Eswatini is Surging travel industry with new visa free travel policy for 93 countries, including Australia, UAE, Japan & Russia – Travel And Tour World

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Eswatini is experiencing a significant boost in its travel industry following the introduction of a new visa-free travel policy for citizens of 93 countries, including Australia, UAE, Japan, and Russia. This strategic move aims to attract more international tourists, enhancing the country’s tourism sector. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions, Eswatini offers unique travel experiences that combine natural beauty with cultural immersion. The visa-free policy is expected to significantly increase visitor numbers and promote Eswatini as a top travel destination.

Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, is a small landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by Mozambique and South Africa. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, it offers unique travel experiences blending natural beauty with cultural immersion. In June 2024, Eswatini welcomed a record 83,940 tourists, a 36.5% increase from the previous year, highlighting its resurgence post-pandemic. The country’s traditional culture is a significant tourist draw, with most visitors arriving by road from South Africa.

G.D.P growth in Eswatini:
As of 2022, Eswatini’s nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) stood at $4,854,167,638 USD. The real GDP, adjusted for inflation, reached $4,189,641,988 USD. In 2022, the GDP growth rate was 3.91%, reflecting an increase of $183,120,954 USD compared to 2021, when the real GDP was $4,677,967,470 USD.

Following 93 countrires that can visit Eswatini without a Visa:

• Andorra
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belgium
• Belize
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Botswana
• Brazil
• Brunei
• Canada
• Chile
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Dominica
• Timor-Leste
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Gambia
• Germany
• Ghana
• Greece
• Grenada
• Guyana
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Jamaica
• Japan
• Kenya
• Kuwait
• Latvia
• Lesotho
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• North Macedonia
• Madagascar
• Malawi
• Malaysia
• Maldives
• Malta
• Mauritius
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• Nauru
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Papua New Guinea
• Poland
• Portugal
• Qatar
• Russia
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Samoa
• San Marino
• Serbia
• Seychelles
• Sierra Leone
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Tanzania
• Tonga
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkey
• Tuvalu
• Uganda
• Ukraine
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Uruguay
• Vanuatu
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

Airports in Eswatini:

• King Mswati III International Airport: As the main international gateway to Eswatini, King Mswati III International Airport handles the majority of the country’s passenger traffic. Opened in 2014, it is located approximately 70 kilometers east of Mbabane, the capital city. The airport features modern facilities and services, catering to both domestic and international flights. It is designed to accommodate large volumes of passengers, significantly boosting the country’s tourism and business travel sectors.
• Matsapha Airport:It is located near Manzini, was previously the primary airport in Eswatini before the opening of King Mswati III International Airport. It now mainly serves as a base for charter flights and private aviation, with reduced passenger traffic compared to its peak years. The airport still plays a vital role in the country’s aviation infrastructure, supporting various aviation activities.
• Simunye Airstrip:It primarily serves the local area around the town of Simunye. It is a small airstrip used mainly for private and charter flights. Passenger traffic here is relatively low, consisting mainly of business travelers and tourists visiting nearby attractions or the sugar estates.
• Nhlangano Airfield :It is a small airfield located near the town of Nhlangano in the southern part of Eswatini. It handles a minimal amount of passenger traffic, mostly from private flights and local air services. The airfield is crucial for connecting the southern regions with other parts of the country.
• Matsapha Airport : As noted earlier, Matsapha Airport was the main international airport before King Mswati III International Airport took over. It now handles primarily charter flights and private aviation with reduced passenger traffic, serving as a supplementary facility to the main international airport.

Airlines in Eswatini:

• Eswatini Airlink– Description: The national carrier of Eswatini, operating in partnership with South African Airlink, providing scheduled flights between King Mswati III International Airport and Johannesburg.
• NAC Charter– Description: Offers private and corporate charter flights within Eswatini and to neighboring countries, catering to business and personal travel needs.
• Federal Air– Description: Provides charter services focused on tourism and safari travel, often collaborating with local tour operators to offer customized travel experiences.

Accomodations & Hospitality in Eswatini:
Eswatini offers diverse accommodation options to suit various traveler needs. Luxury hotels (20%) like Royal Swazi Spa and Summerfield Botanical Garden provide high-end amenities. Mid-range hotels (30%) such as Mountain Inn and The George Hotel offer comfort and excellent service. Budget-friendly options (30%) include Mantenga Lodge and Veki’s Village. Traditional and boutique accommodations (20%) feature Reilly’s Rock Hilltop Lodge and Mkhaya Game Reserve Stone Camp. Known for its warm hospitality, Eswatini offers cultural experiences and high service standards. Specialty stays like Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge and Hawane Resort provide unique, eco-friendly options.

