What do you need if you travel to Eswatini?

ID and Passports

Eswatini does not permit entry with an ID card only. All travelers, except for certain SADC (Southern African Development Community) member state nationals, are required to present a valid passport upon arrival.

Travelers from most countries must present a valid passport to enter Eswatini. Entry requirements vary depending on nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries can enter Eswatini without a visa for short stays (up to 30 or 90 days depending on nationality) with just a valid passport:

  • South Africa
  • Botswana
  • Namibia
  • Lesotho
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • European Union (Schengen Area countries)
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Canada
  • Japan

Visa Required

Citizens of countries that are not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before traveling to Eswatini. A valid passport is required, and you must apply for a visa at an Eswatini embassy or consulate.

Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.

Toll Roads in Eswatini

Eswatini does not have a toll road system. All major roads and highways in the country are accessible without any toll fees.

Driving Tips in Eswatini:

  • Left-Hand Driving: Eswatini follows left-hand driving regulations, similar to neighboring countries like South Africa and Botswana.
  • Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
  • Speed Limits: Urban areas: 60 km/h, rural roads: 80 km/h, highways: 120 km/h.
  • Road Conditions: Most of Eswatini's main roads are paved and in good condition, but rural roads may be unpaved and challenging to navigate, especially during the rainy season.

Weather in Eswatini

Overview

Eswatini has a diverse climate due to its varying topography. The country experiences warm, wet summers and cool, dry winters.

Summer (October to March)

Summers in Eswatini are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Rainfall is common during these months, especially in the highland regions.

Winter (April to September)

Winters are dry and cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The highland areas can experience cooler temperatures, dropping to around 5°C (41°F) at night.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The dry winter months (April to September) are ideal for visiting Eswatini, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall.
  • Prepare for Rainy Weather: If traveling during the summer months, be prepared for heavy rains and possible disruptions, especially in the highlands.

Currency in Eswatini

The official currency of Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), which is abbreviated as SZL and symbolized as E. The South African Rand (ZAR) is also widely accepted.

Banknotes and Coins

Lilangeni banknotes are available in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 E. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, and 1 E.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available in banks, hotels, and airports. The Lilangeni is pegged at par with the South African Rand, and both currencies are accepted interchangeably in Eswatini.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities, hotels, and shopping centers. However, it is advisable to carry cash when traveling to rural areas or smaller towns.

Travel Tips

  • Currency Usage: While the Lilangeni is the official currency, the South African Rand can also be used for payments. However, receiving change in Rand is not guaranteed.
  • Cash Availability: ATMs are widely available in urban areas, but it's recommended to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling to rural parts of the country.
  • Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions in Eswatini.

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