Welcome to Swaziland 😊

Quick Facts About Swaziland

Money and Finances

The currency in Swaziland is called Lilangeni (SZL). The denominations for coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, while the denominations for banknotes are 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 lilangeni.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in major cities and towns in Swaziland, but they may not be as widespread in rural areas. Visitors are advised to bring enough cash for their trip, especially when traveling outside of urban areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally not widely accepted in Swaziland. Visa and Mastercard may be accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses. It is recommended to carry cash or traveler's checks as backup.

Internet and Phones

Internet speeds in Swaziland are relatively slow compared to other countries, with an average download speed of 5Mbps and an upload speed of 2Mbps. The government does not heavily regulate internet use, but there have been reports of internet censorship and surveillance in the past.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Swaziland has three major telco companies - MTN, Swazi Mobile, and Eswatini Mobile. The cost of a mobile phone plan varies depending on the provider and the plan chosen, but generally ranges from SZL50 to SZL500 per month. There may be compatibility issues with certain SIM cards, so it's best to check with the provider before purchasing a plan.

Dialling to Swaziland

To call Swaziland from another country, dial +268 followed by the local number. Within Swaziland, dial the local number with the area code prefix of 2 or 3 depending on the region.

Transport Around Swaziland

Air Travel

Swaziland has one major airport, King Mswati III International Airport, located in the capital city of Mbabane.

Train Travel

Swaziland does not have a inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Swaziland does not have a local train network.

Buses

Swaziland has a small bus network, with tickets costing an average of SZL 10 (USD 0.70) and journey times varying depending on destination.

Rideshare

There are no major rideshare companies operating in Swaziland.

Driving by Car

Driving in Swaziland is relatively easy, with speed limits ranging from 60-80 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on highways. Swaziland uses left-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Swaziland, tipping is not generally expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake and may also use traditional Zulu expressions. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be polite and respectful. Men and women may address each other using titles such as 'Mkhulu' (grandfather) or 'Gogo' (grandmother) as a sign of respect. Additionally, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health system in Swaziland is underdeveloped with limited resources and equipment. There are both public and private healthcare providers, with the latter being more expensive. Most locals rely on traditional healers for their healthcare needs. Medical insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for tourists. A visit to a doctor can cost around $30-50.

COVID Situation

Swaziland has reported a total of 17,757 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 678 associated deaths and 16,989 recoveries as of September 2021. The government has implemented various restrictions and protocols throughout the pandemic, including curfews, lockdowns, and mandatory mask-wearing in public places.

Common Health Risks

Swaziland has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, and travelers should take precautionary measures to avoid contracting the disease. Malaria is also a risk, especially during the rainy season (November-April), and travelers should take anti-malaria medication and use mosquito nets. Other risks include water-borne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid, and food poisoning from street food and uncooked or undercooked meats.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Swaziland, the legal drinking age is 18. Alcohol consumption is legal and widely accepted, although public intoxication can result in arrest.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Swaziland, including for soft drugs such as cannabis. Penalties for drug offenses can be severe, including lengthy prison sentences and fines.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are not illegal in Swaziland, but the culture is generally conservative regarding sex and relationships. Sex outside of marriage is frowned upon, and many people adhere to traditional values.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Swaziland, and LGBTQ individuals face discrimination and harassment. Same-sex relationships are not recognized by the government, and there are no legal protections for LGBTQ individuals.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership is legal in Swaziland, but the process is tightly controlled. A permit is required to own or possess a firearm, and applicants must undergo a background check and meet certain criteria.