Swaziland

Översikt

Capital: Mbabane (pop. 68,000)
Population: -
Religions: Protestant 88%, other Christian 0.5%, Traditional faiths 2.5%, others
Languages: SiSwati (Swazi), English, Zulu, Tsonga, Portuguese
Time Zone: UTC+2
Driving side: Left
Calling code: +268
Electrical plug(s): Type M

Pengar

The local currency in Kingdom of eSwatini is Swazi emalangeni (SZL). As of 6 October 2026 100 SZL is equal to 6.01 USD.

Currency exchange can be done at airports, banks and exchange offices.

Travellers should be prepared to use credit or debit card payments in urban areas and cash in rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in some establishments but cash remains the preferred payment method. Credit cards are accepted in upscale and/or tourist areas only. ATMs are only available in urban and/or tourist areas.

El

The power supply in Kingdom of eSwatini is reliable. Electricity operates on 230V at 50Hz using plug type(s) M.

Pass

Most travellers will need a passport to enter Kingdom of eSwatini. The passport must be valid for at least three months after the date of arrival and have two blank pages.

Visum

Visa-free entry is available for certain travellers who qualify based on nationality and purpose of travel. All other travellers will need to obtain a visa from the nearest embassy or consulate or apply online (e-visa) prior to travel.

Entry visa requirements vary based on nationality, purpose of travel and other factors. Individual travellers are responsible for ensuring that they comply with all visa requirements, which should be confirmed with authorities at their destination prior to travel.

Visa Free Travel

Visa-free travel to the Kingdom of Eswatini: Foreign nationals from select countries can enter the Kingdom of Eswatini visa-free; authorities did not specify the maximum duration of stay.

e-Visas

E-visa: Foreign travellers can apply for an e-visa to enter the Kingdom of eSwatini. Authorities don't specify which nationals are eligible to obtain an E-visa, nor the duration of the stay. Generally, the permitted stay period for a short-term visit for business and tourism purposes is 30 days. Travellers can also apply for an E-visa for transit purposes.

Visas

Entry visa: Foreign nationals from select countries must apply for an entry visa, available on single-entry or multiple-entries, valid up to 30 days; the visa can also be used for business purposes and is extendable.

Lokal resor

Overview

Most major roads and highways are paved, however, some roads in rural areas are in poor condition. The difficulties of overland travel are exacerbated by mountainous terrain as well as a widespread lack of adherence to traffic regulations. Carjackings are also known to occur on routes leading to and from neighbouring South Africa and Mozambique. The country possesses several public transportation options, including rail, taxi and bus services, all of which are considered to be generally safe during daylight hours.

Travel Safety

Air Travel

King Mswati III (Sikhuphe) International Airport (SHO/FDSK), the only international airport in the Kingdom of eSwatini, has daily flights to and from Johannesburg, South Africa, on Airlink. The Airport is located 50km (31 miles) from Manzini and around 84km (52 miles) from Mbabane. The country only has one other major airport, which is Matsapha Airport (MTS/FDMS) in Manzini district, while the remaining airports are small and do not boast adequate facilities.

Borders and Entry

Health-related surveillance measures: Authorities implemented Ebola surveillance measures at the country’s entry points, effective until further notice, to prevent the entry of the disease.

Identification

Most travellers will need a passport to enter Kingdom of eSwatini. The passport must be valid for at least three months after the date of arrival and have two blank pages.
Travellers with passports where gender is indicated as "neutral" are not allowed entry. The country's laws on LGBTQ people are conservative, and overall social acceptance is low. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer travellers in Kingdom of eSwatini might face legal and social difficulties.

Road Travel

Traffic moves on the left in the Kingdom of eSwatini. The speed limits are 60 kph (37 mph) on roads in urban areas, 80 kph (49 mph) on most roads and 120 kph (74 mph) on highways. The legal alcohol limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml. Travellers must own a valid driver's licence issued in French or an International Driving Permit.

Very few roads are paved outside urban areas; most roads are also poorly maintained. Limited traffic signage, poor lighting, the presence of animals and people on the roads, and many vehicles without headlights or brake lights make travelling at night risky. One of the biggest dangers when travelling by road in any form is accidents due to poor road conditions and car maintenance. If travelling on your own or in a rented vehicle, be extremely cautious when travelling at night and be aware of the threat of carjacking.

Public Transport

Buses: There are numerous bus and minibus taxi transportation options which run relatively regularly. Buses run very regularly between Mbabane and Maputo in Mozambique and many main South African cities. Road accidents and vehicle breakdowns are a common sight on highways linking the Kingdom of eSwatini with neighbouring South Africa. Many vehicles do not meet basic safety standards and are often overcrowded. Fatal accidents due to overloaded vehicles, reckless driving and high speeds are common. Taking minibuses or public transport is relatively safe during the day, but carjackings and robberies are common at night, especially on the highways to Mozambique and South Africa.

Taxis: Taxis are ubiquitous across Mbabane and other urban areas and can be hailed from the street or booked in advance through local firms or your hotel. Taxis do not use meters; ensure that you confirm the cost of the fare before entering the taxi. There is an increased risk of petty crime or theft when travelling in a shared vehicle. Do not enter a taxi that is already carrying passengers. ride-hailing app services, namely Leap Taxi and MobiRide, are recommended when possible as they have a fixed fare.

Vehicle Hire: Cars can be rented at the airport and at many South African rental agencies. Always ensure that you only rent vehicles from internationally recognisable agencies.