Eswatini
Travel tips for Eswatini: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cards widely accepted. Recent 2026 travelers report putting 99% of their spending on cards, and major parks like Hlane and Mlilwane introduced a Zero Cash Policy in July 2026. However, you still need local currency or South African Rand for public transit, small vendors, and rural areas.
Try the food
- Sishwala: A thick, hearty porridge made from maize meal and dried beans, typically served alongside meat or vegetable stews.
- Incwancwa: A sour porridge made from fermented maize meal, often enjoyed as a comforting breakfast dish.
- Emasi: Thick, fermented milk that is traditionally poured over crushed maize or eaten on its own.
- Sitfubi: A rich and creamy dish made by cooking fresh milk and mixing it with maize meal.
Essentials
- Plugs
- Type C / Type M
- Voltage
- 230V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Left side
- Tap water
- Avoid — buy bottled
- Emergency
- 999 (police), 977 (ambulance), 933 (fire)
- SIM tip
- MTN Eswatini provides the most reliable nationwide coverage, and you can easily purchase a prepaid SIM card at the airport or official kiosks by presenting your passport.
Etiquette
Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants, and it is considered polite to hand over and receive money or items using your right hand while supporting your right forearm with your left hand.