The most important and best advice when traveling to Eswatini

When traveling to Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), it’s important to respect the local culture and traditions. Here are some tips for making the most of your trip:

1. Dress modestly: Eswatini is a conservative country, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing or shorts, and men should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts.
2. Learn some siSwati: SiSwati is the official language of Eswatini, and while many people speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn some siSwati phrases. Try learning some basic greetings, such as “Sawubona” (hello) and “Yebo” (yes).
3. Respect the monarchy: Eswatini is a monarchy, and the king is a highly respected figure in the country. Avoid making negative comments about the royal family or engaging in political discussions.
4. Follow local customs and traditions: Eswatini has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. When visiting a rural area, for example, it’s customary to ask for permission before taking photos or entering someone’s home.
5. Try local food: Eswatini has a unique cuisine that is influenced by both traditional African and European dishes. Try local favorites such as “bobotie” (a spicy meat dish), “umncweba” (dried meat), and “sishwala” (a porridge made from maize).
6. Visit the game reserves: Eswatini has several game reserves that are home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. Consider visiting the Mkhaya Game Reserve or the Hlane Royal National Park to see some of these amazing animals in their natural habitat.
7. Support local communities: Eswatini has many rural communities that rely on tourism for their livelihoods. Consider staying in locally-owned lodges or purchasing handmade crafts from local artisans to support these communities.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Eswatini:

1. Visit the Mantenga Cultural Village: The Mantenga Cultural Village is a great place to learn about traditional Swazi culture and customs. The village features a traditional Swazi homestead, a craft market, and a cultural show that showcases Swazi music and dance.
2. Hike in the Malolotja Nature Reserve: The Malolotja Nature Reserve is a beautiful destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
3. Attend the Umhlanga Reed Dance: The Umhlanga Reed Dance is a traditional Swazi ceremony that takes place every year in August or September. The ceremony celebrates the coming of age of young women and involves the gathering of reeds, which are used to build the queen mother’s hut.
4. Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory: The Ngwenya Glass Factory is a popular attraction in Eswatini, where visitors can watch skilled glassblowers create beautiful glassware using recycled glass bottles.
5. Try Local Beer: Eswatini has a growing craft beer industry, with many local breweries making high-quality and unique beers. Consider trying some of the local beer, such as the Sibebe Lager or the Malandela’s Ale.
6. Visit the Mlawula Nature Reserve: The Mlawula Nature Reserve is another great destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, and is home to many species of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes.
7. Explore the Ezulwini Valley: The Ezulwini Valley is a popular tourist destination in Eswatini, known for its stunning scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Consider visiting the Swazi Cultural Village, the The Gables Shopping Centre, or the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary while in the area.

Eswatini offers a rich cultural and natural heritage, with many opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

1. Visit the Hlane Royal National Park: The Hlane Royal National Park is a popular destination for wildlife viewing in Eswatini. The park is home to elephants, rhinos, lions, and other wildlife, and offers guided game drives and walking safaris.
2. Take a Cultural Tour: Eswatini has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many tours available that offer a deeper insight into Swazi traditions and customs. Consider taking a tour of a traditional homestead, visiting a local school or orphanage, or attending a cultural festival or ceremony.
3. Explore the Sibebe Rock: The Sibebe Rock is the largest exposed granite dome in the world, and is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing. The hike to the top of the rock offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Visit the Malandela’s Centre: The Malandela’s Centre is a cultural and entertainment complex located in the Ezulwini Valley. The centre features a restaurant, bar, craft market, and live music performances.
5. Try Local Crafts: Eswatini has a thriving crafts industry, with many local artisans producing high-quality handmade items such as wooden carvings, woven baskets, and beaded jewelry. Consider purchasing some souvenirs or gifts to bring home.
6. Visit the Mbuluzi Game Reserve: The Mbuluzi Game Reserve is another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Eswatini. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and warthogs.
7. Sample Local Cuisine: Eswatini has a unique cuisine that is influenced by both traditional African and European dishes. Try local favorites such as “umncweba” (dried meat), “sishwala” (a porridge made from maize), and “emasi” (sour milk).

