Eswatini Newsletter

January 2026

Discover Eswatini — Africa’s Compact Safari Gem

When renowned publisher, Bradt Guides, recently unveiled their “Best Safaris in Africa”, few travellers would have expected the unassuming Eswatini to feature so prominently. Yet that’s exactly what happened, with the diminutive Kingdom identified as the second safari destination on their curated list. This recognition confirms what many long-time visitors already know: Eswatini isn’t just a destination — it’s a revelation – offering one of Africa’s most intimate, accessible and rewarding safari experiences.

Offers & Events with Big Game Parks

The first quarter of 2026 brings a range of outdoor events designed to encourage exploration, reflection and adventure in the bush, all arranged by Big Game Parks. From January through to March, a whole host of events take place welcoming locals and international participants and spectators.

Sacred Incwala Ceremony celebrated in Eswatini

Eswatini’s most sacred ceremony, the Incwala, recently took place in Eswatini with the ‘Little Incwala’ beginning in December and the 'Big Incwala' in early January. The Incwala is a significant occasion in Eswatini, symbolising unity and cultural identity, and continues to draw both locals and tourists eager to experience the rich traditions of the Kingdom.

Read all all about the two events that make up the Incwala Ceremony below:

Luju 2026 Evolves into a Full Saturday & Sunday Experience – Save The Dates!

2026 will usher in a bold new era for the Standard Bank Luju Food and Lifestyle Festival.

For the very first time, the 8th edition of Luju unfolds across two full days, transforming the festival into a complete weekend experience.

Discover the Best Hiking Destinations in Eswatini

Eswatini, a small kingdom in southern Africa, is a hiker’s paradise. With its diverse landscapes, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Eswatini offers a unique hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts. In this blog, local outdoor adventure specialists, Backpacker Tours explore some of the best hiking destinations in Eswatini, each with its own unique history and attractions.

Manzini Market: A Vibrant Tapestry of Eswatini

Manzini Market, a bustling commercial hub in the heart of Eswatini, offers an authentic and immersive experience for both locals and tourists. Beyond its role as a marketplace, it stands as a cultural epicentre and a significant economic driver. Read all about this iconic and must-see location.

Mbuluzi Game Reserve: The Perfect Family Reset

Nestled in the heart of the Lubombo region, just a convenient 10-minute drive from Simunye, lies Mbuluzi Game Reserve. For decades, this reserve has been a quiet jewel of Eswatini, but recently, it has cemented its status as perhaps the most family-friendly bush destination in the Kingdom. Discover why Mbuluzi Game Reserve is your ultimate escape.

Global Village Guesthouse: A Leading Haven of Comfort and Hospitality in Manzini

Global Village Guesthouse Eswatini continues to position itself as one of the most reliable, comfortable and service-driven hospitality establishments in Manzini. Situated in the serene neighbourhood of Madonsa, the property offers a unique blend of convenience, tranquillity, and warm Eswatini hospitality. Find out what makes it the perfect accommodation and venue for a range of occasions.

Leveraging Strategic Partnerships: Driving Engagement During the Choose Eswatini Campaign

The Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) continues to demonstrate its innovative approach to destination marketing by leveraging strategic partnerships with leading commercial entities, ensuring that tourism promotion delivers tangible economic benefits. During the Choose Eswatini Festive Season Campaign, the ETA collaborated with MTN MoMo Eswatini and Total Energies Eswatini to create a mutually beneficial initiative that not only enhanced consumer engagement but also supported the commercial objectives of its partners.

Full a full breakdown of the Choose Eswatini campaign impact with analysis and statistics, click the button below.

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.