1. Check Visa Requirements for Eswatini and South Africa: You’ll need to confirm both your Eswatini visa and any required South African transit or multiple-entry visa. Processing times vary, so allow around four weeks for planning and book refundable or flexible flight tickets.
2. Cash Is Preferred: Cash is widely used for park entry fees, campsite costs, and at local markets. Prices within protected areas are often about 30% higher than in cities. Budget approximately 300–600 Swazi lilangeni per day, carrying small denominations.
3. Take Malaria Precautions Seriously: Lowland areas pose a malaria risk. Consult a healthcare provider before your trip. Use mosquito nets or electric repellents in campsites, and limit exposed skin during dawn and dusk.
4. Always Ask Before Taking Photos: Photography is not allowed during royal ceremonies, at royal palaces, or near military and police sites. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people in markets. Leaving a tip of 1–2 local coins is a common local practice.
5. Show Respect for the Royal Family: Be respectful when discussing the king or the royal family. If you see the royal motorcade, follow local custom by stopping your vehicle quietly, without opening windows or making noise.
6. Bring the Right Power Adapters: Some campsites in Hlane National Park may experience power outages at night. Bring UK-style three-pin adapters, power banks, and spare camera batteries.
7. Leave Space for Souvenirs: Popular souvenirs include glassware, batik textiles, and grass weaving. Prices are generally best at the Manzini Market. Ask vendors to wrap glass items in layers of newspaper and bubble wrap.
8. Dress in Layers for Variable Weather: Highland mornings can be near freezing, while afternoons are often hot. For safaris, dress in layers (onion-style) and bring a windproof jacket. Hats and scarves are useful.
9. Get Travel Insurance and Emergency Contacts: Purchase insurance that covers medical evacuation. Keep emergency contact details for your tour operator and the nearest embassy or consulate in South Africa. Serious health issues may require transfer to a South African hospital.
10. Drink Bottled Water and Eat Cautiously: Tap water is not safe to drink—stick to bottled water. Roadside barbecue stalls may be tempting, but if you have a sensitive stomach, try food from campsite restaurants first.

Additional Notes: Government offices and border crossings may be busier and close for public holidays around September 6th, Eswatini’s Independence Day. If you plan to attend the Reed Dance festival, official venues are usually announced about a month in advance. Check with your hotel or tour operator whether it’s open to the public that day. Medical resources are limited, so carry essential medications and mosquito repellent. Self-driving travelers should carry enough drinking water and a spare tire.

Bargaining is acceptable for handicrafts, with final prices often around 70–80% of the initial quote. Keep the negotiation polite. Avoid buying animal products such as feathers or skins, as many are restricted for export. Choose glassware, batik, and grass weaving from certified workshops for the safest souvenir options.