Eswatini offers a diverse range of activities and experiences, from wildlife viewing and outdoor activities to cultural tours and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Eswatini:

1. Visit the Mantenga Cultural Village: The Mantenga Cultural Village is a great place to learn about traditional Swazi culture and customs. The village features a traditional Swazi homestead, a craft market, and a cultural show that showcases Swazi music and dance.
2. Hike in the Malolotja Nature Reserve: The Malolotja Nature Reserve is a beautiful destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
3. Attend the Umhlanga Reed Dance: The Umhlanga Reed Dance is a traditional Swazi ceremony that takes place every year in August or September. The ceremony celebrates the coming of age of young women and involves the gathering of reeds, which are used to build the queen mother’s hut.
4. Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory: The Ngwenya Glass Factory is a popular attraction in Eswatini, where visitors can watch skilled glassblowers create beautiful glassware using recycled glass bottles.
5. Try Local Beer: Eswatini has a growing craft beer industry, with many local breweries making high-quality and unique beers. Consider trying some of the local beer, such as the Sibebe Lager or the Malandela’s Ale.
6. Visit the Mlawula Nature Reserve: The Mlawula Nature Reserve is another great destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, and is home to many species of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes.
7. Explore the Ezulwini Valley: The Ezulwini Valley is a popular tourist destination in Eswatini, known for its stunning scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Consider visiting the Swazi Cultural Village, the The Gables Shopping Centre, or the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary while in the area.

Eswatini offers a rich cultural and natural heritage, with many opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Eswatini:

1. Visit the Hlane Royal National Park: The Hlane Royal National Park is a popular destination for wildlife viewing in Eswatini. The park is home to elephants, rhinos, lions, and other wildlife, and offers guided game drives and walking safaris.
2. Take a Cultural Tour: Eswatini has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many tours available that offer a deeper insight into Swazi traditions and customs. Consider taking a tour of a traditional homestead, visiting a local school or orphanage, or attending a cultural festival or ceremony.
3. Explore the Sibebe Rock: The Sibebe Rock is the largest exposed granite dome in the world, and is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing. The hike to the top of the rock offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Visit the Malandela’s Centre: The Malandela’s Centre is a cultural and entertainment complex located in the Ezulwini Valley. The centre features a restaurant, bar, craft market, and live music performances.
5. Try Local Crafts: Eswatini has a thriving crafts industry, with many local artisans producing high-quality handmade items such as wooden carvings, woven baskets, and beaded jewelry. Consider purchasing some souvenirs or gifts to bring home.
6. Visit the Mbuluzi Game Reserve: The Mbuluzi Game Reserve is another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Eswatini. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and warthogs.
7. Sample Local Cuisine: Eswatini has a unique cuisine that is influenced by both traditional African and European dishes. Try local favorites such as “umncweba” (dried meat), “sishwala” (a porridge made from maize), and “emasi” (sour milk).

Eswatini offers a diverse range of activities and experiences, from wildlife viewing and outdoor activities to cultural tours and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

1. Visit the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: The Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities in Eswatini. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, and warthogs, and offers guided game drives, horseback riding, and hiking trails.
2. Attend the Bushfire Festival: The Bushfire Festival is an annual music and arts festival that takes place in Eswatini in May. The festival features live music performances, art exhibitions, and workshops on topics such as environmentalism and social justice.
3. Explore the Phophonyane Falls: The Phophonyane Falls are a series of waterfalls located in a beautiful forested area in northern Eswatini. The falls are a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
4. Visit the Swazi Candles Craft Centre: The Swazi Candles Craft Centre is a popular tourist attraction in Eswatini, where visitors can watch local artisans create beautiful candles using traditional techniques.
5. Try Local Coffee: Eswatini has a growing coffee industry, with many local farmers producing high-quality coffee beans. Consider trying some of the local coffee, such as the coffee from the Mabuda Farm Coffee Estate or the Black Mamba Coffee Company.
6. Visit the Mantenga Falls: The Mantenga Falls are a beautiful waterfall located in a scenic valley in northern Eswatini. The falls are a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
7. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Taking a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape of Eswatini is a unique and unforgettable experience. Several companies offer hot air balloon rides in Eswatini, including the Balloon Safaris Eswatini.

