available in Swaziland
offering Safaris
Reserves and Wildlife
Areas
Overview
Despite being the smallest country in the southern hemisphere, the Kingdom of Swaziland packs a punch with everything it has to offer, making it a hidden gem for Swaziland safari holidays. This country is brimming with colourful rich culture, laid-back friendly locals, natural beauty and amazing wildlife – it is home to black and white rhino. With a progressive attitude to wildlife preservation, it boasts a fantastic collection of national parks and game reserves which are ideal for Swaziland safari tours. There are adventurous activities such as rafting, mountain biking and hiking to be experienced in the stunning landscapes. Swaziland tours often combine wildlife viewing with cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
Swaziland has 17 protected wildlife areas, with some 500 species of bird and 132 species of mammals recorded, including rhino, giraffe and elephants, and predators such as jackal and hyena. Big cats are a little more elusive. In Hlane Royal National Park, the country’s largest protected area, four of the Big Five can be seen – lion, leopard, elephant and rhino – as well as hippo, giraffe, crocodile and many antelope species. There’s also a huge variety of birdlife including the highest density of nesting white-backed vultures in Africa. Planning a Swaziland safari holiday here is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts, thanks to the country’s commitment to conservation and the sheer variety of species. Swaziland safaris provide an intimate wildlife experience in one of Africa’s most compact yet diverse destinations.
Mkhaya Game Reserve, a swathe of unspoilt wilderness in the lowveld, is one of the highlights of any Swaziland safari tour, especially for those keen to see rhino up close. It offers some of the best opportunities to see black and white rhino on foot as well as by vehicle. Other species are roan and sable antelope, tsessebe, elephant, giraffe, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and exquisite birdlife, including the elusive Narina Trojan.
The first protected area in the kingdom was Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary which remains to this day a picturesque, secluded sanctuary in the Ezulwini Valley. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and abundant wildlife by game viewing vehicle, on foot, horseback or mountain bike, in the company of excellent Swazi guides. For those wondering about the best time to visit Swaziland, the dry winter months from May to September are ideal for wildlife viewing and exploring its stunning reserves.
FAQ – Safari in Swaziland
- What makes Swaziland a great safari destination?
Swaziland offers rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and a range of national parks, making it perfect for immersive safari tours and conservation-focused adventures.
- Where can I see the Big Five in Swaziland?
Hlane Royal National Park is Swaziland’s top spot to see four of the Big Five, lion, leopard,
elephant, and rhino, alongside hippos, giraffes, crocodiles, and many antelope species. - Which animals can I expect to see on a Swaziland tour?
You can see rhino, giraffe, elephant, jackal, hyena, crocodile, antelope, and over 500 bird species including Africa’s densest population of white-backed vultures.
- What activities are available in Swaziland's national parks?
Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, horseback rides, mountain biking, rafting, and hiking with experienced local guides across Swaziland’s protected reserves.
- What is Mkhaya Game Reserve known for?
Mkhaya is renowned for close-up rhino sightings, both on foot and by vehicle. It also hosts rare species like roan and sable antelope, tsessebe, and the elusive Narina Trojan.
- When is the best time to visit Swaziland for wildlife viewing?
The best time for wildlife spotting in Swaziland is during the dry winter season, from May to September, when animals are easier to view around water sources.
- What is special about Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary?
Mlilwane, the kingdom’s first protected area, offers scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and a range of activities like walking, biking, and horseback safaris in the Ezulwini Valley.
Travel Seasons
- Nov-Mar Summer – rainy season with thunderstorms, hottest time of the year
- Apr-Oct Winter – dry season, average temperature of 20°C, hot sunny days but chilly nights
- The four climatic regions are Highveld, Middleveld, Lowveld and Lubombo plateau. The Highveld temperature is temperate and seldom uncomfortably hot, while the Lowveld may record temperatures around 40°C in summer
General Information
- Capital city: Mbabane (executive), Lobamba (legislative)
- Largest city: Mbabane
- Currency: Swazi lilangeni, South African rand
- Languages: Swazi, English
- Size: 17,364 sq km (6,705 sq mi)
- Population: 1,343,098 (estimate 2016)
Health & Safety
- Travel insurance is essential for all international travel. Click below to find out more:
- The CDC recommends the following vaccinations for Swaziland: hepatitis A and typhoid. Check with your doctor which other vaccinations you might need and make sure your routine vaccinations are all up-to-date.
