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Visa Information
Visitors from Southern Africa, U.S.A, United Kingdom and about 60 other countries do not need a visa to enter Swaziland for up to 2 months in a year. You will normally be given 14 days in the country but this can be extended at the Immigration Department in Swaziland. For the full list of countries that do not require visas, and to get more information, go to the Swaziland High Commission in London consular page.

To apply for a visa, contact your nearest Swazi Embassy. The full list is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.
Travel Advice
There are not many medical issues to worry about when visiting Swaziland. However, be sensible and take precautions where necessary. Here are some tips:

1. Have travel insurance. Basic medical facilities in Swaziland are good, and if you are involved in a serious accident or any other emergency, facilities are available for medical evacuation to South Africa, usually by helicopter. But this is only if you are fully insured or you can pay in advance for your treatment.
2. HIV/AIDS There is an AIDS problem in Swaziland as in most Southern African countries. Protect yourself against infection by using a condom.
3. Malaria Swaziland is not entirely affected by Malaria, particularly you stay in the main areas like the highveld, Mbabane, Manzini and Ezulwini. However, some parts of the country like Hlane have malaria. You should check before you travel and take suitable medication.
4. Drive safely. There is a high incidence of road accidents in Swaziland. Stay well clear of mad drivers and drive carefully!
5. Bilharzia. This is a type of flatworm that is found in water so be careful crossing or bathing in rivers.
6. Tickbites. Camping is a fun way to enjoy the country. But use insect repellant, wear long socks or boots because tick bite fever has been known to affect some visitors.
7. Finally, wash your fruits and vegetables. This is just common sense.
Currency
The official currency is Emalangeni. South African Rands are accepted in most places. But some shops will accept South Africa notes but not coins, work it out!
US Dollars are not accepted anywhere. It is best to change travellers cheques at banks. Be sure to have the original receipt otherwise the bank may refuse to change your cheques. Also be aware that banks in Swaziland normally open between 10.00am and 2.00pm.
Most places accept credit or debit cards and there are international cash points for VISA and Mastercard in Mbabane, Manzini and Ezulwini.
Basic Siswati phrases
Swaziland is an English speaking country. You should be able to find someone who speaks English to help you out if you have a problem. But if you fancy trying some Siswati, here are some basic phrases.
Greetings:
Sawubona                           Hello
Yebo                                     Respnse to a greeting
Sanibonani                        Greeting more than one person
Unjani                                 How are you
Ngikhona                             I am fine
Unjani wena                         I'm fine, how are you?
Ngiphilile                              I am well
Siyavusela                           literally, we are greeting you, but generally means hello
Courtesy:
Ngiyabonga                        Thank you
Food and eating:
Kudla                                    Food
Ngilambile                          I'm hungry
Sidlani                                 What are we eating
For an enthnologue of Swazi languages, visit this site.
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