Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa known for its pristine wilderness reserves, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions. Experience wildlife safaris, dramatic mountain landscapes, and authentic Swazi ceremonies in one of Africa's last absolute monarchies.
Eswatini is generally safe for tourists who exercise standard precautions. Crime rates are moderate with opportunistic theft the primary concern in urban areas; violent crime against tourists is uncommon. Political restrictions around the monarchy require awareness, and health precautions especially malaria in the lowveld are important.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise normal security precautions. Be aware of political tensions following 2021 protests. Take malaria prophylaxis if visiting eastern lowveld. Avoid night driving on rural roads.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest. Political demonstrations and protests have occurred since 2021 and can turn violent. Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.
Standard precautions advised
Take normal precautions. Be aware of the malaria risk in lower altitude areas. Political protests have occurred; avoid demonstrations.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in Mbabane and Manzini - use hotel-arranged taxis after dark
Keep car doors locked and windows up while driving, especially at traffic lights in urban areas
Be cautious on major routes from South Africa at night due to carjacking risk on N1 and N4 equivalents
Avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings - political unrest has occurred and can turn violent
Use registered taxis or hotel transport when possible; always agree fares before entering an unlicensed vehicle
Register with your embassy upon arrival - the South African embassy in Mbabane assists many nationalities
Malaria risk exists in lower-altitude areas (Lowveld including Hlane and Mlawula) - take prophylactics prescribed by doctor and use DEET repellent
Respect the monarchy - do not photograph the Royal Palace or the King without permission; verbal criticism of the king is a criminal offence under Swazi law
Dress modestly when visiting rural areas, cultural villages, and religious sites - covering shoulders and knees is advisable for women
Be aware of HIV/AIDS prevalence (Eswatini has one of the world's highest rates at approximately 27%); exercise standard precautions regarding medical facilities and personal safety
Carry a certified copy of your passport at all times - police checkpoints are frequent and you may be asked to show identification
Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or the king's vehicles - this is illegal and can result in arrest
Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles and be alert in busy markets and transport hubs where pickpocketing can occur
Drink only bottled water throughout your stay - tap water is not safe for consumption
If visiting the eastern lowveld (Hlane, Mkhaya), be aware of potentially dangerous wildlife on roads at night
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Unlicensed or informal taxi drivers at the airport and tourist areas may quote inflated prices, particularly for airport transfers.
How to avoid: Always agree on the fare before entering the vehicle. Use hotel-recommended taxis or ask your accommodation to arrange transport at a fixed price.
Craft market pressure selling
At informal craft markets (not at established centres like Swazi Candles or Gone Rural), vendors may follow persistently and pressure visitors to buy items they've handled or been shown.
How to avoid: Be politely firm if not interested. Established fixed-price craft centres offer quality items without pressure. Once you pick up an item, expect the seller to negotiate seriously.
False guide offers
Unofficial 'guides' may approach tourists at popular sites like Sibebe Rock offering services then demanding high fees, or at cultural villages offering extra access for payment.
How to avoid: Use official guides arranged through reserve offices and cultural centers. Guides at legitimate sites will have identification and agreed prices displayed.
Border crossing confusion
At busy border crossings like Oshoek/Ngwenya, money changers may offer unofficial exchange and shortchange travelers or use confusing calculations.
How to avoid: Remember that South African Rand and Swazi Lilangeni are at par (1:1) and both accepted throughout Eswatini - no need to exchange currency at the border.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies (for those doing extensive outdoor activities), Tetanus. Ensure MMR and DTP routine vaccinations are current. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from yellow fever endemic country.
- Water
- Tap water is NOT safe to drink. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive ($1-2 per liter) throughout the country.
- Food
- Eat at established restaurants and cooked food from market stalls. Avoid raw salads at street stalls. Fruit you peel yourself is generally safe. Be cautious with dairy products from informal vendors.
- Facilities
- Mbabane Government Hospital and Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital in Manzini provide emergency care. Private clinics including Mbabane Clinic offer better standard of care. Medical facilities are limited outside major towns. Medical evacuation to South Africa (Johannesburg) is the standard for serious conditions - ensure comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Eswatini is generally manageable for solo travelers of all genders during daytime hours. The country is small and well-traveled, with English widely spoken. Avoid walking alone in urban areas after dark, use hotel-arranged transport at night, and take standard precautions with valuables. The nature reserves are safe for solo visitors during the day. The Swazi people are generally warm and helpful toward visitors.
Female travellers
Female travelers are generally safe in Eswatini with normal precautions. Dress modestly especially in rural areas and at cultural sites - covering shoulders and knees shows respect and reduces unwanted attention. Avoid walking alone in Mbabane and Manzini after dark. Be aware that LGBTQ+ rights are restricted which creates a conservative social climate. Solo female travelers report feeling generally comfortable at tourist sites and lodges.
Families
Eswatini is family-friendly with several attractions specifically suitable for children. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary has no dangerous predators making it safe for walking with children. Most lodges accommodate families well. Health precautions are important: malaria prophylaxis for children visiting the lowveld, sun protection at high altitude, and bottled water throughout. Road safety requires care on rural routes.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are technically illegal under Eswatini's colonial-era laws though enforcement against tourists is rarely reported. Public displays of affection should be avoided. Eswatini's conservative culture means LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion. The tourism industry is generally professional and welcoming regardless of orientation. Connecting with LGBTQ+-friendly accommodation in advance is advisable.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 999
- Medical
- 977 (ambulance); +268 2404 2423 (Mbabane Clinic private)
- Embassy
- Most nationalities contact South African embassy in Mbabane: +268 2404 4651. US citizens: US Embassy in Mbabane +268 2417 9000. UK citizens: British High Commission +268 2404 2581.
- Tourist Police
- Contact local police station or +268 2404 4105 (Mbabane Police Station)