Eswatini Travel Guide – 8 Best Things to Do in Eswatini (Swaziland)

Eswatini, a small but culturally rich kingdom in Southern Africa, is one of the continent’s hidden gems. Known for its culture, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife, Eswatini offers a variety of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or nature, you’re sure to find it in Eswatini. This guide includes the best things to do in Eswatini, where to stay, and tips on getting there and making the most of your visit.

Eswatini

Eswatini, formerly named Swaziland, is one of Africa’s smallest countries, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. Despite its size, the country is packed with natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The landscape ranges from mountainous grasslands—known as highveld—a to lush valleys, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Eswatini’s monarchy is deeply intertwined with the nation’s identity. In fact, it’s the last absolute monarchy anywhere in Africa. The country is renowned for its Swazi festivals involving the royal family, like the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala.

Things to Do in Eswatini

1. Hlane National Park

Hlane National Park is Eswatini’s largest protected area and the best place to see wildlife.

The park is home to the famous Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. It’s also home to many other large species including giraffe, hippo, zebra, and wildebeest as well as a variety of birds.

The best part about Hlane is the fact that you can self-drive around it. Many of the roads are suitable for regular cars, so you don’t need a 4×4 off-road vehicle to enjoy the park. Walking safaris are also available for something a little different.

2. Malolotja Nature Reserve – Canopy Walk

Malolotja Nature Reserve is home to an incredible canopy tour complete with slides, zip lines, and a huge suspension bridge.

The course offers stunning views of the steep cliffs and rock formations and across the dense forest canopy. There’s also a small game drive on your way down to the canopy tour with ostriches, zebras, and antelope.

3. Sibebe Rock

Sibebe Rock is the world’s second-largest rock, the largest being Australia’s Uluru (Ayers Rock). You can hike to the top of Sibebe for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside or just admire it from below.

The rock holds cultural significance for the Swazi people and is thought to have been formed 3 billion years ago!

4. Ngwenya Iron Mine

Ngwenya Iron Mine is one of the oldest known mines in the world, dating back a staggering 43,000 years.

A guide joined us from the entrance gate to show us around, give a brief history of the site, and take us to the walkways leading to the oldest parts of the mine.

5. Ngwenya Glass

Near the Iron Mine you’ll also find the Ngwenya glass-blowing factory where local craftspeople create beautiful glassware from recycled materials. You can walk around the factory’s upper walkways and watch the skilled glassblowers in action.

There’s a small shop where you can pick up a souvenir or gift as a memento of your trip, and it’s a great way to support the local community.

6. Nsangwini Rock Art

The Nsangwini Rock Art site offers a fascinating look into the lives of the San people who inhabited Eswatini thousands of years ago. The rock paintings found here are among the best-preserved examples of San art in Southern Africa.

These hunter-gatherer tribes drew depictions of animals, hunting scenes, and spiritual rituals using animal blood mixed with ochre—the red soil common in the area.

It was a bit difficult to find, but if you take this road and follow it for around 5 miles, you should come to a small area where you can park. It’s worth noting that the road is very muddy and bumpy and shouldn’t be attempted in a normal car if it’s wet.

A local will come to guide you to the paintings for a small fee and the hike takes around 20-25 minutes each way.

7. Swazi Cultural Village

If you want to learn about the local culture, then the best way is to visit the Swazi Cultural Village. This living museum displays traditional Swazi life, from the living spaces of the beehive huts and handmade items to the customs and practices that are still followed today.

You can take part in cultural activities, watch traditional dances, and learn about the Swazi way of life. The village also offers a chance to interact with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage.

8. Maguga Dam

Maguga Dam is one of Eswatini’s most impressive engineering feats.

There are a few viewpoints on either side where you can take in panoramic views of the dam, the reservoir, and the surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay in Eswatini

Accommodation is pretty cheap in Eswatini and there’s not much for a higher-end budget. Most of the activities are in the west near the capital Mbabane, so it makes sense to stay there. It’s a fairly small country, so most places can be reached within an hour anyway.

If you’re after a conventional hotel stay then the Hilton Garden Inn or Happy Valley Hotel and Casino are both good options both offering a pool, gym, and restaurant.

Or, if you want something a bit different then try Mantenga Lodge which offers great views of the valley or the stylish Mogi Boutique Hotel.

How to Get to Eswatini

Most people combine Eswatini with a longer South Africa road trip.

Getting to Eswatini this way is really easy via several border posts. If you’re coming from the east coast then Golela is the best option, from Kruger use Jeppes Reef, and from Johannesburg it’s Oshoek.

Getting Around Eswatini

Eswatini is a small country, without much traffic, so getting around is relatively straightforward. Renting a car is by far the most convenient option for exploring.

The roads are generally in an okay condition, especially the main highways connecting major towns. It’s best not to drive at night though because there are quite a few potholes, people driving with full beam headlights, and livestock often in the road.

How Long to Stay in Eswatini

If you’re combining your visit with a South Africa road trip, then 2 to 3 days would be enough. That would give you time to see the highlights, without eating too much into your time in South Africa.

Eswatini FAQs

Is Eswatini Safe for Tourists?

Eswatini is generally considered safe for tourists. The crime rate is lower compared to many other African countries, and the people are known for their hospitality. However, like anywhere else, it is important to take standard precautions. Watch out for pickpockets in the busier areas, don’t leave valuables unattended and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Is Eswatini Worth Visiting?

Despite its small size, Eswatini is definitely worth a visit as part of a longer trip. There’s plenty of culture, natural beauty, and wildlife to ensure most travelers leave happy.

Why Did Swaziland Become Eswatini?

In 2018, King Mswati III announced that Swaziland would be renamed Eswatini. The name change was made to reflect the country’s heritage and to mark 50 years of independence from British rule.

Do They Speak English in Eswatini?

Yes, English is one of the official languages of Eswatini, along with Swazi (siSwati). English is widely spoken in government, business, and tourism, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate.

Do You Need a Visa for Eswatini?

Visa requirements for Eswatini depend on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most European Union countries, do not need a visa for short stays (usually up to 30 days). Visitors from other countries should check the requirements on their government’s website.

Eswatini Travel Guide – 8 Best Things to Do in Eswatini (Swaziland)

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