- Malaria is a risk in the eastern regions so talk to your doctor about the best prophylaxis to take.
- It’s best to stick to bottled drinking water.
Pros
Pros
- Wealth of wildlife and birdlife
- Progessive attitude towards wildlife protection
- Wide range of activities
- Rich and active culture
- Retains it’s slow-down-this-is-Africa feeling
- Varied accommodation options
- Small to travel around
Cons
Cons
- Medical facilities are generally poor and in serious cases a transfer to South Africa is necessary. Ensure you have good travel insurance.
- Security checks from border forces and the local police aren’t uncommon, especially for tourists. Remain patient so the checks are completed quickly and without problems.
Arriving in Swaziland
- The main airport is King Mswati III International Airport. The only airline that flies in/out is Swaziland Airlink from Johannesburg. There are daily flights which take about 45 mins.
- Many travellers arrive into Swaziland overland at one of the 13 Swaziland-South Africa border posts.
Getting Around
- For car rentals, it can be be cheaper to hire a car in South Africa and drive it over the border (you need a letter, which costs about R500, from the rental company to cross the border)
- There is a good road network, most major roads are tarred and most unpaved roads are in a reasonably good condition. Be aware on unpaved and steep roads after heavy rains and look out for speeding minibuses and wandering cattle.
Visas
- Tourist visas are not required for citizens of most Commonwealth countries, the USA, Japan, most EU countries, some others. Check visa requirements here >>
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Swaziland Safaris
Jewel of the North & East
- 13 Days
The remote and pristine northern and eastern regions of South Africa are every nature and wildlife lover’s...
- Country:South Africa, Swaziland,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:13 Days
- Start/end:Start in Johannesburg, end in Johannesburg
Family Safari to Eswatini
- 13 Days
Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) welcomes families with its friendly attitude, safe and secure environment...
- Country:Swaziland,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:13 Days
- Start/end:Start in Johannesburg, self-drive to Swaziland, end in Johannesburg
Guided South Africa Explorer
- 21 Days
Enjoy an African adventure tour through South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. Amazing experiences include...
- Country:South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:21 Days
- Start/end:Start in Johannesburg, end in Cape Town or reversed
Kruger, Lesotho & Swaziland Group Tour
- 15 Days
This adventurous group safari by truck takes you to fantastic wildlife viewing spots; Kruger National...
- Country:South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:15 Days
- Start/end:Start in Johannesburg, end in Port Elizabeth or reversed
Craft and Safari in Eswatini (Swaziland)
- 10 Days
Learn traditional handicrafts in Eswatini, embark on adventurous safari excursions and experience local...
- Country:Swaziland,
- Departures:Array
- Length:10 Days
- Start/end:Start/end in Johannesburg
Discover Eswatini
- 12 Days
Sense Africa provides this small group, off the beaten track guided tour to Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)...
- Country:Swaziland,
- Departures:Array
- Length:12 Days
- Start/end:Start in Mlilwane, end in Hlane
Guided Bush & Mozambique Dive Safari
- 15 Days
From game viewing in South Africa and Swaziland to diving the reefs of Mozambique, this fantastic tour...
- Country:South Africa, Mozambique, Swaziland,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:15 Days
- Start/end:Start in Johannesburg, end in Johannesburg
Self-Drive National Park Combo
- 18 Days
This self-drive combo takes you to the very best national parks in South Africa. Highlights include the...
- Country:South Africa, Swaziland,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:18 Days
- Start/end:Start/end in Johannesburg
Partners offering Safaris in Swaziland
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