Small in size but rich in cultural pride, Eswatini (known as Swaziland until 2018) offers travelers a peaceful and authentic experience far from Africa’s busier tourist circuits. This landlocked kingdom, nestled between South Africa and Mozambique, may be compact, but it’s one of the few countries in the world still ruled by an absolute monarchy—and its traditions run deep.

Visitors often arrive for the scenery (lush green hills, fertile valleys, and game reserves) but stay captivated by the culture. Whether you're watching the energetic Umhlanga Reed Dance, exploring a bustling craft market, or tracking rhinos on foot, Eswatini offers a unique combination of nature and heritage that’s difficult to find elsewhere.

Must-See Places in Eswatini

Mbabane

The capital city sits among the rolling Mdzimba Mountains. It’s compact and easy to explore, offering markets, galleries, and a good introduction to Swazi life. Nearby Sibebe Rock (the second-largest exposed granite dome in the world) makes for an adventurous day hike.

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Eswatini’s oldest protected area is ideal for wildlife viewing without the crowds. You can walk, cycle, or horseback ride among zebras, warthogs, and antelopes. With no predators, it’s perfect for safe, up-close encounters.

Lobamba

The country’s spiritual and cultural heart. Home to the royal family and the National Museum, it also hosts major traditional ceremonies like Incwala. The nearby Mantenga Cultural Village gives a powerful look at Swazi customs and homestead life.

Hlane Royal National Park

This park is one of the best places in Eswatini to see elephants, lions, and rhinos. Game drives are affordable and led by friendly local guides. Don’t miss the watering holes (they’re hotspots for animal sightings).

Ngwenya Glass Factory

Just outside Mbabane, artisans here craft beautiful glassware using recycled materials. Visitors can watch the glass-blowing process and shop for unique souvenirs that support the local community.

What to Eat in Eswatini

Sishwala – Comfort in a Bowl

A thick maize porridge often served with sour milk or stewed meat. It’s a daily staple in Swazi homes (hearty, simple, and satisfying).

Sidvudvu – Sweet and Soft

Made from mashed pumpkin and maize meal, this smooth dish is slightly sweet and served as a side with meats or as a warm comfort dish on its own.

Inkhukhu – Village Chicken, Swazi Style

Free-range chicken slow-cooked in a tomato and onion sauce. Served at gatherings and Sunday lunches. Rich in flavor and tradition.

Bemvu – Snack of the Fields

A seasonal delicacy of red ants or termites, usually roasted and salted. Crisp and nutty (best tried fresh during the rainy season).

Marula Beer – The Festive Pour

A naturally fermented fruit drink made from the marula tree. Lightly alcoholic and often shared during celebrations. Locals say it brings people together.

Essential Travel Tips for Eswatini

Best Time to Visit

May to September is dry and cooler (ideal for game drives and cultural events).

October to April is green and lush but comes with summer rains.

Money & Payments

Currency: Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), interchangeable with South African Rand (ZAR)

Cards: Accepted in towns and larger shops; rural areas are mostly cash-based.

Cash: Widely used. Carry small bills for markets and transport.

Tipping: 10% in restaurants is customary if not included in the bill.

 

Getting Around

Buses and minibus taxis are common but can be slow and informal.

Car hire is available in cities and best for exploring parks or rural areas.

Roads are well-maintained, but drive cautiously (animals may wander onto rural roads).

 

Staying Safe

Eswatini is peaceful and generally safe for tourists.

Petty theft is rare, but still keep valuables close in crowded places.

Drink bottled water when outside major towns (tap water may not always be safe).

Staying Connected in Eswatini

Wi-Fi is available in urban hotels and cafés, but speeds vary and outages are not uncommon (especially in rural or mountainous areas).

Local SIM cards require registration and queues can be long. Service counters often operate on limited hours, and setup instructions are not always clear to travelers.

JetSet eSIM keeps it simple.

Activate your Eswatini JetSet eSIM before takeoff, and arrive with data ready to go. Whether you're tracking a safari route or uploading photos from a traditional dance ceremony, your connection stays with you.

Need more data? Order a new eSIM in seconds (no need to hunt for a mobile store).

Explore Eswatini with confidence. JetSet eSIM keeps you connected from capital cities to cultural heartlands.