£1 SZL 22.78
Today
4:52 am
+2h from you
Weather in Eswatini
Eswatini
24°
Thunderstorm
Fri
18
24
Sat
18
27
Sun
18
23
Mon
18
24
Tue
17
22
SPF level in Eswatini
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Eswatini
Tipping in Eswatini
Tipping is customary in Eswatini for various services, although not always explicitly expected, it is appreciated for good service.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
Small change or 10% for good service
Taxi
Round up the fare or 10% for good service
Hotel Porter
5-10 SZL per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
10-20 SZL per day
Tour Guide
10% of the tour price or a fixed amount depending on the length and quality of the tour
Safety in Eswatini
Tips for British travellers
Eswatini is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid walking in the downtown areas of Mbabane and Manzini after dark.
Keep valuables in a safe place and avoid carrying large amounts of money or wearing expensive-looking jewellery and watches.
Criminal activity such as casual theft and muggings usually increases during the pre-Christmas festive season.
Punishments for possessing or smuggling narcotic drugs can be severe and lead to imprisonment.
Drink-driving is a serious offence with a lower legal alcohol limit, and police operate random roadside checks.
Bonus tips:
You must have both the 1949 version of the international driving permit and your UK driving licence with you to drive legally.
Hire car companies often require customers to have a year of driving experience.
Driving in Eswatini
A valid UK driving license is required. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
60 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
933
Police
999
Ambulance
977
Save 933 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Eswatini
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type M
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Eswatini uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with Type M plugs. Visitors from the UK will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Card payments are accepted in major establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in urban areas. However, smaller businesses, markets, and rural areas may only accept cash.
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1094
ATMs in Eswatini
ATMs are primarily found in larger towns and tourist areas. It's advisable to have cash, especially when traveling to more rural regions.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are available, but usage is subject to network availability. Using ATMs connected to major banks is recommended. Ensure you have Chip and PIN enabled on your card.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates and packages before traveling. EU roaming agreements no longer apply post-Brexit, so standard international rates will apply unless you have a specific roaming add-on.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 200 SZL (~£8.50)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Eswatini Mobile, MTN Eswatini
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in hotels, lodges, and some restaurants and cafes in larger towns. Coverage can be limited and speeds may vary.
Average speed
20 Mbps
Internet access is growing, but not as widely available as in Europe. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more reliable data access.
Health & vaccinations in Eswatini
Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before you travel to Eswatini. Check the policy details carefully, especially regarding coverage for pre-existing conditions and adventure activities.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date advice on vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before travelling to Eswatini. Consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Malaria is a risk in Eswatini, so take appropriate precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and sleeping under a mosquito net. HIV/AIDS is prevalent; take appropriate precautions. Waterborne diseases are also a risk, so drink bottled or boiled water.
Calling Eswatini
Country code
+268
To call Eswatini from the UK, dial 00 268 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Mbabane from the UK, dial 00 268 2404 2581.
To make an international call from Eswatini, dial 00 followed by the country code and the phone number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good in urban areas.
UK Embassy in Eswatini
British High Commission Mbabane
2nd Floor, Lilunga House, Plot 115, Somhlolo Road, Mbabane, Eswatini
Airports in Eswatini
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.