Eswatini

The Land of Kings
and Rolling Hills

Flag of Eswatini

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small landlocked country in Southern Africa renowned for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and traditional monarchy. Home to iconic landmarks like Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Sibebe Rock, and the Ngwenya Glass Factory, Eswatini offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The country's geography ranges from lush valleys to rolling hills and mountains.

Swazi culture is deeply rooted in traditions, reflected in its vibrant Umhlanga (Reed Dance) ceremony, colorful marketplaces, and cuisine featuring dishes like sishwala (corn meal) and sidvudvu (pumpkin). Known for its warm hospitality, as Africa's last absolute monarchy, and for its thriving handicraft industry, Eswatini presents a captivating destination that combines stunning scenery with rich cultural traditions.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Eswatini.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Eswatini.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including most Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, the UK, US, and EU nations, can enter Eswatini with a valid passport and stay for up to 30 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Eswatini, either through an embassy or upon arrival (subject to approval).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Eswatini without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without an Eswatini visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Eswatini using only a valid national ID card:
    • Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states (e.g., South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique)

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 30 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 3 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 30 days within a 180-day period unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Eswatini embassy or high commission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
Toll

Driving in Eswatini

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Eswatini has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Mbabane-Manzini road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Eswatini Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Swazi Lilangeni (SZL) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Eswatini

  • Drive on the left side of the road (due to historical ties with the British Commonwealth).
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 110 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; urban roads in Mbabane and Manzini are generally good, but rural roads can be poorly maintained, especially during the rainy season (October to March). Exercise caution, particularly in mountainous areas.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require an Eswatini driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Eswatini has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant due to aggressive drivers, livestock on roads, and poor conditions in rural areas. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is generally reliable, but keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in remote areas.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for emergencies (police, ambulance, and fire).

Useful Links

Eswatini Currency

The official currency of Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL).
(Note: The Lilangeni is pegged 1:1 to the South African Rand (ZAR), which is also legal tender in Eswatini.)

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 SZL
  • Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents; 1, 2, 5 SZL
  • Symbol: L

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, King Mswati III International Airport (Manzini), and major hotels in Mbabane and Manzini.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct SZL or ZAR withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in Mbabane, Manzini, and tourist areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Eswatini website: https://www.centralbank.org.sz/exchange-rates
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Eswatini

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Eswatini, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or royal family issues, especially related to the monarchy or regional tensions.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 60 days in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Eswatini.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, royal palaces, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Eswatini Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • No specific legal mandate for public beach access, but coastal areas like those near the Indian Ocean border are generally open to the public where applicable.

Key Resources

Eswatini Safety

Eswatini is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Eswatini.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites in Mbabane and Manzini. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Eswatini is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads, aggressive drivers, and poor rural road conditions, especially in mountainous areas.
  • Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to limited lighting and road hazards.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies (for long-term stays), and COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against malaria, dengue, and tick-borne illnesses.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 1,862 meters (Emlembe).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the Mbabane Government Hospital offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 999 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 999 | Fire: 999 | Police: 999.
  • Tourist Police (Mbabane): +268 2404 2222.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural or mountainous areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Malolotja Nature Reserve).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or royal family issues.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons (May to September).

Key Links

Flying to Eswatini

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