Discover the Natural Splendor of Eswatini: A Paradise for Nature Enthusiasts:
Eswatini, a small landlocked country in Southern Africa, is celebrated for its diverse natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. It features a variety of ecosystems, including mountains, savannas, forests, and wetlands. The western Highveld region has rolling hills and mountains, while the eastern Lubombo Mountains offer dramatic scenery. Protected reserves like Malolotja Nature Reserve and Hlane Royal National Park safeguard Eswatini’s rich forests.

Major rivers like the Great Usutu River support diverse wildlife, with wetlands perfect for birdwatching. National parks such as Mkhaya Game Reserve and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary provide opportunities to see elephants, rhinos, and giraffes. Eswatini’s climate varies from temperate in the Highveld to subtropical in the Lowveld, enhancing habitat diversity. Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and game drives, Eswatini ensures its natural beauty and biodiversity are preserved for future generations.

Major Events & Festivals in Eswatini:

• Kudla Kwesintfu Festival
  A three-day celebration featuring traditional Eswatini music, dance, and local cuisine. Held at Khelekhele Lodge & Campsite, it offers a cultural immersion experience along the Ngwempisi River.
• Schweppes Eswatini Gin Festival
  An event dedicated to gin enthusiasts, featuring tastings, mixology workshops, and live entertainment. Hosted at Malkerns Country Club, it promises a delightful afternoon and evening of spirits and fun.
• Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival 2024
  A vibrant festival celebrating food, music, and lifestyle, taking place over three days at House On Fire, Malandela’s Farm. It includes culinary displays, live performances, and artisan markets.
• Eswatini Kota Festival
  A lively event at Manzini Club showcasing the popular South African street food, Kota, with a variety of fillings and flavors. The festival features food stalls, live music, and family-friendly activities.
• Golf Festival – Malelane Golf Club – Day 1
  A golf event at Malelane Golf Club in Mpumalanga, South Africa, offering a day of competitive golfing in a picturesque setting. Participants can enjoy the sport while networking with fellow golf enthusiasts.

Hotels to stay in Eswatini

• Sibebe View Villa
  Located near the iconic Sibebe Rock, Sibebe View Villa offers stunning panoramic views and luxurious accommodations in a serene setting. This villa is perfect for those seeking tranquility and proximity to natural wonders.
• Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane
  Situated in the heart of Mbabane, Hilton Garden Inn provides modern amenities and comfortable rooms, ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy easy access to the city’s main attractions and business districts.
• Sibebe Resort
  Nestled close to the famous Sibebe Rock, Sibebe Resort combines adventure and relaxation with its outdoor activities and comfortable lodgings. It offers a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
• Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels
  Overlooking the beautiful Ezulwini Valley, Mountain View International Hotel offers upscale accommodations with excellent service and facilities. This hotel is a great choice for visitors seeking luxury and breathtaking views.
• Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane
  A prominent hotel in Mbabane, Hilton Garden Inn features contemporary rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining options. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring the city and conducting business.

Tourist attraction places in Eswatini:

• Mlilwane Game Sanctuary
  A popular nature reserve offering a variety of wildlife and scenic landscapes, perfect for game drives and hiking. Visitors can enjoy activities like birdwatching and horseback riding.
• Hlane Royal National Park
  Eswatini’s largest national park, known for its impressive lion and elephant populations. It offers guided game drives and birdwatching opportunities in a vast, unspoiled environment.
• Sibebe Rock
  The world’s second-largest monolith, offering challenging hikes and stunning panoramic views. It’s a must-visit for adventurous travelers seeking a unique outdoor experience.
• Mantenga Nature Reserve
  Home to the picturesque Mantenga Falls and the Mantenga Cultural Village. The reserve offers scenic hikes, wildlife spotting, and insights into traditional Swazi culture.
• Mkhaya Game Reserve
  A sanctuary for endangered species, providing exclusive wildlife experiences. Guests can stay in rustic stone cottages and participate in guided safari tours.
• Malolotja National Park
  Renowned for its rugged terrain, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing the natural beauty of Eswatini’s highlands.
• Execution Rock
  A historically significant site offering breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. The rock holds cultural importance and provides a unique hiking experience.
• Swazi Candles
  A popular candle shop where visitors can watch artisans create beautifully crafted candles. It’s a great place to purchase unique, handmade souvenirs.

Eswatini, a small vibrant nation in Southern Africa, is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. It offers experiences ranging from traditional festivals and wildlife reserves to outdoor activities and modern amenities. The blend of mountains, savannas, and lush forests provides a stunning backdrop for adventure and relaxation. With ongoing efforts in tourism and conservation, Eswatini continues to attract visitors seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty.