Eswatini Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter Eswatini without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days within any 180-day period.
Spanish citizens can enter Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) without a visa for stays up to 30 days. The country is one of Africa's smallest nations and last remaining absolute monarchy.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
Fines and potential complications at departure.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Eswatini is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates in tourist areas. Avoid driving at night due to pedestrians and animals on roads. The 2021 civil unrest has calmed but avoid large gatherings. HIV/AIDS prevalence is high - take appropriate precautions.
Money & Costs
Currency
E Swazi Lilangeni (SZL)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $40 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $180+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated. 10% in restaurants. Tips for guides and hotel staff are welcome.
Practical Info
Power
Type M, 230V 50Hz
Driving
Left side
Emergency
999 (Emergency), 2404 2221 (Police Mbabane)
Getting There
Main Airports
Manzini (SHO)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Eswatini is during the dry winter months from May to September when game viewing is optimal. The Umhlanga (Reed Dance) ceremony occurs in August/September and the Incwala ceremony in December/January. Summer (November-March) brings rain but lush landscapes.
Cultural Notes
Eswatini maintains strong traditional culture alongside modernity. The King (Ngwenyama) and Queen Mother (Ndlovukazi) hold significant power. The Umhlanga Reed Dance and Incwala ceremonies are highlights of Swazi culture, celebrating fertility and kingship. Traditional dress and customs remain important.
Insider Tips
English and siSwati are official languages. The Lilangeni is the currency (pegged to the South African Rand, which is also accepted). The country is small and can be explored in a few days. Handicrafts like sisal and candles are famous. The mountain and bushveld landscapes are scenic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for Eswatini?
No, Spanish citizens can enter Eswatini without a visa for up to 30 days. You just need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity and proof of onward travel. Entry is straightforward whether flying in or crossing from South Africa or Mozambique.
What is the Umhlanga Reed Dance?
The Umhlanga is an annual ceremony in August/September where thousands of unmarried young women gather reeds and present them to the Queen Mother, symbolizing their virtue and paying tribute to her. It's one of Africa's most colorful cultural events with traditional dress, singing, and dancing. Tourists can respectfully observe the public portions.
How do I combine Eswatini with South Africa?
Eswatini is surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique, making it easy to include in a regional trip. From Johannesburg, it's about 4-5 hours drive. Many visitors combine Eswatini with Kruger National Park (nearby) and the Drakensberg. The country is small enough to explore in 2-3 days before continuing to other destinations.
What can I see in Eswatini?
Highlights include: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (hiking and wildlife), Hlane Royal National Park (lions, elephants), Ngwenya Glass Factory (glass blowing), Swazi Candles craft center, Mantenga Cultural Village, Malolotja Nature Reserve (stunning landscapes), and the Sibebe Rock (second-largest monolith in the world). The country packs a lot into a small area.
Why did Swaziland change its name to Eswatini?
In 2018, King Mswati III announced the country would revert to its original name Eswatini, meaning "Land of the Swazis" in siSwati. The change aimed to fully break from the colonial-era name and assert cultural identity. Both names may still be encountered, but Eswatini is the official name.