Swaziland 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Swaziland

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Mbabane

  • Arrival: Fly into King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) and transfer to your accommodation in Mbabane, the capital city of Swaziland.
  • Mbabane Market: Visit the bustling market in the heart of the city, where you can find local handicrafts, fresh produce, and traditional food.
  • National Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Swaziland at this museum, which features exhibits on everything from ancient rock art to modern-day politics.
  • Mantenga Cultural Village: Experience traditional Swazi culture at this living museum, where you can watch dance performances, see craft demonstrations, and enjoy a traditional lunch.

Day 2: Hlane Royal National Park

  • Hlane Royal National Park: Drive to this stunning national park (approximately 1.5 hours) and spend the day exploring its diverse landscapes, including savannas, forests, and mountains.
  • Game Drives: Take a guided game drive in search of Swaziland’s Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros.
  • Birdwatching: Hlane is home to over 250 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Day 3: Malolotja National Park

  • Malolotja National Park: Drive to this scenic national park (approximately 2 hours) and hike through its stunning mountain landscapes.
  • Waterfalls: Visit the picturesque Malolotja Falls and take a refreshing swim in the natural pool.
  • Scenic Views: Take in the breathtaking views from the top of the mountains, where you can see for miles.

Day 4: Ezulwini Valley and Departure

  • Ezulwini Valley: Visit this picturesque valley, known as the “Valley of Heaven”, where you can take a leisurely horse ride or hike through the scenic countryside.
  • Craft Centres: Stop by one of the many craft centres in the valley, where you can find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
  • Departure: Return to King Mswati III International Airport for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: No visa is required for citizens of most countries, but it’s always best to check with the Swaziland Government website before travel.
  • Transportation: Rent a car or hire a driver for the duration of your trip. The roads in Swaziland are generally good, but 4x4 vehicles may be necessary for some national parks and rural areas.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Lilangeni (SZL), although the South African Rand (ZAR) is also widely accepted.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to stay safe in Swaziland, such as avoiding traveling at night and keeping valuables secure.

Other Things of Interest

  • Festivals: Time your trip with one of Swaziland’s many vibrant festivals, such as the Incwala Ceremony or the Bushfire Festival.
  • Food: Be sure to try some traditional Swazi dishes, such as seswaa (stewed meat) and emaSwati (cornmeal porridge).
  • Language: While English is an official language, you may also hear SiSwati spoken by locals. Greet them with a friendly “Sawubona!” (hello!).