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Swaziland FAQ

Is tipping customary in Swaziland?

Service charges usually aren’t included in bills but it’s customary to tip 10% in restaurants and to guides.

What is the internet access like in Swaziland?

Internet cafes can be found in Mbabane but can be difficult to find elsewhere.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Swaziland?

Mobile phone reception is good in urban areas, but can be patchy elsewhere. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Swaziland?

Swaziland has a combination of modern flushable toilets and squat/pit toilets, depending on where you are travelling and staying. Generally large hotels, modern restaurants and city cafes have flushable toilets, while remote areas have squat toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

Bottle of soft drink = 8 SZL
Beer in a bar or restaurant = 10 SZL
Simple meal = 100 SZL
Three-course meal = 140 SZL
Short taxi ride = 40 SZL

Can I drink the water in Swaziland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink, however outside main towns it’s advised to sterilize or filter the water. For environmental reasons, try to avoid bottled water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Swaziland?

Credit cards are accepted in hotels and upmarket shops.

What is ATM access like in Swaziland?

While ATMs are available, only a few accept international cards.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Swaziland?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Swaziland?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Mar 29 Good Friday
Apr 1 Easter Monday
Apr 19 King Mswati III’s Birthday
Apr 25 National Flag Day
May 1 Labour Day
May 9 Ascension Day
Jul 22 King Father’s Birthday
Aug 1 Umhlanga/Reed Dance Day
Sep 6 Somhlolo Day (Independence Day)
Dec 1 Incwala Ceremony
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Dec 26 Boxing Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Swaziland/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Swaziland?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • SWAZILAND:
    Citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand don't currently require a visa for Swaziland for a stay of up to 2 months. UK and Irish nationals do require a visa but can obtain it free of charge on arrival.

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Swaziland at a glance

  • 5
  • Mbabane (administrative, population 100,000); Lobamba (royal, population 5,800)
  • 1.18 million
  • Swati, English
  • SZL
  • (GMT+02:00) Windhoek
  • Type M (see D)
  • +268

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