Road Trips in Eswatini

Eswatini is a true paradise for those who are into safari. Visit the Hlane Royal National Park to admire the diversity of animal and plant species. Its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes will stay in travelers’ memories for a long time. The nature reserve offers well-maintained game paths.

For a fuller immersion in the culture of Eswatini travel to Lobamba, which is the country’s capital. The capital offers an interesting insight into the more well-known landmarks, including Lozitha Palace and the Eswatini Parliament. The National Museum of Eswatini will be also worth your attention.

Mbabane is yet another jewel of Eswatini. It is full of low-rise traditional housing and beautiful palm-lined paths. It is an ideal place to lose yourself and distance from the stresses and commotion of everyday life. The central place of this village is the popular Swazi Market.

One of the most beautiful places in Eswatini is, of course, Malkerns, located at a stone’s throw away from the Mlilwane Reserve. Surrounded by arid fields of corn, Malekrns will bring you closer to the local culture and everyday habits of Eswatini’s residents.

Suggested Road Trips in Eswatini

Taking a road trip through Eswatini is a fantastic way to explore and discover all that it has to offer. Here are three of the best and recommended road trips for first-timers in Eswatini:

• Ezulwini Valley Loop - The Ezulwini Valley is a popular tourist destination in Eswatini, and for good reason. The valley is surrounded by lush green hills, offering scenic views of the countryside. The loop road takes you through the valley and its attractions, including the Mantenga Cultural Village, which offers an insight into the traditional Swazi way of life, and the Mantenga Waterfall, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by nature.

• Sibebe Rock Loop - Sibebe Rock is the world's largest exposed granite dome and a must-visit destination in Eswatini. The loop road takes you through the scenic countryside to the rock, where you can hike to the top for spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you'll pass the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, and warthogs.

• Ngwenya Glass and Malolotja Nature Reserve Loop - This road trip takes you through the beautiful Malolotja Nature Reserve and to the Ngwenya Glass Factory, where you can witness skilled craftsmen creating stunning glassware from recycled glass. The reserve is home to many hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning landscapes that will leave you in awe.

No matter which road trip you choose in Eswatini, you are sure to encounter beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences that will make your journey unforgettable.

While travelling around Swaziland, you’ll have minibuses, local buses, and shared taxis at your disposal. Most of them travel between major cities. However, if you are interested in deeper exploration of more distant locations, it’s best to opt for a rental car. Car rental companies are available at international airports and in larger cities.

Surprisingly, Swaziland offers a well-maintained network of roads. However, there are a number of unpaved sections. That’s why it’s best to rent a 4x4 off-road vehicle to make your journey as pleasant as possible.

The most important thing to remember is the fact that Swaziland follows left-hand traffic. You need to have your seatbelts fastened at all times. Whenever you see a royal motorcade approaching, you need to pull over and stop your vehicle.

The speed limits that you are supposed to follow are 60 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h in rural areas, and 120 km/h on highways. You can use either your own driver’s licence or an International Driving Permit.

If you face a car breakdown, be wary of local residents and strangers who would like to help you. In such a way, you’ll avoid the risk of theft and hijacking. What’s more, avoid unlit areas and driving at night.

When taking a road trip in Eswatini, there are a few things to be aware of:

• Road conditions - Some roads in Eswatini can be in poor condition, especially in rural areas. It's important to be cautious when driving and be prepared for rough terrain, potholes, and unpaved roads.

• Wildlife - Eswatini is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and other large animals. It's essential to be aware of your surroundings and to drive cautiously, especially when entering game reserves or wildlife areas.

• Border crossings - Eswatini is a landlocked country, and travelers often need to cross borders when entering or exiting the country. It's essential to have all the necessary travel documents, such as passports and visas, and to be aware of any potential border crossing delays or regulations.

• Safety - As with any travel, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety while on the road in Eswatini. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid driving at night, and take necessary precautions to secure your belongings.

• Weather - Eswatini experiences a subtropical climate with rainy summers and dry winters. It's important to check the weather conditions before setting out on a road trip and to be prepared for any changes in weather, such as sudden thunderstorms.

By being aware of these factors, you can have a safe and enjoyable road trip in Eswatini.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Eswatini is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally mild, and there is less risk of encountering heavy rains or flooding, which can make some roads impassable.

In addition to the favorable weather conditions, the dry season also offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Many animals congregate around watering holes during this time, making it easier to spot them while driving through game reserves.

However, it's important to note that the dry season is also peak tourist season, and popular attractions can be crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April/May or September/October.

It's also worth noting that Eswatini experiences a subtropical climate, and temperatures can vary greatly depending on the region and altitude. Be sure to pack appropriately for the climate and check weather conditions before setting out on your road trip.

The cost of a road trip in Eswatini will depend on various factors such as your mode of transport, accommodation, activities, and food expenses. However, generally speaking, Eswatini is an affordable destination, and you can enjoy a comfortable road trip without breaking the bank.

Renting a car in Eswatini can cost anywhere between 200-700 SZL (Swazi Lilangeni) per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company. If you plan to travel extensively, a 4x4 vehicle may be necessary, particularly if you plan to visit some of the more remote areas of the country.

Accommodation options in Eswatini range from camping and backpacker hostels to luxury lodges and hotels. Prices can vary greatly depending on your preferences and location, but generally speaking, you can expect to pay around 300-800 SZL per night for mid-range accommodation.

Food in Eswatini is generally affordable, particularly if you stick to local eateries and street food stalls. A basic meal can cost as little as 30 SZL, while a more substantial meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around 100-200 SZL.

Overall, a daily budget of around 800-1200 SZL per person should be sufficient to cover most expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation. This equates to around 5,600-8,400 SZL per week and 22,400-33,600 SZL per month, per person.

Of course, the actual cost of your road trip will depend on your specific itinerary and travel style, so it's a good idea to plan and budget accordingly. It's also worth noting that Eswatini uses both the Swazi Lilangeni and the South African Rand, so it's a good idea to have both currencies on hand.

There are several guidebooks and road maps that can be useful for a road trip in Eswatini, also known as Swaziland. Here are some recommendations:

• "Eswatini (Swaziland) - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture" by Ian Michler - This guidebook provides useful information about the culture, customs, and etiquette in Eswatini. It can help travelers navigate social situations and understand the local way of life.

• "Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini (Travel Guide)" by Lonely Planet - This comprehensive guidebook covers all three countries and includes detailed information on attractions, accommodations, and dining options. It also includes a section on road trips in Eswatini.

• "Eswatini Map" by Map Studio - This detailed map of Eswatini includes information on major highways, back roads, and attractions. It can be a useful tool for planning a road trip and navigating while on the road.

• "Road Trip Eswatini" by Nomad Adventure Tours - This guidebook specifically focuses on road trips in Eswatini and includes information on scenic routes, attractions, accommodations, and dining options. It also includes suggested itineraries for different lengths of road trips.

• "Eswatini Adventure Map" by Tracks4Africa - This map is designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts and includes information on hiking trails, camping sites, and other outdoor activities. It can be a useful tool for planning a road trip that includes outdoor adventures.

Overall, these guidebooks and road maps can help travelers plan and navigate a road trip in Eswatini, ensuring a fun and safe adventure in this beautiful country.