the time of booking and payment and accommodation is in a standard double Beehive room at Mlilwane Rest Camp.

Accommodation for this Tour

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Simple, clean and comfortable accommodation with electricity. Bedding and towels are provided. Once a mealie-field (corn field) , the Rest Camp has become a well-established indigenous forest, thanks to a tree-planting operation in 1960’s.

Tours and Safaris

• 2-Day Pilanesberg National Park Safari
• 2-Day Panorama Route Tour – Africa’s ‘Grand Canyon’ – Add on to your Mmilo Tours Kruger Park safari
• 2-Day Add-on Crocodile River Night Drive and Bush Walk from a Kruger National Park Lodge
• 3-Day Luxury 5-Star Pilanesberg Safari
• 3-Day 5-Star Chobe Safari from Victoria Falls

View All.....

Day Trips and Adventures

• Pilanesberg Sunrise Safari
• Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre
• Johannesburg and Soweto Day Trips
• The Elephant Sanctuary near Johannesburg, Pretoria
• Cradle of Humankind Day Tours

© 2024 Trips Tours and Safaris in Southern Africa.

• Standard Terms and Conditions
• Disclaimer & Indemnity
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• +2712 654 5308 / +27 83 770 5298
• 07:00 - 17:00 (GMT/UTC+2)
• [email protected]
• 2-Day Add-on – Visit to Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre From the Panorama Route or Kruger National Park
• 3-Day 4-Star Chobe Safari from Victoria Falls
• 3-Day 4-Star Victoria Falls Tour
• 3-Day Cultural and Scenic Tour of Lesotho
• 3-Day 4-Star Shishangeni Private Lodge Safari – Kruger National Park
• 3-Day (2 Night) Crocodile River and Kruger National Park Safari
• 3-Day Leisurely Pilanesberg Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria
• 4-Day Historic City and Idyllic Beach Tour of Mozambique
• 4-Day 4-Star Cape Town Tour
• 5-Day Garden Route Tour – Port Elizabeth to/from Cape Town
• 5-Day Panorama Route and Kruger Park Safari at Mjejane River Lodge
• 5-Day Pestana Panorama Route Tour and Kruger Park Safari
• Custom Tour
• 3-Day Eco-Friendly Pilanesberg Luxury Safari at Tshukudu Bush Lodge
• 3-Day 5-Star Victoria Falls Tour (Zambian Side)
• 3-Day Luxury Kruger Park Safari at Lukimbi Safari Lodge
• 4-Day Top Class Luxury Safari at a Sabi Sabi Lodge – Kruger Park
• 5-Day Luxury Cape Town Tour
• 11-Day South Africa Luxury Safari, Cape Town and Victoria Falls
• Rhino and Lion Reserve
• Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Cradle of Humankind
• Magaliesberg Canopy Tour
• Balloon Safari in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve
• Lesedi Cultural Village Tour
• Pretoria City Day Tours
• Cape Town Winelands Tour: 8 hours
• Cape Town Peninsula Route Full Day Tour
• Cape Town Customised Day Trip

Top Tours in Eswatini (Swaziland), Africa

Eswatini (swaziland) tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Eswatini (Swaziland) 1-day Country Tour from Maputo

2. Eswatini Hiking Trail

3. Eswatini Cultural Tour

4. eSwatini Full Day Tour

5. Swaziland Cultural Day Trip

6. Full-day Tour of Eswatini (Swaziland) (Min. 2 pax)

7. HLANE ROYAL NATIONAL PARK - Daytrip (Open Vehicle)

8. Walking Eco City tour Manzini

9. 6 Day Garden Route Small Group Tour Fr CapeTown - Departs Mondays

10. Eswatini Cultural Tour (Swaziland)

11. Mbabane City Walking Tours- eSwatini

12. 4-Day Best Of eSwatini Tour- The African experience

13. Full-Day Hlane Royal National Park Safari from Manzini

14. Hlane Royal National Park - Eswatini Full Day Tour

15. 3 Days Cultural Swaziland, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane National Park.

16. 2 Days Cultural Swaziland Hlane National Park

17. Bush Fire Swaziland Expedition

18. Hlane National park

19. Eswatini Transfer Bus

What travellers are saying.

Eswatini (Swaziland) Tours & Holidays

This small but immensely beautiful country is home to one of Africa’s last remaining monarchs.

Tradition is important here and Swazis celebrate their country and their customs with pride. Match that with some outstanding wildlife spotting and Swaziland is an absolute winner.

Our Eswatini (Swaziland) trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Eswatini (Swaziland) at a glance

Capital city.

Mbabane (administrative, population 100,000); Lobamba (royal, population 10,00)

1.16 million

Swati, English

(GMT+02:00) Windhoek

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type M (see D)

Learn more about Eswatini (Swaziland)

Best time to visit eswatini (swaziland).

