Eswatini Newsletter

MARCH 2026

Eswatini Unveils Stunning New Destination Brochure & Directory with Big Plans for 2026

The Kingdom of Eswatini has launched a beautifully crafted new Destination Brochure, marking its first major print showcase of the country in five years and signalling a renewed push to elevate Eswatini’s presence on the international tourism stage. A brand new Accommodation & Tourism Directory has also been developed, with annual updates planned.

Eswatini Welcomes New Petit Futé Guide Showcasing the Kingdom to French Travellers

The Eswatini Tourism Authority proudly welcomes the publication of the new Petit Futé guide to Mozambique & Eswatini 2026–2027, a highly influential addition to the French travel market that places the Kingdom firmly in the spotlight for French-speaking travellers. Published by Petit Futé, one of France’s most respected and widely used travel guide series, the new edition offers updated and in-depth coverage of Eswatini.

Eswatini Air Launches Flights to Lusaka, Zambia Effective 1 April 2026

Eswatini Air, national airline of the Kingdom of Eswatini, is pleased to announce the launch of scheduled flights to Lusaka, Zambia, effective 1 April 2026, marking another significant milestone in the airline’s regional expansion strategy. This network expansion to Lusaka is part of an ongoing commitment to improving regional connectivity. The route represents an important step towards the airline’s growth strategy, and it looks forward to serving both business and leisure travellers between Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa.

Big Game Parks Announces Exciting Line-Up of 2026 Events in Eswatini’s Premier Wildlife Reserves

Big Game Parks, the custodians of some of Eswatini’s most iconic protected areas, is proud to unveil its 2026 calendar of outdoor experiences and events. Managing renowned conservation areas including Hlane Royal National Park, Mlilwane Game Sanctuary, Mkhaya Game Reserve, and KaMsholo Bushveld Safaris, Big Game Parks continues to blend conservation, adventure, and community through a diverse range of events designed for nature lovers, families, and explorers alike.

Piggs Peak to Host 3rd International Responsible Tourism Conference

Tourism leaders, government representatives, businesses and community stakeholders will gather in Piggs Peak on 28 April 2026 for the International Responsible Tourism Conference, an important platform aimed at advancing sustainable and responsible tourism practices in Eswatini.

Hosted at Piggs Peak Hotel, the conference will take place under the theme “From Commitment to Action: Advancing Responsible Tourism in Eswatini.”

Eswatini witnessed return of the annual Marula Festival in February

The Kingdom of Eswatini began celebrations last month for its annual traditional Marula Festival, or Buganu Festival as it is known locally. Festivities took place from 27 February – 1 March at the Buhleni Royal Residence.  The festival is increasing in popularity, and becoming one of the country’s most exciting traditional ceremonies. 

Study shows E121.2 million generated for Eswatini’s economy by MTN Bushfire 2025

In a landmark development for arts, culture and economic policy in Africa, a newly released Economic Impact Assessment by the North-West University (NWU) in South Africa has found that MTN Bushfire 2025 generated a staggering E121.2 million towards Eswatini’s economy. The independent study represents one of the most comprehensive, data-driven evaluations to date of the festival’s full economic footprint in Eswatini. It marks a significant turning point in how cultural events are valued, funded and leveraged for long-term sustainable development.

Mantenga Lifestyle & Craft Centre Welcomes New African Brands and Expands Artisan Offerings

Mantenga Lifestyle & Craft Centre continues to expand its vibrant retail community with the arrival of exciting new brands and offerings that celebrate African creativity, craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. The Centre has recently welcomed Lulba Afrika, a vibrant, woman-led luxury lifestyle brand, further strengthening Mantenga’s reputation as a destination for distinctive African fashion, craft and design. Adding to the Centre’s growing selection of authentic African products, The Delightful Enchantment has also officially become the Ezulwini stockist for Ngwenya Glass, giving visitors even more reason to stop and explore.

Latest Updates from Melula Travel with Deep Dive into Incwala Ceremony

Melula Travel has released its latest update, highlighting cultural celebrations, destination experiences, travel services and essential visitor information for the Kingdom of eSwatini. This edition includes articles about Incwala Ceremony, Royal Jozini boat safaris, and discovering Eswatini’s local cuisine.

Destination Eswatini: #AdventureAwaits

Against the backdrop of the iconic Nyonyane Mountain and the serene plains of the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, the Kingdom of Eswatini officially heralded the start of the 2026 holiday season. Under the vibrant banner of Destination Eswatini: #AdventureAwaits, the Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) launched its annual Easter Campaign, signaling a bold invitation to domestic and regional travelers to “Unwrap Your Adventure” in the heart of Southern Africa.

Eswatini Tourism Surges as International Arrival Numbers Continue to Climb

Eswatini is becoming an increasingly popular destination, with arrival statistics showing strong and sustained growth. The country welcomed over one million international visitors in 2025, while 2026 has started with continued momentum, recording a 7.9% rise in January and an impressive 16.3% increase in February arrivals.

The following articles analyse the data further:

Not discovered Eswatini yet?

"Africa in a nutshell.”

It may be a cliché but there is no better way to describe Eswatini (Swaziland). This tiny nation - one of Africa’s last monarchies - packs in an extraordinary variety of riches. Nature lovers can track down rhinos in the wild lowveld or seek out rare birds in the rugged highveld. Historians can visit the world’s oldest known mine at Ngwenya or follow the colonial trail of the early settlers. And culture vultures can thrill to the Umhlanga and other festivals, as Eswatini celebrates its ancient traditions in spectacular style. Activities ranging from safaris, horse riding and river rafting to golf and thermal spas offer excitement and relaxation in equal measure. What’s more, Eswatini is friendly, safe and so compact that nowhere is more than two hours’ easy drive from the capital. 

So what are you waiting for? Africa’s most perfectly formed nation offers you a warm Swati welcome.