Swaziland-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Mbabane

  • Arrive at King Mswati III International Airport (SHO)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel in Mbabane
  • Visit the Mbabane Museum to learn about Swaziland’s history and culture
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-4pm
      • Admission fee: E100 (approximately $12 USD)
    • Activity suggestion:
      • Take a stroll along the scenic Mbabane River walkway
  • Dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional Swazi cuisine such as Umngqusho (staple food made from cornmeal and water) and Huku (roasted chicken)

Day 2: Explore Mbabane and Ngwane Falls

  • Visit the Ngwane Falls, a beautiful waterfall located just outside Mbabane
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-4pm
      • Admission fee: E50 (approximately $6 USD)
      • Be prepared for a moderate hike to reach the falls
  • Visit the National Museum of Swaziland in Mbabane to learn about the country’s history and culture
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-4pm
      • Admission fee: E50 (approximately $6 USD)
      • Exhibits include traditional artifacts, art, and natural history
  • Dinner at a local restaurant, trying Staple food with Sosaties (meat skewers)

Day 3: Big Game Parks and Hlane Royal National Park

  • Visit the Big Game Parks, home to white rhinoceros, hippopotamus, elephant, and other game
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 6am-6pm (game viewing)
      • Admission fee: E200 (approximately $25 USD) per person for a guided tour
      • The park is divided into different areas, including Simunye and Mbuluzi
  • Visit the Hlane Royal National Park, known for its large herds of antelope and other wildlife
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 6am-6pm (game viewing)
      • Admission fee: E100 (approximately $12 USD) per person

Day 4: Swazi Cultural Village and Manzini

  • Visit the Swazi Cultural Village, a living museum showcasing traditional Swazi culture
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-5pm
      • Admission fee: E100 (approximately $12 USD)
      • Includes a tour of traditional huts, a reed dance performance, and crafts demonstrations
  • Visit the Manzini Market, one of Swaziland’s largest markets
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-5pm
      • Offers local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs

Day 5: Ezulwini Valley and Ngwenya Mine

  • Visit the Ezulwini Valley, a scenic area known for its beautiful gardens and waterfalls
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-4pm
      • Admission fee: E50 (approximately $6 USD)
  • Visit the Ngwenya Mine, an open-cast chrome mine and museum
    • Things to know:
      • Open daily from 9am-5pm
      • Offers a tour of the mine, including a gemstone workshop

Visa Requirements:

  • Tourists do not require a visa for entry into Swaziland, but must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel arrangements.
  • Citizens of some countries may need to obtain an e-visa in advance.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available in Swaziland and can be hired for the day (approximately E200-300 per person).
  • Shuttle buses connect major towns and cities, including Mbabane, Manzini, and Ezulwini.
  • Renting a car is also an option, with many car hire companies available.

Other Things to Know:

  • Swaziland has three distinct seasons:
    • Summer (December-February): hot and humid
    • Autumn (March-May): mild and pleasant
    • Winter (June-August): cool and dry
  • The official language is English, but you may also hear SiSwati being spoken.
  • Local currency is the Lilangeni (SZL), although US dollars are widely accepted.