While the Highveld remains cool and rain is common all year round, the lowlands are warmer and drier. Winter (from June to August) is the best time to visit. Rain is most prevalent from October to May but this can still be a pleasant time to visit as temperatures are mild and there’s plenty of sunshine.

Top 5 Swazi experiences

1. walking safari.

Take wildlife spotting to a whole new level with a walking safari through Hlane Royal National Park. Spot rhinos, giraffes and vultures. You may even encounter lions… from a safe distance of course.

2. Umhlanga

Once a year, tens of thousands of young Swazi girls travel to the Queen Mother’s royal village. There they cut reeds to present to her before performing traditional dances.

3. Village life

Get a taste of all things traditional at a Swazi cultural village. Explore domed grass houses, learn Swazi songs, try out some dance moves and help celebrate a culture that is being kept alive by passionate locals.

4. Incwala ceremony

Catch a glimpse of the king at the annual Incwala ceremony. Celebrating the first fruits of the season, the ceremony includes a dance by the king and his regiments in their spectacular warrior dress.

5. Eat street

Take your tastebuds on a tour of Swaziland’s street food. Mingle with locals over stewed or grilled meat, stamped mealies and corn roasted on the cob.

Geography and environment

Swaziland is blessed with four major rivers, making it one of Africa’s most fertile countries. The Lubombo plateau is the main farming area, while rolling hills and pine forests cover much of the Highveld, Middleveld and Lowveld. Swaziland shares borders with  South Africa  and  Mozambique .

Further reading

Eswatini (swaziland) travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Eswatini (Swaziland):

Australia: No visa required

Belgium: No visa required

Canada: No visa required

Germany: No visa required

Ireland: No visa required

Netherlands: No visa required

New Zealand: No visa required

South Africa: No visa required

Switzerland: No visa required

United Kingdom: No visa required

USA: No visa required

Citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand don't currently require a visa for Swaziland for a stay of up to 2 months. For all other nationalities, please check the requirements with the closest consulate or embassy.

Is tipping customary in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Service charges usually aren’t included in bills but it’s customary to tip 10% in restaurants and to guides.

What is the internet access like in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Internet cafes can be found in Mbabane but can be difficult to find elsewhere.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Mobile phone reception is good in urban areas, but can be patchy elsewhere. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Eswatini (Swaziland) has a combination of modern flushable toilets and squat/pit toilets, depending on where you are travelling and staying. Generally large hotels, modern restaurants and city cafes have flushable toilets, while remote areas have squat toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

• Bottle of soft drink = 8 SZL
• Beer in a bar or restaurant = 10 SZL
• Simple meal = 100 SZL
• Three-course meal = 140 SZL
• Short taxi ride = 40 SZL

Can I drink the water in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Tap water is considered safe to drink, however outside main towns it’s advised to sterilize or filter the water. For environmental reasons, try to avoid bottled water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

Credit cards are accepted in hotels and upmarket shops.

What is ATM access like in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

While ATMs are available, only a few accept international cards.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

What public holidays are celebrated in Eswatini (Swaziland)?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 2 Jan New Year Holiday
• 15 Apr Good Friday
• 18 Apr Easter Monday
• 19 Apr King's Birthday
• 25 Apr National Flag Day
• 1 May Workers' Day
• 26 May Ascension Day
• 22 Jul King Father's Birthday
• 6 Sep Somholo Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec Boxing Day

Please note these dates are for 2022. For a current list of public holidays in Swaziland go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/swaziland/public-holidays

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Swaziland Travel Agency

At Exploring Tourism, the leading Swaziland travel agency, we outdo at helping you get your trip planned. Not just trip, but exceptional trips filled with exciting and life-enriching experiences. Our travel agents are experts at handcrafting and coordinating complex itineraries to Swaziland

RECOMMENDED SWAZILAND PACKAGES

Swaziland Travel Agent

Exploring Tourism is one of the most reliable and experienced travel agency in Swaziland. It helps you plan your trip to Swaziland and helps you gain an enriching life experience. With expert Swaziland travel agent, it offers customized tour packages according to your requirements and budget. Pack your bags and be ready to explore Swaziland with us.

Travel to Swaziland with Exploring Tourism to get the best travelling experience. We have partnered with the best and experienced travel agent to provide you the perfect and specialized tour package. They plan your tour according your budget, duration, and interest. We also help you with your airport transfer, guide, hotel , sightseeing and all kinds of activities in Swaziland .

Planning to spend your holidays in Swaziland? Contact Exploring Tourism to plan the best trip to Swaziland for you. It is one of the well-known and reliable travel agency in Swaziland with association with the best travel agent to plan your dream trip to Swaziland within your budget. Send your travel enquiry with more details to our local Tour Operator.