Eswatini offers a wealth of activities and experiences for visitors, from wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures to cultural tours and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

1. Visit the Swazi Candles Workshop: The Swazi Candles Workshop is a popular tourist attraction in Eswatini, where visitors can watch skilled artisans create colorful candles in various shapes and sizes. The workshop also has a shop where visitors can purchase handmade candles as souvenirs.
2. Take a Cultural Tour: Eswatini has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many tours available that offer a deeper insight into Swazi traditions and customs. Consider taking a tour of a traditional homestead, visiting a local school or orphanage, or attending a cultural festival or ceremony.
3. Go on a Safari: Eswatini has several game reserves where visitors can go on safari and see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. The Mkhaya Game Reserve and the Hlane Royal National Park are popular safari destinations in Eswatini.
4. Visit the Ezulwini Valley: The Ezulwini Valley is a popular tourist destination in Eswatini, known for its stunning scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Consider visiting the Swazi Cultural Village, the The Gables Shopping Centre, or the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary while in the area.
5. Attend the Umhlanga Reed Dance: The Umhlanga Reed Dance is a traditional Swazi ceremony that takes place every year in August or September. The ceremony celebrates the coming of age of young women and involves the gathering of reeds, which are used to build the queen mother’s hut.
6. Explore the Malolotja Nature Reserve: The Malolotja Nature Reserve is a beautiful destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
7. Try Local Cuisine: Eswatini has a unique cuisine that is influenced by both traditional African and European dishes. Try local favorites such as “umncweba” (dried meat), “sishwala” (a porridge made from maize), and “emasi” (sour milk).

Eswatini offers a diverse range of activities and experiences, from wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures to cultural tours and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Eswatini:

1. Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory: The Ngwenya Glass Factory is a popular attraction in Eswatini, where visitors can watch skilled glassblowers create beautiful glassware using recycled glass bottles. The factory also has a shop where visitors can purchase handmade glass items as souvenirs.
2. Hike in the Mlawula Nature Reserve: The Mlawula Nature Reserve is another great destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, and is home to many species of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes.
3. Go on a Cultural Tour of the Matenga Cultural Village: The Matenga Cultural Village is a great place to learn about traditional Swazi culture and customs. The village features a traditional Swazi homestead, a craft market, and a cultural show that showcases Swazi music and dance.
4. Visit the Mantenga Nature Reserve: The Mantenga Nature Reserve is a beautiful destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
5. Attend the Marula Festival: The Marula Festival is an annual event held in February or March that celebrates the harvest of the marula fruit. The festival features traditional music and dance performances, as well as marula-based food and drinks.
6. Try Local Beer: Eswatini has a growing craft beer industry, with many local breweries making high-quality and unique beers. Consider trying some of the local beer, such as the Sibebe Lager or the Malandela’s Ale.
7. Visit the Hawane Dam: The Hawane Dam is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The dam is located in a scenic area surrounded by mountains and forests.

Eswatini offers a rich cultural and natural heritage, with many opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

1. Visit the Eswatini National Museum: The Eswatini National Museum is located in the capital city of Mbabane and offers a comprehensive overview of Swazi history and culture. The museum features exhibits on traditional crafts, artifacts, and artwork, as well as displays on the country’s colonial and post-independence history.
2. Explore the Malolotja Canopy Tour: The Malolotja Canopy Tour is a thrilling way to experience the beautiful Malolotja Nature Reserve. The tour takes you through the treetops on a series of ziplines, offering stunning views of the reserve’s forests and wildlife.
3. Attend the Bushman Paintings Tour: Eswatini is home to several sites with ancient rock paintings created by the San people, also known as Bushmen. The Bushman Paintings Tour offers a guided tour of these sites, providing insight into the history and culture of these indigenous people.
4. Take a Swazi Cultural Village Tour: The Swazi Cultural Village is a living museum that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Swazi life and culture. The village features a traditional homestead, a craft market, and a cultural show that showcases Swazi music and dance.
5. Visit the Maguga Dam: The Maguga Dam is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The dam is located in a scenic area surrounded by mountains and forests and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Eswatini.
6. Go on a Rhino Game Drive: The Hlane Royal National Park is home to a population of white rhinos, and visitors can go on guided game drives to see these magnificent animals up close. The park also offers guided walks and birdwatching tours.
7. Try Local Wine: Eswatini has a small but growing wine industry, with several local wineries producing high-quality wines using local grapes. Consider trying some of the local wine, such as the wine from the Mabuda Farm Wine Estate or the Black Mamba Wine Company.

