Eswatini is rapidly becoming a southern African travel favorite, reporting an 11.5% rise in visitor arrivals in April compared with the previous year. Unlike more crowded safari hubs, Eswatini is winning over travelers with its intimate tempo and unique experiences—such as mountain biking alongside zebras and warthogs in the predator-free Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. And as the continent’s last absolute monarchy, the kingdom offers a living traditional culture, with the annual Umhlanga Reed Dance serving as a major draw for international visitors seeking authenticity. Regional connectivity is a key driver of this growth: Eswatini Air recently launched a new route linking the country to Lusaka, Zambia. This expansion, combined with the rise of community-led ecotourism projects like the Nsangwini Bushman Paintings, is positioning the kingdom as a sustainable and accessible destination for travelers visiting neighboring South Africa. For those planning a trip, experts recommend the dry winter months from May to September for the best wildlife viewing and cultural immersion.
Forbes Africa