At Exploring Tourism, our professional Manzini Travel Agent specialize in organizing and planning trips for individuals or groups visiting Manzini, Swaziland largest city. Our travel agent in Manzini has an in-depth knowledge of the attractions, accommodation, transport options and local customs; drawing on this expertise, they create memorable travel experiences for clients.

Manzini is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers visitors many tourist attractions ranging from historic monuments to modern wonders. Our travel agent in Manzini can guide tourists in choosing places to visit according to their interests and preferences.

• 7 Special Services
• 2 Sightseeing
• 3 Activities
• 8 Places to Visit
• 5 Transportation

Newsletter Signup

Special offers.

• 1-820-3345-33
• [email protected]

READY FOR YOUR TOURS AND TRAVEL EXPERIENCE?

Find your perfect travel experience from hundreds of amazing deals and honest traveler’s reviews. Select the destination you love!

2 Swaziland Tours and Travel Packages/Deals

Cultural Full Day Tour - A Taste of Swaziland

Big Game Safari Tour

Login to continue.

Not a member yet? Click here to create an account.

Forgot password?

Ask a Question

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Defence and armed forces

PM to announce largest-ever military aid package to Ukraine on visit to Poland

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will announce the largest-ever military aid package to Ukraine on his visit to Poland.

• PM to travel to Poland and Germany to cement security, trade and diplomatic ties with key European allies
• He is expected to announce a £500 million boost for Ukraine and largest-ever provision of vital munitions, including some 400 vehicles, 1,600 munitions and 4 million rounds of ammunition 
• PM to discuss the threat from Russia and UK efforts to support European security with Prime Minister Tusk and the Nato Secretary-General in Warsaw

The Prime Minister will travel to Poland today [Tuesday 23 April] to announce a massive uplift in military support for Ukraine, including £500 million in additional military funding and our largest-ever delivery of vital equipment. 

He will meet Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to discuss deepening UK-Poland relations, and the leaders will hold talks with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Warsaw on European security and support to Ukraine. The Prime Minister will then travel on to Germany to meet Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin.

Ukraine is facing an existential threat as Russia continues its barbaric invasion, risking the security and stability of all of Europe. 

The £500 million additional funding announced today - which takes us to £3 billion in UK military aid for Ukraine this financial year - will be used to rapidly deliver urgently-needed ammunition, air defence, drones and engineering support. The drones will be procured in the UK and the funds will support a scale-up in domestic defence supply chains.

The Ministry of Defence will also send our largest-ever single package of equipment from the UK, designed to help push back the Russian invasion on land, sea and air. It includes: 

• 60 boats including offshore raiding craft, rigid raiding craft and dive boats as well as maritime guns
• More than 1,600 strike and air defence missiles, as well as additional Storm Shadow long-range precision-guided missiles. 
• More than 400 vehicles, including 160 protected mobility ‘Husky’ vehicles, 162 armoured vehicles and 78 all-terrain vehicles.
• Nearly 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:

 “Defending Ukraine against Russia’s brutal ambitions is vital for our security and for all of Europe. If Putin is allowed to succeed in this war of aggression, he will not stop at the Polish border. 

“I am in Warsaw today to deepen ties with our Polish partners and commit critical new military support for Ukraine’s defence.  Ukraine’s armed forces continue to fight bravely, but they need our support – and they need it now. Today’s package will help ensure Ukraine has what they need to take the fight to Russia.

“The United Kingdom will always play its part at the forefront of European security, defending our national interest and standing by our Nato allies.”

 Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

“This record package of military aid will give President Zelenskyy and his brave nation more of the kit they need to kick Putin out and restore peace and stability in Europe. 

“The UK was the first to provide NLAW missiles, the first to give modern tanks and the first to send long-range missiles. 

“Now, we are going even further. We will never let the world forget the existential battle Ukraine is fighting, and with our enduring support, they will win.”

In his first in-person meeting with new Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the Prime Minister will also seek to deepen UK-Poland ties across a range of issues. 

Building on existing strong defence and security cooperation, he will offer to deploy an RAF Typhoon Squadron to carry out Nato Air Policing over Poland next year. 

To further boost trade and support UK companies looking to invest in Poland, the Prime Minister will also announce today an intention to triple UK Export Finance funding available for Poland from £5 billion to £15 billion – our most generous offer to a partner country to date. 

Bilateral trade between the UK and Poland has doubled in the last decade to reach £30.6 billion, with 45 million bottles of Scotch whisky bought in Poland last year and UK firms bidding for £5 billion worth of Polish opportunities across energy, defence, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

• Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
• Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Update to the UK Export Finance funding figures available for Poland.

First published.

Invasion of Ukraine

• UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals
• Move to the UK if you're coming from Ukraine
• Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
• Find out about the UK’s response

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.