Eswatini has a lot to offer visitors, from cultural experiences and outdoor activities to culinary delights and wildlife viewing. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Eswatini:

1. Visit the Mantenga Craft and Lifestyle Centre: The Mantenga Craft and Lifestyle Centre is a great place to shop for traditional Swazi crafts and souvenirs. The centre features a range of handmade items, including baskets, pottery, and textiles, as well as a restaurant and bar.
2. Take a tour of the Ngwenya Iron Ore Mine: The Ngwenya Iron Ore Mine is one of the oldest mines in the world and has been in operation for over 43,000 years. Visitors can take a tour of the mine and learn about its history and significance.
3. Explore the Sibebe Rock: The Sibebe Rock is a massive granite rock formation located near the town of Mbabane. The rock is a popular destination for hiking and climbing and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Attend the Incwala Ceremony: The Incwala Ceremony is one of the most important events in Swazi culture and takes place in December or January each year. The ceremony involves the gathering of the king’s subjects to celebrate the new harvest and reaffirm their loyalty to the king.
5. Take a tour of the Mbabane Market: The Mbabane Market is a bustling market in the heart of the capital city, where visitors can buy a range of goods, including fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional medicines.
6. Go on a birdwatching tour: Eswatini is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Several tour operators offer birdwatching tours, including the Mlawula Nature Reserve Birding Trail and the Malkerns Valley Birding Trail.
7. Attend the Swaziland International Trade Fair: The Swaziland International Trade Fair is an annual event held in August or September that showcases the country’s industries and products. The fair features exhibitions, live music, and cultural performances.

Eswatini is a fascinating and diverse country, with a rich culture and natural beauty. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the country’s stunning landscapes, you can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Eswatini:

1. Visit the Mkhaya Game Reserve: The Mkhaya Game Reserve is a unique destination in Eswatini that offers visitors the opportunity to see rare and endangered species, including black and white rhinos and elephants. The reserve also offers guided game walks and night drives for a more immersive wildlife experience.
2. Take a tour of the Swazi Gold Mine: The Swazi Gold Mine is a historic gold mine located in the town of Piggs Peak. Visitors can take a tour of the mine and learn about its history and significance in Swazi culture.
3. Visit the Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve: The Phophonyane Falls Nature Reserve is a stunning destination in Eswatini that features a waterfall, a forest reserve, and several hiking trails. The reserve is also home to a range of bird and animal species, making it a great place for wildlife viewing.
4. Attend the Bushfire Festival: The Bushfire Festival is an annual event held in May that celebrates music, art, and culture. The festival features live music performances, art exhibitions, and cultural workshops.
5. Take a tour of the Happy Valley Farm: The Happy Valley Farm is a small-scale organic farm located near the town of Malkerns. Visitors can take a tour of the farm and learn about sustainable agriculture practices, as well as sample some of the farm’s produce.
6. Explore the Hawane Nature Reserve: The Hawane Nature Reserve is a beautiful destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The reserve features stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
7. Visit the Mantenga Falls: The Mantenga Falls is a popular destination in Eswatini, where visitors can see a waterfall cascading down a cliff face. The falls are located near the Mantenga Cultural Village and are surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Eswatini offers a range of experiences for travelers, from wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures to cultural tours and culinary delights. By immersing yourself in the local culture, trying traditional foods and drinks, and exploring the natural beauty of the country, you can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience while traveling in Eswatini.