Eswatini Newsletter

AUGUST 2026

Cheetah’s reintroduced to Eswatini at Royal Jozini with dedicated Cheetah Walk now available

Four cheetahs have been successfully reintroduced to Eswatini, marking the return of the species to the Kingdom after an absence of more than 35 years and raising hopes that cheetah cubs could soon be born there for the first time in decades. The two male and two female cheetahs have been released into Royal Jozini Private Game Reserve as part of the Southern African cheetah metapopulation programme, a regional conservation initiative aimed at restoring and managing populations of the big cats across southern Africa.

Following the historic return of cheetahs to Eswatini, visitors to Royal Jozini can now experience these remarkable animals in a truly unique way. One of the most unforgettable experiences available at Royal Jozini Private Game Reserve is the opportunity to accompany experienced rangers on a Cheetah Walk.

Award-Winning Travel Writer Jonathan Ramael Shares His Complete Guide to Eswatini

Travel journalist and photographer Jonathan Ramael, author of the popular and award-winning travel blog Trot Op!, has published an extensive guide to Eswatini, bringing together his experiences from several visits to the Kingdom. Jonathan’s guide explores why Eswatini deserves far more than a brief stop as part of a wider Southern African itinerary. Combining practical travel advice, personal observations and striking photography, it covers the wildlife experiences of Hlane Royal National Park, Mkhaya Game Reserve and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, alongside the dramatic highland landscapes of Malolotja Nature Reserve and Sibebe Rock.

Backpacker Tours’ Visitor Guide to the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance

The Umhlanga Reed Dance is one of Eswatini’s most important cultural celebrations, offering visitors the opportunity to witness a living tradition and experience the country’s culture at close quarters. Based in Mbabane, Backpacker Tours helps travellers explore Eswatini through guided experiences and tailor-made packages. For those planning to attend Umhlanga, the company can assist with local guides, transport and accommodation, as well as combine the festival with safaris, cultural attractions, hiking adventures and authentic community experiences. 

New Festival Celebrates Eswatini’s Vibrant Coffee Culture

As the Eswatini’s premier Arabica coffee producer, Mabuda Guest Farm, is now inviting travellers, coffee enthusiasts and families to experience the landmark Mabuda Coffee Festival. Settled atop the majestic Lubombo Mountains in Eswatini, family-run Mabuda is not just an accommodation; it is an experience. Nicknamed “Place of Dreams”, this working farm offers a tranquil escape amidst breath-taking scenery, rich farm life and genuine Swazi hospitality and spearheads an exciting chapter in Eswatini’s agri-tourism.

The Africa Rally 2026 Celebrates Record-Breaking Year with Eswatini at the Heart of the Adventure

Eswatini once again played an important role in The Africa Rally in 2026, with Malandela’s in Malkerns hosting one of the event’s Finish Line parties and teams continuing to support important causes within the Kingdom. Bringing together international adventurers, local businesses and community initiatives, the Rally continues to deliver benefits that extend far beyond the road, with Eswatini set to remain part of the adventure again in 2027.

Luju Festival’s First Extended 2-Day Format Drives Economic Growth and Deepens Pan-African Reach

Style, gastronomy and music intersected in a premium sensory showcase of African heritage and innovation at the 8th edition of the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival. As one of Southern Africa’s leading food and fashion events, Luju Festival strengthened its identity as one of the continent’s most impactful economic and cultural showcases, advancing SME growth, cross-border trade and Pan-African collaboration under its founding philosophy, ‘A Return to the African Future’.

Big Game Parks Highlights Nature, Education and Culture this August

Big Game Parks is inviting visitors to discover another side of Eswatini this August, with a programme bringing together conservation, outdoor adventure and one of the Kingdom’s most important cultural celebrations. From a walking experience at Mkhaya Game Reserve to educational visits at Hlane and Mlilwane, alongside accommodation for visitors attending the Umhlanga Reed Dance, there are plenty of ways to experience Eswatini’s natural and cultural heritage.

Melula Travel Highlights New Tourism Developments and Experiences in Eswatini

Melula Travel has released Issue 8 of its Eswatini Travel Guide newsletter, bringing together the latest developments in tourism and hospitality alongside accommodation inspiration, events, practical travel information and useful advice for visitors to the Kingdom. 

Abbey Gate College Students Build New Classroom in Eswatini with Sense Earth

Seventeen students from the UK’s Abbey Gate College officially handed over a new Grade 0 classroom worth E70 000 to the remote Mlindzini community in Eswatini. Visiting through UK-based tour operator Sense Earth, the students raised funds and actively assisted local builders by clearing land, mixing cement and assembling roof frames to deliver the critical early childhood education facility.

Silverstone Lodge: Riverside tranquility in Eswatini’s Pine Valley

Nestled along the banks of the cascading Black Mbuluzi River in Pine Valley, just a short drive from central Mbabane, Silverstone Lodge offers an enchanting retreat where nature’s beauty takes centre stage. Framed by dramatic granite cliffs and verdant vegetation, this boutique lodge is designed to provide guests with a serene escape immersed in the calming sounds of flowing water.

Phumula Guest House: The Ultimate Winter Escape in Eswatini’s Southern Kingdom

When crisp winter winds sweep across the highveld of southern Africa, travellers often seek a sanctuary where warmth, peace and authentic African hospitality converge. Tucked away in the quiet, green hills near Nhlangano in southern Eswatini, Phumula Guest House offers precisely that a peaceful haven designed for crisp morning air, cosy fireside evenings, and soul-restoring relaxation.

Eswatini International Arrivals Up 13.4% in July 2026

The Kingdom of Eswatini recorded 100,554 international visitor arrivals in July 2026, representing a 13.4% increase from the 88,707 arrivals recorded in July 2025. The increase of 11,847 visitors marks the first time in 2026 that monthly international visitor arrivals surpassed the 100,000 mark, reflecting continued positive momentum in inbound travel.

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.